iPlay iLead
Academy
iPlay iLead is a year-round youth program designed to help young people grow both on and off the court. We create a safe, positive environment where youth can build confidence, develop life skills, and learn how to make positive choices.
Through empowerment workshops, mentorship, physical education, sports, and hands-on activities, participants learn important skills such as leadership, teamwork, communication, respect, responsibility, and self-confidence.
209
Youth Participants
3
Officer Mentors
iPlay iLead was founded in 2017 in Watts, California, with a simple but powerful vision: create a safe space where young people could learn, grow, and be supported by caring mentors.
What began as an after-school program using basketball as the hook quickly became much more than a sports program. Basketball created the opportunity to bring youth together, build relationships, and engage them in an environment where they could learn important life skills, leadership skills, and personal development.
Through mentorship, positive relationships, and structured activities, iPlay iLead was created to help young people understand that what they learn on the court can also help them navigate life off the court.
How It Began
How It’s Going
Today, iPlay iLead has grown from its beginnings in Watts, California, to also serving youth in Compton, California, while continuing to expand opportunities for young people in underserved communities. Serving over 200 kids and youth ages 6-17.
Alongside basketball, youth have opportunities to participate in art, soccer, dance, physical education, empowerment workshops, and other enrichment activities. Through partnerships with community organizations and professionals, we also provide additional opportunities focused on college preparation, career exploration, financial literacy, leadership development, and real-world experiences.
Programming Offers:
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Art
- Dance
- Young Men’s Resiliency Group
In partnership with Project Blue, law enforcement officers serve as mentors, positive role models, and trusted community partners for our youth.
Shaun
Mentor & Participant
Sofie
iPlay iLead Beauties
Youth Spotlights
Become a part of the iPlay iLead family!
Contact us to sign-up, donate, or get involved!
Trayonna Rankins
iplayileadacademy@gmail.com
@iplayileadacademy
Program Needs
Volunteers
More young people means more caring adults. We need volunteers to help with programming, mentoring, academic support, events, and everyday engagement – people willing to show up consistently, build relationships, and become part of the village surrounding our youth.
Funding
Growth also means more supplies: sports equipment, art materials, uniforms, technology, and workshop resources. Dedicated funding lets us provide quality programming, replace worn or outdated equipment before it becomes a barrier, and ensure every child can fully participate.
Mentors
Our goal isn’t simply to serve more youth, it’s to serve them well. Volunteers provide the people power; funding provides the resources. Together, they create meaningful experiences.
