Our Approach

The Stafford Boxing Club Mentoring Program is a dynamic initiative that skillfully intertwines rigorous boxing training with purposeful group sessions, aiming to engage at-risk youth in meaningful and impactful ways. This multifaceted program provides not only engaging activities but also transformative opportunities for personal development, all rooted in the discipline and philosophy of boxing. We have identified ten key attributes of boxing that play a vital role in preventing violence and fostering positive behaviors among participants.

Our program is thoughtfully designed to empower youth through the following principles:

Building a Respected Identity: By encouraging young individuals to embrace a new identity that commands respect, we harness boxing’s esteemed status within their communities. This shift in identity serves as a powerful catalyst for positive transformation, motivating participants to strive for a better version of themselves.
Creating a Safe Space for Expression: We prioritize establishing a nurturing and secure environment where youth can express their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. In this safe space, their ideas are genuinely heard and respected, and constructive challenges are presented to promote healthy debate, open communication, and enhanced self-awareness.
Instilling Discipline: The structured nature of boxing naturally lends itself to teaching discipline. Through consistent and clear training regimens, youth learn the importance of self-control, resilience, and the ability to confront and overcome challenges in their lives, instilling a sense of accountability that extends beyond the ring.
Applying Real-Life Defense Strategies: Our innovative "Spiritual Gloves" program teaches participants valuable defense techniques that act as metaphors for navigating real-world situations safely and effectively. This approach empowers youth to make thoughtful decisions rather than reacting impulsively, equipping them with skills to manage conflict constructively.
Developing Patience and Impulse Control: The sport of boxing demands meticulous attention and strategic planning, fostering essential qualities like patience and impulse control. Participants learn to pause and think critically, skills that prove invaluable both inside the boxing ring and in everyday life scenarios.
Enhancing Focus: Engaging in boxing requires a high level of concentration and mental sharpness. By honing their focus, participants not only improve their performance in the sport but also acquire attention to detail that benefits them academically and socially.
Inspiring Commitment and Purpose: Our program aims to instill an unwavering sense of commitment and purpose in every participant. Through consistent engagement and participation, youth begin to align with the program's overarching goals, cultivating a strong sense of direction and motivation for their futures.
Promoting Respect and Sportsmanship: Integral to the boxing experience is the teaching of respect and sportsmanship. Participants learn the importance of these values through rituals such as touching gloves and embracing their opponents, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and positive interaction in competitive environments.
Offering a Physical Outlet for Stress: Boxing serves as an invigorating and healthy physical outlet for the stress and emotions youth may experience. By channeling their feelings into vigorous activity, participants discover constructive ways to cope with challenges and frustrations, leading to enhanced emotional well-being.
Fostering Social Support Networks: The program creates a community of mutual support, encouraging youth to forge strong bonds with peers who share positive values. This network of support acts as a foundation for personal growth and development, promoting a sense of belonging and collective progress.

Through this holistic and comprehensive approach, the Stafford Boxing Club Mentoring Program aspires to equip at-risk youth with the necessary tools and skills to transform their lives, ultimately paving the way for brighter, more hopeful futures.

Our Mission

Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Born and raised in the picturesque expanse of Westchester County, New York, Sheila Danae Stafford unearthed her inner strength at a young age, shaping her resilience against life's trials. After relocating to the vibrant city of Atlanta, Georgia, Sheila encountered a series of formidable challenges, from navigating unhealthy relationships to enduring personal turmoil. However, in the midst of this adversity, she discovered her life-altering passion: boxing—a sport that not only filled a significant void in her life but also became a beacon of hope and transformation.

It was the electrifying presence of Laila Ali in the ring that ignited Sheila's interest in boxing, sparking a fire within her to embrace the sport wholeheartedly. With unwavering determination, Sheila dedicated herself to mastering the discipline and intricate strategies that boxing entails, skillfully channeling her anger and frustrations into something empowering and constructive.

Driven by her desire to create a positive impact, Sheila co-founded Stafford Boxing Club, Inc., a nonprofit organization devoted to uplifting others through the very sport that transformed her own existence. Through this initiative, she aims to extend the life-changing benefits of boxing to those around her, fostering resilience and strength in the community.

In the Spring of 2022, Sheila proudly graduated from Georgia State University, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Sports Administration along with a minor in Entrepreneurship. Her journey stands as a powerful testament to the indomitable nature of resilience, focus, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams. Sheila Stafford is not just fighting for herself; she is championing a legacy that empowers others to face their adversities and emerge victorious.

Empowering Leaders

Fostering the development of champions and leaders by transforming lives through the discipline of boxing.

Empowering Youth: Building Champions Inside and Outside the Ring

At the heart of our mission is the commitment to nurturing young individuals into champions not only in the boxing ring but in life. Our comprehensive program combines rigorous boxing training with structured mentorship, aiming to equip youth with essential life skills and foster their personal growth.

Comprehensive Boxing Training:

Our boxing training program is designed to do more than just teach the fundamentals of the sport. We focus on developing discipline, resilience, and physical fitness. Through a carefully structured regimen, participants learn the technical skills of boxing, including footwork, defensive strategies, and offensive techniques. Our experienced coaches provide personalized guidance, ensuring that each participant progresses at their own pace while pushing their limits.

Structured Mentorship Programs:

Mentorship is a cornerstone of our initiative. We connect youth with mentors who serve as role models and advisors, offering support and guidance. These mentors help participants set and achieve personal goals, navigate challenges, and build confidence. Through regular workshops and one-on-one sessions, mentors provide insights into career planning, education, and personal development, empowering youth to envision and work towards a successful future.

Promoting Life Skills:

Our programs emphasize the development of crucial life skills such as leadership, teamwork, communication, and time management. Participants engage in activities that foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, preparing them to handle various situations both inside and outside the ring. By participating in community service projects and group challenges, they learn the value of collaboration and giving back.

Facilitating Personal Development:

We believe in the holistic development of each individual. Our approach includes workshops on emotional intelligence, stress management, and goal setting, helping youths build self-awareness and emotional resilience. Through these initiatives, participants gain a deeper understanding of their strengths and areas for growth, empowering them to make informed decisions and pursue their ambitions confidently.

By integrating sports training with personal and professional development, we aim to create a supportive environment where youth can thrive, transforming potential into achievement and dreams into reality.

Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer

Furquan R. Stafford's life exemplifies resilience, vision, and determination. Born on July 6 in an environment characterized by economic challenges and social constraints, Stafford's journey from adversity to achievement is profoundly inspiring. His upbringing in foster homes and residential treatment facilities exposed him to neglect and both mental and emotional abuse. Nevertheless, these experiences cultivated within him an unyielding ambition to transcend his circumstances and create a meaningful impact on society.

On May 24, 2011, Stafford received recognition from the U.S. House of Representatives for his contributions to Georgia and his pioneering work in the field of plasma medicine. His initiatives, inspired by medical trailblazers such as Dr. Charles R. Drew, have positioned him as a leader and innovator in this domain.

In addition to his achievements as an entrepreneur, Stafford is a devoted mentor. As the co-founder of The Stafford Boxing Club mentoring program and the creator of “Spiritual Gloves,” he empowers youth to pursue their aspirations with discipline and focus. His foundational belief in the significance of mental toughness, derived from his admiration for Cus D'Amato, underscores his dedication to personal and community development.

Furquan R. Stafford's journey serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating how perseverance, vision, and a commitment to uplifting others can culminate in extraordinary success. His narrative inspires numerous individuals to confront their challenges and strive for their dreams with courage and resolve.

Stafford is deeply invested in community engagement, utilizing his platform to educate and inspire young people. His role as a keynote speaker at events such as the Atlanta 100 Black Men, Inc. and McDonald's youth seminar signifies his commitment to mentorship and leadership advancement. Stafford’s capacity to connect with diverse audiences and articulate his experiences fosters a sense of hope and possibility among listeners.

Through his initiatives, Stafford empowers individuals to navigate systemic barriers and realize their full potential. By emphasizing mental toughness and discipline—principles inspired by Cus D'Amato, the inventor of the peek-a-boo boxing style—he equips young leaders with the essential tools to pursue success and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Feel free to reach out to us today for more information or assistance!

We invite you to engage with us to gain further insights into our programs and to explore ways in which you can support at-risk youth through boxing and mentorship initiatives.

Contact

1-404-902-3824

Support

contact@staffordboxingclub.org

Our site upcoming

Join us as we strive to empower young individuals through the transformative sport of boxing and dedicated mentorship. Our supportive community fosters an environment centered on personal growth, resilience, and the development of life skills. Through engaging training sessions and meaningful guidance, we aim to inspire youth to overcome challenges and build a bright future.