About Coach Ken Carter

When legendary high school basketball coach Ken Carter locked his undefeated, state playoff–bound team out of the gym to focus on academics, he sent a message that echoed far beyond the basketball court: character and education matter more than talent alone. His bold stand inspired the hit film Coach Carter, starring Samuel L. Jackson, and became a national symbol of accountability, integrity, and leadership.

Before taking the helm at Richmond High School (CA) in 1997, Coach Carter was already a successful businessman. But he saw a greater calling—to help students rise above failing grades, drugs, and low expectations. Within two years, he transformed the program by setting firm standards: respect others, stay drug-free, participate in class, dress for success, and maintain at least a 2.3 GPA. When players fell short, he benched the entire undefeated team—including his own son—until they earned their success in the classroom. The result? Every player raised their grades, many went on to college, and all learned that true victory starts with discipline and belief in oneself.

Today, Coach Carter continues to inspire audiences worldwide as a speaker, mentor, and founder of the Coach Ken Carter Foundation, which provides education and leadership opportunities for young people. His story is a powerful reminder that greatness isn’t just about winning—it’s about lifting others and never giving up on your dreams.

Don’t miss this chance to meet and hear Coach Carter speak at our Spotlight fundraiser supporting Family & Children’s Center’s child abuse prevention services on April 16, 2026!

About Family & Children's Center

Family & Children’s Center annually serves families in St. Joseph County, Indiana by carrying out an array of evidence-based early childhood parenting education programs at no cost to the participants.

Healthy Families: High-impact home visits for 250 new and expectant parents.
The Brain Train: 1:1 and small group guided-play experiences for parents and children from birth to age five.
Tech Crossing: Helpful, innovative tech tools for toddlers and parents in monthly 1:1 sessions.

Family & Children’s Center programs boast a 99%+ free from child abuse and neglect rate.

Tickets

Patron Ticket $300/Each
- (1) Seat for Fine Dining Meal by Copper Rock Steakhouse
- Wine Service During Dinner
- Premium Open Bar from 6:00-9:00 P.M.
- Tax-Deductible Donation

Sponsorship Options

~~Presenting Sponsor SOLD OUT~~
- Tax-Deductible Donation
- 30 Seats w/ Wine Dinner
- Promo Recognition: Exclusive - Only one available w/ presented by named event; all marketing materials, premium event day and stage promos, and more!
- V.I.P Photo Opportunity w/ Coach Carter for all guests

Resilience Sponsor $10,000
- Tax-Deductible Donation
- 20 Seats w/ Wine Dinner
- Promo Recognition: All marketing materials, premium event day and stage promos, post-event promos
- V.I.P Photo Opportunity w/ Coach Carter for all guests

Believe Sponsor $5,000
- Tax-Deductible Donation
- 10 Seats w/ Wine Dinner
- Promo Recognition: All marketing materials, event day and stage promos, post-event promos
- V.I.P Photo Opportunity w/ Coach Carter for all guests

Hope Sponsor $2,500
- Tax-Deductible Donation
- 6 Seats w/ Wine Dinner
- Promo Recognition: All marketing materials, event day and stage promos

Advocacy Sponsor $1,500
- Tax-Deductible Donation
- 4 Seats w/ Wine Dinner
- Promo Recognition: All marketing materials and event day promos

Benefactor $500
- Tax-Deductible Donation
- Not Attending; No Tickets Included
- Promo Recognition: E-mail marketing, event day slideshow, event day program

2026 FCC Spotlight Dinner feat. Coach Ken Carter

Presented by Gurley Leep Automotive Group