I’ve seen first hand how basketball can change lives. Sometimes, as adults, we forget how much of an impact and influence a coach can have on a kid. You have an unbelievable power to positively influence or change the direction of a kid’s life. All because they love a simple game of putting a ball through a hoop. One of my mentors, Bill Peterson, Special Assistant with the Dallas Mavericks, always says, “While teachers are extremely important, kids rarely remember them, but they always remember their coaches.”
I’ve seen high school freshman with crazy NBA potential, never play after their freshman year because of issues off the court. I’ve also seen kids use basketball, work extremely hard both on the court and in the classroom, to make it out of the wrath of the inner-city, earn a scholarship and pursue a degree. Without a support system, at-risk kids are more likely to make unhealthy lifestyle choices, affecting chances of success and ultimately the future of their community.
For those of you who follow what we do closely you’ve probably noticed we have not been posting a lot of videos or blogs lately. About 18 months ago I was presented with an opportunity to co-found an organization, DRIVE Milwaukee, with two amazing people, that has taken up a tremendous amount of time, and what most would call, extreme financial sacrifice. But, this organization will make significant impact on an individual’s life – using basketball as the vehicle and I’m happy with the sacrifices I’ve made.
I know what you are thinking – we do that already with Mike Lee Basketball, and as a coach or parent, you probably do too. With DRIVE, we decided to think different. Instead of trying to reach thousands of kids we wanted to see how deep we could reach with a select group. Milwaukee, where I live, is notorious for talented players who never make it out of the city. Only because of lack of support – not potential.
I truly believe that many kids don’t make it as far as their potential could take them, not because of work ethic, but that they don’t truly understand what it takes, and a support system to guide them. The problem is not that kids dream too big or are unrealistic. The problem is there’s a disconnect between what they believe it takes and what it actually does require to achieve their dream.
DRIVE Milwaukee
That’s where DRIVE Milwaukee comes in. We’ve developed a comprehensive basketball and personal development experience to make a significant impact on the individual player. Providing inner-city, at-risk youth, those with the drive and determination to succeed, the same access and opportunity the pros get. Academic support, personal development, basketball skills, and performance training. And more. All of our programs have been designed to attack seven common risk factors facing inner-city kids. Whatever the participant needs to accomplish his goals we will provide through direct and in-direct services, and collaboration with other individual and organizations, including nonprofits.
The goal? Do whatever it takes to make significant, lasting changes in the lives of these youth, and our city. From graduating high school to earning a degree – and playing NCAA basketball while they’re at it – to potentially playing in the NBA. And, of course, we ask that they give back to Milwaukee – their roots, their home – and inspire the next generation of youth.
In return, we require 100% commitment to all program areas. There are no handouts. Every DRIVE participant is required to stay in school, stay out of trouble, and engage in community service while they participate in our programs. We truly believe there is a direct correlation between social responsibility, giving back and personal development.
How are we doing it? Our team is comprised of athletes, students, coaches, teachers. Professionals, entrepreneurs, amateurs, and the people right next door. Each member of our team brings unique talents, an important voice, vital contributions, and insightful perspectives that help us every day to reach, grow, and thrive. We’re a small, dedicated group wanting to do big things for inner-city youth because we don’t believe in anything less than big.
While we’ve been running programs over the past 18 months, funded out of our own pocket and time, DRIVE Milwaukee has publicly launched and we are asking for your support. What’s in it for you? Well, honestly, nothing. Unless you want to know that you were one of the first people help make a significant impact on someone’s life. Someone that has the potential to be an elite player, great student and charismatic leader — but only lacks the support. There’s nothing in it for you, unless you want to feel tremendous pride, knowing that you were a catalyst in starting a movement. A movement to save and change lives using something we all love. Basketball.
Our ability to impact lives depends on you.
If you’d like to make a tax-deductible contribution please visit our donation page today. To learn more about our business model, programs and eligibility, funding strategies, and the various ways you can get involved, contact me directly at mike.lee@drivemke.org