When you look at this picture, you might just see a man in a red shirt—but I hope you see more than that. My name is Tyrone Cannedy, and I’m the founder of Time For Change, a nonprofit built on the belief that our young people deserve better—and I’m here to help make that happen.

I do this work because I’ve lived the struggle. I know what it feels like to be overlooked, counted out, and expected to fail. But I also know what it means to rise above that and become the leader you needed when you were younger. That’s what I strive to be every single day—for every young person who walks through our doors.

At Time For Change, we focus on mentorship, leadership development, life skills, and educational enrichment. We operate out of the Erwin Center in Gastonia, NC, and we serve youth who are full of potential but lacking the opportunities and guidance they deserve. Whether it's during our summer program, a one-on-one conversation, or a volunteer event in the community—I’m hands-on, showing up, and staying committed.

This isn’t a 9-to-5 for me. It’s a calling. It’s personal. The same challenges these kids are facing—I faced too. So when I sit down with them, it’s not from a place of authority, it’s from a place of understanding. And when I tell them they can succeed, it’s not just words

-I’m living proof.

In this picture, I’m wearing red—a color that represents strength, urgency, and action. Because that’s what this work is. Urgent. Our youth can’t wait. They need support now. And I’m here, every day, doing my part to meet that need.

I’m proud of the growth I’ve seen—young men and women stepping into leadership roles, improving in school, making better choices, and learning to believe in themselves. But we’re just getting started. My goal is to build up future leaders, empower their voices, and help them understand their worth before the world tells them otherwise.

So if you’re reading this and wondering how you can help—partner with us. Support this mission. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, your support means everything.

Because for me, this isn’t just a program. It’s my purpose.

Tyrone Cannedy
Founder & Mentor
Time For Change | Gastonia, NC