About Us

The Jimmy Banks Academy was birthed from the inspiring success story of the late Jimmy Banks™, a renowned USMNT Soccer Icon, Mentor, Community Advocate, and Milwaukee Native.After his passing, the children of Jimmy Banks, Demetrius "Dee" Banks Sr., J.C. Banks, and Jordan Banks established the Jimmy Banks Academy (J.B.A.), to honor his memory in community, education, mentorship, and soccer.Jimmy Banks^™ was an American soccer defender who played for the Milwaukee Wave and more notably was one of the first two African-American men to represent the United States National Team. He was born on September 2, 1964, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and passed away on April 26, 2019, in the same city.Banks began his soccer career at The Salvation Army - Citadel at the age of 6. Growing up in the Westlawn Housing Projects and attending the Silver Spring Neighborhood Center, Jimmy's passion for soccer was nurtured from a young age. Throughout elementary, middle, and high school, he continued to refine his skills on the field. At Custer High School, Banks earned numerous honors, including the prestigious McDonald's All-American Award. Jimmy continued to hone his craft at Milwaukee Kickers and the Bavarian Soccer Clubs. Banks played college soccer at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he was a forward/midfield star on the men's soccer team and was co-captain his senior year.Jimmy earned 35 caps with the national team between 1986 and 1991, including two games at the 1990 FIFA World Cup. After retiring from playing professionally, Banks remained deeply involved in youth mentorship, community outreach, and soccer development. Banks served as Director of Athletics at Mary Ryan Boys & Girls Club, entered the coaching ranks with youth clubs (Jimmy Banks Soccer Camp and Simba’s Soccer Team), and later as the Head Coach of the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) Men's Soccer Team, leaving his imprint on the hearts of each individual impacted by his life.In 2022, Milwaukee Public Schools renamed Custer Stadium to honor Banks.Our mission at Jimmy Banks Academy (J.B.A.) is to continue his legacy by using soccer as a catalyst to empower under-resourced kids and youth with essential life skills. Our programs integrate physical fitness, educational goal-setting, and impactful mentorship that positively influence the lives of young people. We firmly believe that sports, physical activity, education, and mentorship have the power to transform lives, nurture thriving communities, and cultivate responsible citizens.

The Academy

Our programs focus on the critical needs of youth in our community. We provide inclusive programming that encourages regular physical fitness, healthy nutrition and social habits, educational goal-setting, mentorship, and fun. The staff comprises experienced soccer coaches, mentors, educators, and trained volunteers dedicated to helping bring out the untapped potential of every child.Soccer Academy
This program consists of camps, clinics, and classes that focus on developing soccer skills, physical fitness, and healthy nutrition awareness, using soccer to advance life skills."4"Ward Education Academy
This component is designed to help youth pursue their educational goals. It's never too early for our kids and youth to plan for higher education and economic stability.“Class Act“ Mentorship Academy
Programming focuses on personal and social development.

Backpack to School

Backpack to School provides grade school students from under-resourced communities with a backpack full of essential supplies, to begin the school year ready to learn, participate in class, and complete their homework. For many families, backpacks and school supplies are not affordable. Gifting these academic necessities promotes and encourages attendance while boosting self-confidence.The Jimmy Banks Academy believes every child deserves to begin their academic career with the tools necessary to become an engaged and successful student.

Kicks "4" Kids

Kicks "4" Kids provides new shoes to under-resourced children who cannot afford them. This program supports healthy choices that help children participate in their recommended daily exercise. By jump-starting children on the path to fitness and healthy living, the Jimmy Banks Academy provides young people with an opportunity that will enhance their quality of life and provide a sense of confidence. Our program also helps combat rapidly increasing obesity rates in under-resourced young people, which leads to improved attitudes and greater self-esteem.

Make A Donation

One of the great pleasures for Jimmy Banks Academy Inc. is expressing our heartfelt appreciation for the acts of kindness extended to us.Thanks to our generous partners, we can continue our mission of supporting under-resourced children and youth in Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties. Our programming focuses on soccer, education, financial literacy, life skills, and mentorship, ensuring young individuals have access to quality programming.If you would like to contribute and help us make a difference, please consider donating by clicking the "Donate Now" button below.

• Donate Now

You may also mail a check to the following address:Jimmy Banks Academy
P.O. Box 16682
Milwaukee, WI 53216For any inquiries or further assistance, please contact La Toya Wimpie at (414) 323-2338.Your support plays a vital role in empowering the young people in our community. Together, we can create a brighter future for these deserving individuals.

Demetrius “Dee” Banks Sr.
Executive Director

Jimmy "J.C." Banks Jr.
Board Member

Jordan Banks
Board Member

Christopher Perceptions
Board Member

La Toya Wimpie
Board Member

Datherene Gant
Board Member

Kenneth Gold Jr.
Board Member

Contact Us

For press or general inquiries, please complete the following form and we will respond to you within 48 hours.