Jamal Gaines first began coaching basketball at his local recreation center in Sarasota, Florida—sometimes indoors, sometimes outside, wherever space could be found. A handful of kids eager to get better at basketball soon became the foundation for a thriving business. “I poured everything I had into helping them improve,” Jamal said. “Over time, word spread, and what started as a passion turned into a full-time business training athletes from youth to the pros.”
Founded in 2020, NO FE4R Basketball Academy is more than a training program. Under Jamal’s leadership, the academy empowers youth through high-level basketball instruction while instilling leadership, discipline, and confidence. The mission is clear: help young athletes develop not just as players, but as people. “By focusing on personal development, we help young athletes build life skills, strong habits, and reach their full potential,” Jamal explains.
The impact of this mission is evident in the stories of the athletes themselves. Jamal recalls Jamier, whom he drove to training sessions when Jamier didn't have a ride. “He stayed consistent, worked hard, and now he’s one of the top players in the county. That’s what it’s all about,” Jamal shares.
NO FE4R’s commitment to the community extends far beyond the basketball court. The academy hosts free clinics, offers mentoring, and partners with local schools and recreation centers to ensure training is accessible, especially for families in need. From free spring break camps to back-to-school drives, Jamal and his team are dedicated to showing up for Sarasota’s youth and the entire community.
When Hurricane Helene struck, the storm forced gyms to close, halting training sessions and cutting off a vital source of income. “It was tough, especially not knowing how long it would last or when things would get back to normal,” Jamal recalls. Yet, as soon as it was safe, he was back—finding courts wherever possible, helping with community cleanup, and providing a sense of normalcy for the kids who needed it most.
Reflecting on the experience, Jamal acknowledges the importance of disaster preparedness. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Readiness for Resiliency (R4R) program offers guidance on protecting your business operations, employees, and accelerating recovery. The R4R program was developed in collaboration with FedEx, with additional support from Allstate, American Express, and Fiserv, to help small business owners prepare for disasters and recover as quickly as possible after an event occurs.
For Jamal, the R4R program’s $5,000 recovery grant made a tangible difference. It covered gym rentals, allowed him to resume training sessions, and ensured that even families who were out of work after the storm could continue participating. “That support [from the grant] helped me keep things running and still show up for my community,” he says.
Jamal’s advice to other small business owners is simple but powerful:
Take Action Today
Join our Small Business Readiness for Resiliency (R4R) program by completing the Emergency Preparedness Checklist and registering your business for the chance to receive a $5,000 grant when a disaster hits your area.
