Fuel the Drive: Cen Cal Drive Youth Basketball 2026 Annual Fundraiser

Cen Cal Drive Youth Sports is built on purpose, passion, and community. Founded in 2022 by Greg Williams Jr., the program began with a promise he made to his mother shortly before she passed away: to create something meaningful that would positively impact kids in the community he loves.

Cen Cal Drive was not built in a boardroom. It was built in local gyms, residential driveways and on neighborhood blacktops. Greg saw that athletes in Merced and the Central Valley had talent, but often lacked access, structure, and consistent development. He wanted to build a program where kids are more than just names on a roster, and a place that develops both basketball skills and character.

The name Cen Cal Drive represents who we are and where we come from. “Cen” reflects our core values and Central Valley roots. “Cal” stands for California, our home. “Drive” represents the work ethic we demand and the driveways where many basketball journeys begin.

Today, we welcome players of all skill levels and focus on developing the complete athlete. Our coaches emphasize discipline, accountability, and self-belief, helping athletes succeed on the court and beyond.

Why we’re fundraising

Cen Cal Drive Youth Sports is built on consistency: reliable training, strong coaching, and a program kids can count on. Unlike many seasonal clubs, Cen Cal Drive runs year-round, so our athletes stay consistent, keep developing, and do not lose momentum between seasons.

We are based in Merced, California, and we provide a complete development path through skills training, travel teams, skills development, the Driveway Development Basketball League, and private coaching.

For 2026, we are raising $5,000 to help cover the operational costs that keep everything moving behind the scenes so our athletes can train, grow, and compete.

Your gift helps keep youth sports accessible in our community, especially for families who need a little extra help. We have a lot of low-income families in our program, and this fundraiser helps us keep those kids training year-round so they do not lose their spot because of finances.

What your donation supports

Your donation helps cover essentials like:

• Gym rentals / facility time

• Training equipment & replacements (balls, cones, training tools)

• Program supplies & safety items (first-aid, tape, practice essentials)

• Insurance, admin, and operational costs

• Support for families when needs come up (as able)

Why it matters

Youth sports has a lot of real expenses that most people never see, but those behind-the-scenes costs are what create a safe, structured, consistent experience for kids. When operations are stable, kids get better development and families get a program they can trust.

Cen Cal Drive is more than a basketball program. It is a family committed to building better athletes, stronger character, and a brighter future for our community.

How You Can Help (Donation tiers)

Your generous support can make a tremendous difference in the lives of our young athletes. By contributing to our 2024 Annual Giving Campaign, you help us provide the resources necessary to keep our promise and support our community. Here are the tiers of support and how your donation can make an impact:

• $1,000 - Champion's Circle (Parents/Families/Local Businesses)
  • Description: This gift helps keep Cen Cal Drive running year-round and helps keep youth sports accessible for families who need extra support. Your sponsorship directly supports gym time, equipment, and the day-to-day operational costs that make consistent training possible.

    • As a Champion’s Circle Family Sponsor, you’ll receive:

      • A dedicated thank-you post and story on our social media

      • Your name listed on our Cen Cal Drive website under “Champion’s Circle Supporters” (2026)

      • A short thank-you video from our players/coaches

      • A signed Cen Cal Drive team basketball or framed team photo

      • An invitation to our Champion’s Circle appreciation night - Date TBD

• $500 - Court Builder
  • Description: Contributing at this level allows us to maintain and upgrade our training facilities. Your support helps ensure that our athletes have access to safe, well-equipped, and modern courts. Improved facilities enhance the overall training experience and safety for all participants. 

• $250 - Skill Enhancer
  • Description: Your donation will fund specialized skill clinics designed to elevate the abilities of our young athletes. These clinics focus on various aspects of basketball, including shooting, dribbling, defense, and teamwork. Professional coaches and trainers lead these sessions, providing expert guidance and personalized attention to help each player improve their game. Your support enables us to offer these clinics regularly, benefiting a wide range of participants. 

• $100 - Coach’s Corner
  • Description: This contribution level supports the ongoing education and training of our coaching staff. Quality coaching is vital to the success of our athletes, and your donation helps us provide our coaches with access to advanced training programs, workshops, and certifications. Enhanced coaching skills directly translate to better instruction and mentorship for our young players, fostering their growth both on and off the court. 

• $50 - Uniform Provider
  • Description: Your donation helps cover the cost of uniforms for our players. Uniforms are more than just attire; they instill a sense of pride, belonging, and team unity. By contributing to this fund, you ensure that every player, regardless of their financial situation, can wear the Cen Cal Drive Youth Sports colors with pride. This level of support also includes practice jerseys and essential gear 

• $25 - Supporter Level
  • Description: Every contribution counts, and at this level, your donation helps us purchase essential training equipment such as basketballs, cones, agility ladders, and more. These tools are fundamental to our daily practices and training sessions, enabling our athletes to hone their skills effectively. Your support ensures that we have the necessary resources to provide high-quality training experiences.

Join us on this heartwarming journey of growth, community, and basketball excellence. Let's drive together towards a brighter future, one bounce at a time.

You can also donate any amount that feels right. If you want to make the biggest impact, consider becoming a monthly donor.

Thank you for supporting Cen Cal Drive Youth Sports and believing in what we are building in Merced and the Central Valley. Let’s drive together toward a brighter future, one rep, one practice, and one kid at a time.

Welcome to Cen Cal Drive Youth Sports - Where Promises Become Legends.