
Game Changer, a nonprofit organization designed to bring together community members, law enforcement, and civic leaders, is hosting a focus group discussion in Pasadena on Aug. 8. The event is scheduled from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in Room 230 at the ArtCenter College of Design’s South Campus, located at 950 S. Raymond Ave.
Game Changer, officially known as Shep-Ty Inc. and also called Embrace, facilitates moderated focus groups to address community problems and devise solutions. The focus groups are open to individuals aged 13 and above, with minors requiring parental waivers to participate. Adults have the option to complete a waiver.
Focus group topics include mental health, respect, misconceptions, trust, communication, use of force, training, de-escalation, traffic stops, and media. Participants are required to complete pre- and post-event surveys measuring their perceptions of law enforcement-community relations, as well as a follow-up survey 5 weeks after the event.
Dr. Aaron Bruce, Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer at ArtCenter College of Design, serves as Game Changer’s Board Chair. He is also an active member of several diversity-focused organizations and a certified diversity trainer.
The Pasadena Police Department is a partner agency in this initiative, which aims to foster understanding between law enforcement and residents.
According to Game Changer, a data analysis conducted by the San Diego State University Institute of Public Health shows that the program is effective in changing participants’ perceptions and behaviors. The analysis also revealed that the model is successful in educating participants about community-police relations.
The event follows a structured itinerary, with participants arriving three hours before the start time to complete pre-event surveys. A moderated focus group discussion then takes place over 2.5 hours, followed by post-event surveys. Dinner and event tickets are provided to participants.
Game Changer’s model typically includes attendance at a sporting or entertainment event after the focus group, allowing participants to spend social time together. The organization collaborates with major sports leagues and artists to host focus groups at their venues, though specific details for such an event in Pasadena were not provided.
Headquartered in Inglewood, Game Changer emphasizes the importance of these focus groups in creating a safe space for community members, law enforcement, elected officials, and members of the judicial system to discuss issues. Game Changer’s ultimate goals include improving education about one another, changing perceptions, and ultimately leading to changes in behavior and outcomes.
To attend the Aug. 8 event, RSVP by email to celina@gamechanger1.org. Attendance is on a first-come, first-served basis.