Our Story

Our Beginning

Competitive Champions Collective (formerly Competitive Champions of the Carolinas) was born from a shared dream. In the fall of 2018, three friends — JoAnn Blackwood, Ashley Firth, and Victoria Putnam — envisioned a nonprofit that would open doors for children and youth with competitive passions in dance, sports, cheer, and the performing arts.

They believed every child deserves the chance to train, compete, and grow — regardless of financial circumstances. With countless hours of dedication and pure love, 3C officially launched on October 1, 2018, and quickly began to thrive.

Our Mission

3C empowers young athletes and performers — our Champions — by providing financial support, community connection, and opportunities to pursue their dreams. We exist so that no child’s potential is limited by financial barriers.

Our Growth

As 3C expanded, so did the need for strong leadership. Over the years, our Board of Directors has grown to reflect the organization’s increasing reach across North and South Carolina.

2019 Board of Directors

• JoAnn Blackwood, President

• Stacey Engelbrecht, Vice President

• Victoria Putnam, Secretary

• Tami Pettigrew, Treasurer

• Kim Nearpass, Volunteer Liaison

Each leader brought unique strengths that helped 3C flourish during its early years.

Expansion and Regional Growth (2021–2023)

With rapid growth in volunteers and fundraising events — and expansion into other regions — the Board evolved to support a broader footprint. By 2022, 3C had established five official regions:

• Charlotte

• Triad

• Raleigh/Durham

• Greenville

• Charleston

The Advisory Committee also expanded, welcoming dedicated leaders who continue to guide 3C’s mission.

Today’s Leadership since 2024

3C’s current Board reflects the organization’s continued growth and commitment to excellence:

• JoAnn Blackwood, President

• Marissa McNamara, Vice President of Operations

• Brigitte Pitts, Secretary / Operations / Volunteers

• Mandi Martinez, Vice President of Volunteers

• Tami Pettigrew, Vice President of Finance

• Kim Nearpass, Finance Team

Advisory Committee:
• Paula Imes • Crystal Robinson • Jackie Knapp • Stephanie Rikard • Davis Allred •Lakesha McNeil • Laura Fongheiser

Regional Schedulers:

•Marissa Lewis • Jennifer Scarborough • Denise Medaglia• Renae Guill • David Conrad •

Our Impact

By 2024, 3C’s reach had expanded significantly, supporting:

• 152 Approved Groups

• 993 Champions

• 1,086 Volunteers

• 7 Regions

This growth reflects the passion of our families, the dedication of our volunteers, and the strength of our mission.

And the momentum didn’t stop there. By the end of 2025, 3C had more than doubled its impact:

• 272 Approved Groups

• 1,931 Champions

• 2,599 Volunteers

• 8 Regions

These numbers represent more than participation — they represent dreams supported, opportunities created, and communities strengthened.

Our Vision

We believe in a future where every child with passion, talent, and determination has the opportunity to shine. Through community support, volunteer leadership, and unwavering commitment by our Board of Directors to our Champions, 3C continues to build pathways to possibility.

Our Vision