2020
It Started With a Meal.
A Thanksgiving food drive during the pandemic revealed a growing need in our community.
Home · About
Our Story
A Message From Our Founder & Director
Welcome to Above & Beyond for Change.
What began as a Thanksgiving food drive in 2020 has grown into a network of programs that support students, families, and schools throughout Central Florida. Along the way, we have witnessed the power of community and the difference that can be made when people come together to serve others.
We believe every child deserves access to opportunities that inspire confidence, expand possibilities, and build a brighter future. Through educational enrichment, mentorship, athletics, cultural engagement, family support, and community partnerships, we work to remove barriers and create pathways to success.
Our mission is not simply to provide assistance. It is to empower students, strengthen families, and build communities where every person feels valued, supported, and capable of achieving their full potential.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, we can continue creating opportunities that help students and families learn, grow, belong, and thrive.
Michelle SanchezFounder
Dr. Nisha Phillip-MalahooDirector
Michelle SanchezFounder
Our Mission
The mission of Above & Beyond for Change is to harness the collective power of our community to inspire, educate and empower underserved youth, strengthening their journey in attaining equality, fulfilling their potential, and becoming leaders who will change the world.
01
It Starts With People
Every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and valued. We serve students and families by creating opportunities that build confidence, connection, and possibility.
02
We Open Doors
From STEM and mentorship to athletics, cultural celebrations, and family support, our programs help students discover what is possible for their future.
03
We Build Stronger Communities
When families have access to resources, opportunities, and people who believe in them, lasting change becomes possible for generations to come.
Impact at a Glance
1,000+
Students & Families Served
25+
Community & Corporate Partners
$75K+
Invested in Opportunity
Cumulative totals since our founding in 2020.
Our Journey
Chapter 1: Meeting Needs
2020 - 2021
2020
2021
Opening Doors.
The 101 Bikes initiative helped students get to school more safely and reliably.
Chapter 2: Building Community
2022 - 2023
2022
Building Community.
Cultural Day created a space for families to celebrate and connect with one another.
2023
Growing Together.
What started as a school event became one of our largest community celebrations.
Chapter 3: Creating Opportunities
2024 - 2025
2024
Learning Beyond the Classroom.
STEM Club and Karate gave students new ways to learn, grow, and build confidence.
2025
More Than a Game.
Basketball became a place where students could find mentors, teamwork, and belonging.
Chapter 4: Growing Our Impact
2026 and Beyond
2026
Still Growing.
What began with a Thanksgiving food drive has grown into a network of programs serving students, families, and schools throughout our community.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Founder
Michelle Sanchez
Michelle Sanchez founded Above & Beyond for Change on a simple belief: every child deserves opportunities to learn, grow and succeed, regardless of their circumstances. What began as a desire to support local students and families has grown into a network of programs, partnerships and volunteers creating meaningful change across Central Florida.
Executive Director
Dr. Nisha Phillip-Malahoo
Dr. Nisha Phillip-Malahoo serves as Executive Director of Above & Beyond for Change, leading programs and partnerships that support students and families throughout Central Florida. An educator and community advocate, she has been recognized by News 6, Spectrum News 13, FOX 35, and WESH 2 as an Everyday Hero, A+ Teacher, Community Champion, and Teacher of the Week. She was also named a 2026 Toyota Family Teacher of the Year Finalist for her work in strengthening family engagement and expanding opportunities for students and families.