A Mobile-based mentoring charity is preparing for its biggest fundraiser of the year, drawing one of college football’s most recognizable names to the University of South Alabama’s Mitchell Center this month.
Team Focus, a nonprofit that pairs fatherless boys ages 10 to 18 with adult mentors and leadership programming, is holding the eighth annual edition of its signature dinner event. The evening is built around a keynote address from Alabama head football coach Nick Saban, who has appeared at the event for years to support the organization’s mission.
The nonprofit was founded by longtime sports commentator Mike Gottfried, who has said the program aims to give young men without a father figure consistent guidance, mentorship and a sense of community they might otherwise be missing.
This year’s gathering starts in the early evening with dinner, followed by remarks from Saban and other guests. Author and motivational speaker Andy Andrews, known for books that blend storytelling with practical life lessons, is scheduled to appear alongside former Alabama running back Bobby Humphrey, who went on to play in the NFL. Both are set to receive an honor recognizing individuals who exemplify the event’s “Champion of Life” theme.
Organizers describe the dinner as the organization’s sole major fundraiser each year, meaning ticket sales and sponsorships collected during the event fund much of Team Focus’s mentoring work for the months that follow. Individual tickets and table packages are available, with larger sponsorship tiers offering donors the chance to meet Saban directly.
The event’s location at the University of South Alabama underscores the strong local ties between the charity and the Mobile community, where Team Focus has built relationships with schools, mentors and volunteer families over its history.
Those interested in attending or supporting the program can find ticket information through the organization’s website or by calling its Mobile office. Organizers say proceeds go directly toward mentoring services, leadership retreats and ongoing support for the young men in the program.