GBA’s mission is to empower youth by developing their athletic skills, leadership, work ethic, world view, and enhancing their commitment to the community.
For many children at Gil Basketball Academy, life has rarely extended beyond Salinas. But when these young athletes travel for college tours, tournaments, and international trips, their entire perspective changes. They begin to see bigger possibilities for themselves and their future. They return home with confidence, motivation, and belief that they belong in college classrooms, leadership roles, and careers they may have never imagined before. This year, Monterey County Gives! donations will help fund these life-changing travel experiences, opening doors for East Salinas youth to see, and believe in, a bigger future for themselves.
When people hear the words "GBA" they think of Gil's Basketball Academy, but what I think of is Ganas and the fire the coaches and players have. GBA has impacted my life in multiple ways, from public speaking and making connections with people to improving my basketball skills. Since joining GBA, my ability to communicate has improved, because on or off the court you must speak confidently, clearly, and loudly. One of the biggest lessons I've learned through GBA is doing the little things like making eye contact when coaches and players speak, picking up trash, and helping those in need. These are things no one notices, but they add up. GBA has made me more confident, from speaking up when something's wrong to speaking in public. I remember when I stuttered and couldn't bring myself to speak, and with GBA I was able to articulate my thoughts more clearly.
- Diego Ramirez, Salinas
