Inspiring Hope,
Building Resilience

THE TC3 MEMORIAL FOUNDATION IS A MOVEMENT

THE TC3 MEMORIAL FOUNDATION IS A MOVEMENT

We transcend with a promise:

To see, support, and stand with student-athletes—through every piece of their story.

The student-athlete experience is anything but simple.

It’s layered. It’s emotional. It’s resilient.

Our logo (The TC3 Logo) was intentionally designed to reflect the complexity of the student-athlete journey—from the outside pressures and internal battles to the quiet victories and unseen strength.

While it represents fragmentation, it also speaks to the resilience, depth, and the process of becoming whole.

Our Story

The TC3 Foundation was established to honor the life and legacy of Tamani Carter—a passionate student-athlete with a love for music, sports, and the well-being of those around him. In his memory, we are dedicated to reshaping the conversation around mental wellness for student-athletes.

The name “TC3” represents his initials (Tamani Carter – TC) and the jersey number he proudly wore—3.

Our Approach

  • 1. Fundraising Initiatives

    We host dynamic, community-focused events—such as Car Shows, Golf Outings, and Night Runs—to generate resources and support for organizations at the forefront of mental wellness programs for student athletes.

  • 2. Advocacy & Research

    We drive greater awareness around the mental health needs of young athletes by conducting research, collecting data through events and trainings, and championing innovative practices.

  • 3. Resources

    We actively connect student athletes and their families to vital information and agencies, guiding them on their journey to holistic well-being.

Our comprehensive approach ensures we address student-athlete mental health from multiple angles - creating sustainable funding streams, advancing the knowledge base through research, and implementing practical support systems that reach athletes where they are.

The Need for Action: Mental Health Challenges

  • Widespread Concern

    Over 90% of youth aged 13-24 worry about mental health but lack resources. Most teens report symptoms go untreated, with only 1 in 5 receiving appropriate support from qualified mental health professionals.

  • Digital Media Impact

    Smartphones and social media linked to increased isolation and mental health issues. Studies show teens spending 5+ hours daily on screens experience 71% higher psychological distress rates compared to those with limited screen time.

  • Gender Disparity

    Young women especially affected by declining well-being, with reported depression rates 3x higher than male counterparts.

  • Social Academic Pressure

    High-stakes testing and college admission competition create unprecedented stress levels among youth, with 61% reporting media comparison and cyber harassment contribute significantly to this disparity. overwhelming anxiety about academic performance and prospects.

  • Pandemic Aftermath

    COVID-19 exacerbated existing challenges, with 1 in 2 adolescents reporting worsened mental health conditions following isolation periods and disrupted routines. Recovery continues to be a significant challenge for many youths.

Student-athletes face unique mental health challenges due to the pressures of balancing academics and athletics. Key statistics highlighting these challenges include:

These statistics highlight the hidden mental health crisis within athletic communities. The pressure to perform, fear of losing scholarships, physical injuries, and identity struggles all contribute to these concerning trends.

Despite these challenges, only 10% of student-athletes seek help for mental health concerns, compared to 30% of non-athlete students, pointing to persistent stigma and lack of specialized support systems in athletic departments.

Today's student-athletes face unique pressures balancing academic demands with competitive sports, often leading to significant mental health concerns that go unaddressed in traditional athletic programs.