Jamal Gaines
Founder of Team NO FE4R
Jamal Gaines is the founder of Team NO FE4R (nonprofit) and owner of NO FE4R Basketball Academy, based in Sarasota. He currently serves as the head basketball coach at Booker Middle School and has trained athletes at every level; from youth and high school to college and professionals.
Jamal earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Bethune-Cookman University, where he also played basketball. He later earned his master’s in Transformative Leadership, equipping him to mentor youth not only on the court, but in life. His mission is to use the game as a tool to teach discipline, leadership, and confidence especially in the same Newtown community that helped raise him.
JERRIKA GREEN
Vice President & Executive Assistant
Jerrika has always had a heart for service. With over a decade of experience as a preschool director, she understands the power of early development, compassion, and consistency in shaping lives. Her passion for serving others, especially youth and families, is at the core of everything she does. Outside of her work with Team NO FE4R, she enjoys spending quality time with her children and family, and continues to be a steady, nurturing presence in every space she enters.
DIANE PRESTON-GAINES
MRS. DEDE
Co-Vice President & Community Liaison
With over 40 years of service in Sarasota County Schools Transportation, Diane Preston-Gaines—affectionately known as “Mrs. Dede”—is a true pillar in the community. Her legacy of dedication, compassion, and consistency continues through her role with NO FE4R, where she serves as both Co-Director and Community Liaison.
She brings a mother’s heart and a leader’s presence—always showing up with wisdom, grace, and deep love for our youth. Whether it’s supporting families, guiding programs, or staying grounded in faith and family, Mrs. Dede helps keep the mission rooted and real.
