Our Story
From a summer basketball camp to a community movement — serving the youth of Cartersville–Bartow County for more than 37 years.
What We Stand For
Mission
Empowering youth ages 6–17 in the Cartersville-Bartow County community by providing free educational, social intervention, and athletic programs that inspire growth, confidence, and opportunity.
Vision
A community where all youth have the support, opportunity, and confidence to thrive.
Values
Respect · Accountability · Leadership · Community · Growth · Service
From the Court to the Community
In 1989, Eddie Lee Wilkins had just finished a career in the NBA with the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers. Instead of leaving his hometown behind, he came back to Cartersville, Georgia, with an idea — use what the game taught him to create real opportunities for youth in his community.
That first summer, 150 children joined the basketball camp.
From Camp to Movement
They came for the sport, but what they found was something more — mentorship, structure, encouragement, and adults who believed in them.
By 1999, the program had grown enough to incorporate as a nonprofit. A year later, ELW earned its 501(c)(3) status. The name changed to reflect what the organization had become — not just a basketball camp, but a comprehensive youth development program built around athletics, education, and social intervention.
Four Generations Strong
Over the past three decades, ELW has served more than 20,000 youth. Participants who attended camp in the early years are now enrolling their own children and grandchildren — making this a truly multigenerational community institution.
Today, every program remains 100% free. The mission hasn't changed. The community keeps showing up. And the work continues.
"The ELW Youth Association, Inc. has achieved remarkable success by offering a comprehensive approach to youth enrichment that combines sports, education, and social support to engage youth and inspire them to reach their full potential."
Terry EllisCartersville Police DepartmentBe Part of Our Story
Whether you want to enroll your child, support our programs with a donation, or get involved as a volunteer or sponsor — there's a place for you in this work. ELW Youth Association, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.