About C.A.A.N Inc.
C.A.A.N Inc. is a member-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing essential financial assistance to mixed combat sports athletes facing challenges. Our mission is to empower these athletes by ensuring they have the resources needed to pursue their passion and achieve their aspirations.
Through strategic community engagement and collaboration, we aim to build a robust support network that fosters talent within the combat sports sector. At C.A.A.N Inc., we are committed to ensuring that every athlete has the opportunity to thrive and make a significant impact in their chosen sport.
The C.A.A.N Ethos
Established 2017
Our Mission
"Our mission at C.A.A.N Inc is to empower mixed combat sports athletes by providing essential financial assistance to those in need.
We are committed to fostering a supportive community that champions the growth and success of all athletes, ensuring they have the resources necessary to pursue their passion and achieve their goals."
Established 2017
Our Vision
At our facility, we envision a future where mixed combat sports athletes can thrive in a safe and wellness-focused environment.
Our commitment is to provide state-of-the-art training spaces and resources that prioritize the health and well-being of every competitor. By fostering a culture of safety, respect, and personal growth, we aim to empower athletes to reach their full potential while minimizing risks.
Join us in creating a community where performance and wellness go hand in hand.
Established 2020
Our Commitment
At C.A.A.N Inc, we are unwavering in our commitment to the safety and well-being of our athletes. We prioritize creating a secure environment that fosters growth, development, and excellence in sports.
Our organization is dedicated to supporting our member athletes through comprehensive resources and programs, while continuously promoting education on safety practices. Together We C.A.A.N ensure that every athlete can thrive both in and out of the ring.
We Pledge to...
At C.A.A.N Inc.
01
Utilize athletics as a tool for preventing crime and reducing criminal recidivism.
It has been determined that this mission can be most effectively accomplished by supporting and advocating for professional combat athletes (such as boxers and MMA fighters) and those aspiring to become professional athletes, including but not limited to individuals who are incarcerated, formerly incarcerated, facing legal issues, or have a history of criminal activity, as well as those who are legally at-risk.
02
Leverage athletics to champion social justice for marginalized and oppressed communities through fundraising and other initiatives.
These initiatives will be carried out under the social justice division of C.A.A.N., Inc., known as the Ripple of Hope Project.
C.A.A.N Inc. CEO
Ernest DiStefano is a distinguished former sports agent and a Certified Sports Counselor affiliated with the International Sports Professionals Association (ISPA). His experience includes serving as an Associate Baseball Scout for the Kansas City Royals, Philadelphia Phillies, and the Global Sc Bureau (GSB).
From 2014 to 2017, Mr. DiStefano acted as a manager and training coach for both Boxers and MMA fighters. He is the author of “The Athlete (A Success Guide for Parents, Coaches, and Student-Athletes),” published by Langmarc Publishing in May 2006, and has contributed numerous essays addressing social justice issues within the realm of sports.
Additionally, he possesses over 42 years of professional experience working with criminal offenders. Mr. DiStefano holds three academic degrees, including both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s in Human Resources Management. He has also served as an Adjunct Professor of Sports Management at Wilmington University in Delaware for twelve years and was a member of the Faculty Advisory Board for their Sports Management Program.
Recently, he achieved certification as a Human Rights Consultant at the United States Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights (USIDHR).
Ernest J. DiStefano, M.S.M.
BOARD
OF DIRECTORS
ADVISORY BOARD
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Curt Shockley
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Spencer Dunkley
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Dwayne Saunders
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Andre Buck
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Kamarah Pasley
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Dave Tiberi
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Daniel Masi
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Tonia Priestley
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Steve Wesley
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Dwayne Saunders
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Jacquie Richardson
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Bill Fletcher
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Peter Olney
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Tony Tolbert
ATHLETIC FUNDRAISING COORDINATOR
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Chuck Metzger
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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Zeb Stokes, Board Chair
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Frederick L. Barnes, III: Director At-Large
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Roy Foreman: Director At-Large
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Dade D. Werb, Esq.: Director At-Large
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David Barnes: Director At-Large
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Tonya Lanier: Director At-Large
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Michele Huntley: Director At-Large
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Derrick L Woods: Director At-Large
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Rachel Beck: Director At-Large