Today we’d like to introduce you to Cedric Jones
Hi Cedric, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Growing up, basketball was more than just a game to me—it was a way to stay focused, grounded, and connected. I started playing when I was just three years old, and through the years, sports taught me discipline, teamwork, and resilience. But as I grew older, I realized it wasn’t just the game that shaped me—it was the mentors, the structure, and the life lessons that came with it.
As a father of four and a coach, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges our youth face, especially those who lack strong support systems. I started Elevation Training Academy (ETA) because I wanted to provide a space where kids could not only develop their athletic skills but also grow academically, spiritually, and socially.
With the help of my girlfriend, Shandell, ETA began to take shape. Her passion for helping others and her unwavering support made it possible to turn this vision into reality. Starting ETA wasn’t easy. It took dedication, long hours, and a lot of faith, but together, we built something special—a holistic, community-focused organization dedicated to uplifting underprivileged youth.
It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m proud of how far we’ve come. But for us, it’s not just about where we are today—it’s about the lives we’re shaping for tomorrow.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Starting and running Elevation Training Academy (ETA) has come with its fair share of challenges. One of the biggest struggles was building something from the ground up with limited resources. When you’re trying to create opportunities for underprivileged youth, funding and support aren’t always easy to secure. We had to learn to be resourceful and creative, finding ways to maximize what we had while staying true to our mission.
Another challenge was balancing it all—coaching, parenting, being active in church, working full time, and running a nonprofit. There were moments when it felt overwhelming, but having the right team and support system, including my girlfriend Shandell, made all the difference. She helped bring structure, vision, and encouragement during the toughest moments.
We’ve also faced the challenge of gaining the trust of the community. It takes time to show people that you’re truly invested in their well-being and not just creating another program. It’s about proving that we’re here for the long haul and that we genuinely care about the kids and their futures.
Despite these struggles, every obstacle has taught us something valuable. They’ve pushed us to grow, to innovate, and to stay committed to the bigger picture—making a lasting impact in the lives of these young athletes. And looking back, the challenges have only strengthened our resolve to keep moving forward.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At Elevation Training Academy (ETA), our mission is to empower underprivileged youth through a holistic approach that combines sports, education, and life skills. We focus on more than just athletic development—we’re here to build strong, well-rounded individuals. Whether it’s on the court, in the classroom, or in their personal lives, we aim to equip kids with the tools they need to succeed.
I specialize in mentoring and coaching, using sports as a vehicle to teach discipline, teamwork, and leadership. What sets ETA apart is our commitment to addressing the whole child. We’ve also partnered with organizations like the Boys and Girls Club to expand our reach and provide even more opportunities for the youth in our community. Together, we’re creating programs that emphasize academic success, mental health support, and personal growth to ensure every child has a strong foundation for lifelong success.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the impact we’ve made in the community. Seeing kids grow into confident, capable young adults is incredibly rewarding. Many of our kids come from challenging backgrounds, and knowing that ETA provides them with stability, mentorship, and opportunities they might not have had otherwise is what drives me every day.
What truly sets us apart is our personal approach. At ETA, every child matters. We’re not just running a program; we’re building a family. Shandell and I, pour our hearts into this work. We meet each child where they are and help them grow into the best version of themselves. That personal connection, along with our collaborations with organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, makes ETA a unique and impactful force in our community.
What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me is making a lasting impact on the lives of the kids and families we serve. I’ve always believed that every child deserves a chance to succeed, no matter where they come from or the challenges they face. For me, it’s not just about teaching basketball or running a program—it’s about creating a space where kids feel seen, valued, and supported.
Why? Because I know what it’s like to need guidance and mentorship. Growing up, sports and the people who coached me taught me lessons that went far beyond the game. Now, I want to be that positive influence for others.
What drives me the most is knowing that the work we do at Elevation Training Academy can change the trajectory of a child’s life. Whether it’s helping them discover their potential, teaching them skills to navigate life, or providing opportunities they might not have had otherwise, it’s all about building a brighter future for them.
At the end of the day, seeing these kids grow, succeed, and give back to their communities is what keeps me going. That ripple effect—the impact they’ll have on the world—is what truly matters to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ETAfl.org
- Instagram: https://Www.instagram.com/elevationtrainingacademy
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552676514955&mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
Shandell Stuckey
