UNL News Article
Meet the Team
Learn more about the faces behind EGC!
Executive Director
Malachi Hopkins
I started Everybody Gets a Chance because I was once a kid who knew what it felt like to go without. At the same time, I was blessed to grow up surrounded by community organizations and mentors who showed me there was more out there, especially through sports. That guidance changed my life. What gives me passion now is knowing I’m creating something I wish I had growing up. I want to give kids not just opportunities, but someone they can look up to, especially as a minority. I’ve been through real adversity, and I want them to see that and understand they can get through anything. No matter where they come from, they can achieve whatever they put their mind to, in sports or in life.
Omaha Program Coordinator
Tre'on Jones
"I joined EGC because I come from a community where opportunities weren’t always equal but I’ve seen what happens when someone is finally given a real chance and support behind it. This mission is bigger than sports it’s about building discipline, confidence, and a mindset that carries young people forward in life. No matter the neighborhood or background, every kid deserves to feel seen, valued, and capable of more. I’m proud to be part of something that’s opening doors and changing lives, one opportunity at a time."
Vice President
Seth Reopke
"I joined EGC because their cause is personal to me and I believe in their impactful solution for youth. Their programs focus on improving physical fitness and building confidence to empower kids for their future."
Program Director
CJ Lilienkamp
"I found my passion for mentorship and community involvement through my experiences as a football player of the University of Nebraska Linclon. Having seen firsthand how sports can shape young athletes both on and off the field, I was drawn to EGC and its mission to support youth through athletics. Inspired by the opportunity to give back, I joined the organization to help mentor and coach the next generation, using my own experiences to guide and inspire young athletes."
Development Director
Bethany Jones
With a long background in education, she has always been passionate about supporting kids beyond just academics. She believes in helping students grow as individuals and creating spaces where they feel encouraged, valued, and set up for success.
Marketing, Outreach & Growth Partner
EJ Miller & Asher Fenton-Young
"We believe real growth starts with people and the communities around them. Support, opportunity, and strong environments are what shape outcomes, and that’s exactly what EGC stands for.
We work with EGC because the mission is real. It’s about creating access, building discipline, and giving young people a chance to grow into something bigger. That aligns with how we approach everything we do.
Our role is to help expand that impact. Through strategy, content, and systems, we make sure the message reaches further, connects deeper, and continues to create opportunities for the next generation."
Lincoln Program coordinator
Malou Malou
"Every kid has had that dream of being a professional athlete, myself included. Sports create and help teach life lessons such as teamwork, and leadership while also creating life long bonds. When Malachi first spoke to me of this idea of EGC I was all for it. Being a role model/ mentor to the athletes, while also giving back to the community."
Board Member
Fatima Rivera
"I decided to join EGC because I always knew Malachi would do great things for the community. I know how important it is for him to give back to our youth. Malachi inspires other young men like himself to be part of some extraordinary. I am blessed to help in any capacity help EGC grow."
Board Member
Denison Salsbury
I joined Everybody Gets a Chance because I grew up seeing how limited resources and lack of access can quietly close doors for kids before they ever get a real shot. I didn’t always have the equipment, opportunities, or connections I wanted, and that experience shapes how I show up now. I’ve been inspired by the leadership and commitment of those who built EGC from the beginning, and I wanted to be part of something meaningful and lasting. My role focuses on community outreach, building relationships, and connecting people and resources to create real opportunities for kids. At my core, my goal is simple: to leave the world better than the one I stepped into.
Treasurer