At AASA, We Empower Individuals To Rise Above The Potential Threat of Substance Abuse By Creating Safe, Structured Spaces For Growth Through Athletics, Creative Expression, Arts and Mentorship.

AASA IN ACTION

OUR WHY

“I’ve witnessed firsthand how substance abuse can destroy lives and tear families apart. I also know the transformative power that opportunities in athletics and the arts can offer. Having access to resources, positive experiences, and an environment that fosters growth, self-awareness, and personal development can completely change a person’s path. My ultimate goal is to help at-risk youth and individuals shift the trajectory of their lives toward something positive, empowering, and full of purpose.”

-Founder Jamaal Tatum

OUR MISSION

• OUR MISSION

• OUR MISSION • OUR MISSION • OUR MISSION •

At AASA, our mission is to bridge the gap and empower at-risk youth and individuals by providing access to athletics, the arts, and positive mentorship. We are committed to preventing substance abuse by creating opportunities for growth, expression, and connection, regardless of financial means. Through community, creativity, and competition, we help young people discover their potential and build a future fueled by purpose, not pain.

AASA PROGRAMS

BASKETBALL CAMPS, BASKETBALL TRAINING & SKILL DEVELOPMENT TRAINING, LEADERSHIP SEMINARS, COACHING CLINICS, MENTORSHIP PROGRAMS, MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES, COMMUNITY EVENTS, ART OPPORTUNITIES AND WORKSHOPS

WE BRIDGE THE GAP BETWEEN COMMUNITY LEADERS & AT RISK YOUTH

UPCOMING EVENTS

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What is it like to work with Coach Jamaal?

"Jamaal has been a great influence in my life just within a short couple of years. He has shown me how to be patient, competitive, and how to have integrity. He has always been there for me when times get hard on and off the court.” Kobee
“Coach has made me a better player, but more importantly, a better person overall. On the court, Coach pushes me to improve my skills, stay focused, and give my best effort every time. But off the court , Coach helps me grow mentally and emotionally, encouraging me to reflect on my actions, stay disciplined, and handle challenges with a clear mind. Coach doesn’t just care about wins and losses … they care about who I am becoming. Thanks to Coach, I’ve learned how to evaluate my thoughts, stay motivated, and become a stronger person inside and out.” Demonie
"Coach Jamaal believed in me before I believed in myself. He doesn’t just teach basketball, he teaches discipline, teamwork, and how to keep pushing when things get tough. Training with him has changed the way I see myself and what I’m capable of.” Cookie
“Training with Coach Jamaal has been one of the best experiences of my life. He doesn’t treat me any different because I’m a girl, he expects greatness from all of us, and that pushes me to go harder every day. He’s patient, encouraging, and always reminding us that our worth isn’t just in how we play, but in who we are. Thanks to him, I feel more confident both on the court and in myself.” Makayla
“Coach Jamaal doesn’t just teach us how to play basketball...he teaches us how to believe in ourselves. Before I started training with him, I was shy and unsure of my skills. Now, I feel stronger, faster, and more confident every time I step on the court. He pushes us to be our best, and he never lets us forget that we’re capable of greatness. Coach Jamaal changed my life.” Zamarion
“What Coach Tatum gave me wasn’t just skill, it was purpose. He saw potential in me and pushed me to chase bigger dreams. Without his guidance, I wouldn’t be playing college basketball today. He’s one of the greatest blessings to ever come into my life.” Malik

About the Founder – Coach Jamaal Tatum

Coach Jamaal Tatum founded AASA (Athletics Against Substance Abuse- a 501(c)3 non profit organization) in June 2021 after realizing he felt most fulfilled when living with a clear mind and using his life to serve others. He created AASA to offer the same second chances, support, and opportunities that helped him overcome challenges in his own life.

A Jefferson City native and standout athlete, Jamaal played collegiate basketball at Southern Illinois University—earning MVC Player of the Year and four NCAA tournament appearances—before going pro with teams like the Atlanta Hawks and Portland Trail Blazers.

Now retired from playing, his mission is deeper than basketball. He's passionate about helping others grow through adversity, find purpose, and become the best version of themselves—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. AASA is his way of giving back and helping others do the same.

Make an impact today

Support our mission by contributing a donation.

*AASA is a registered 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible.

Donor Tiers:

VIP Donor - $50,000 +
Special Donor - $25,000-$49,000
Platinum Donor - $15,000-$24,000
Gold Donor - $10,000-$14,000
Silver Donor - $5,000-$9,000
Bronze Donor - $1,000-$4,000
Friend’s Donor - $250-$900

*Donations may go to any of the following areas (but not limited to) dependent upon what priorities are most time sensitive for AASA at the present time:

Consultants, Therapists, Volunteer Stipends, Facility, Uniforms, Equipment, Tournament Entry Fees, Athletic Training, Athletic Skills Development Clinic Tour