Frequently Asked Questions

Team Dream Academy is a nonprofit 501[c][3] community‑based youth development organization founded in 2017 to expand opportunities for young people in Inglewood, CA and nearby neighborhoods. Founded by Barry Hargress and Leland “Pookey” Wigington, TDA was built on the belief that every young person deserves access to academic support, mentorship, and structured athletic programs that build confidence and character.

TDA offers a blend of education, enrichment, and sports programs designed to help youth grow academically, socially, and personally. The organization provides tutoring, financial literacy education, college scholarship support, and high‑quality basketball training that emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and leadership. Through these programs, TDA creates a safe, supportive environment where youth can discover their strengths, develop lifelong skills, and pursue brighter futures.

TDA continues to serve as a trusted resource for families seeking guidance, opportunity, and a positive community for their children.

You can donate to Team Dream Academy by visiting our website and clicking on the Donate button, or by sending a check (please send an email to Admin1@teamdreamacademy.org for mailing instructions). 

You can support Team Dream Academy by contributing in the way that works best for you. Donations help fund academic programs, financial literacy education, scholarships, and sports training for youth in Inglewood and surrounding communities. Common ways supporters give include:

• Online donations through our secure giving page
• Mail‑in contributions sent directly to the organization
• Sponsorships or recurring monthly gifts that sustain programs year‑round
• In‑kind donations that support events, tutoring, or athletic programs

Each contribution directly strengthens the resources available to local youth and expands access to life‑changing opportunities.

Donations to Team Dream Academy are tax‑deductible, as the organization is recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit by the IRS. Our federal Tax ID (EIN) is 47‑2256962. Donors receive a receipt for every contribution, which can be used when filing federal income taxes to claim eligible charitable deductions.

Supporting TDA not only strengthens programs for youth in Inglewood—it also provides you with the benefits associated with giving to a qualified charitable organization. 

 The TDA Basketball Team welcomes youth ages 8 - 14 who are eager to grow on and off the court. 

How to get started:

• Complete a registration form for your child, which includes basic contact information, age/grade level, and basketball experience (no experience required).
• Attend an orientation or evaluation session, where coaches meet players, explain expectations, and place them in the appropriate training group.
• Submit any required waivers or documents, such as emergency contact information and participation consent forms.
• Confirm your child’s practice schedule, based on their age group and skill level.

What families can expect:

• A supportive, mentorship‑driven environment
• Skill development focused on fundamentals, teamwork, and discipline
• Opportunities for clinics, training sessions, and competitive play
• Coaches who prioritize character, confidence, and leadership

For more information, please visit our membership page here.

Yes. You can watch a Team Dream Academy basketball practice at our primary training location:

Rogers Park, 400 W Beach Ave Inglewood, CA 90302. Practices are held throughout the week and include skill development, team drills, and mentorship time with coaches. Because schedules vary by age group and season, visitors are encouraged to confirm the current practice times before arriving. Observing a session is a great way to see our coaching approach, team culture, and the supportive environment we create for youth.

YES! Team Dream Academy does offer scholarship opportunities for youth who participate in our programs. These scholarships are designed to support students who demonstrate commitment, leadership, and growth—both academically and through their involvement with TDA. Awards may include assistance with college tuition, educational expenses, or program-related costs, depending on availability and eligibility.

Scholarships are typically connected to participation in TDA programs such as tutoring, financial literacy, and the basketball academy, ensuring that students who are actively engaged have access to additional support as they pursue their goals.  For more information or to complete an application, click here.