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“Something For The Brothers”, host, Pastor CJ Blair takes on the St. Francis Story, “It’s Not A Game”.  St. Francis, is the oldest African American Educational Institution in the heart of the hood in Baltimore City.  In fact, the school sits right across the street from a State Prison.

THE STORY

This documentary is a tale of human responsibility to “reach back” and empower others beyond their limitations and means.  Seen in this documentary is the ultimate story of compassion and sacrifice by people from all walks of life.

This story captures their tangible acts of compassion and kindness as they work to encourage a special and unique, group of youth from the impoverished inner cities of America and the villages of Africa.  We document the gradual, astonishing rise of what started as a dismal, struggling football program all the way to its success while exhibiting its inspiring moniker, “success is for those who are willing to sacrifice for it.”

Woven into the powerful current radiating from this larger than life football story is not only the personal triumphs of the coach and team, but also the rich history of St. Francis Academy.  Masked as an orphanage in the 1800s for young girls, St. Franics Academy was founded by Mother Mary Lang, a Haitian refugee who believed anyone could succeed. St. Francis is recognized as the first and oldest African-American educational institution established in the United States. Believing that education was essential to the success of any person, Mother Lang sacrificed much to ensure the children of slaves received an education giving them a chance to excel in life. It is that spirit of sacrifice and determination that has fueled St. Francis Academy for over 200 years! It is, also, the spirit of commitment and devotion that has, now, ignited its football program to triumph as one of the most competitive programs in the Nation.

This documentary follows the rise of youth once on the threshhold of prison, delinquency, and death to the campuses of some of our Nation’s most prestigious universities.  It is truly an inspiring film, one that will motivate many beyond mediocrity and propel countless others towards their purpose.

Join us as we present “It’s NOT a Game”…a heroin tale of Winning Against All Oddds!

WHY I WANT TO TELL THIS STORY

To be honest, my first thought was to correct the opinion of the masses who believe everything in the inner cities and urban communities of America is bad.  Because we see and hear, all too often the negative taking place within these areas, I wanted to show the world that there are in fact some “diamonds in the rough” coming out of the caves of darkness.  But the story became more than that…

I witnessed these young boys transform before my eyes.  I know their stories, they come from unspeakable odds.  Despite extreme adversity, they win championships, excel in class, and inspire everyone they encounter.  I related to them because like them, I’ve beat the odds. But this is their story, and the world needs to hear it!

We need the hope. We need the encouragement. Most of all, we need the reminder that we can and will overcome.

Click here to pledge your support:  It’s Not A Game!