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Issue Release: February 5, 2026

Image: Gary Thomas, Sr.- AVAC United Head Coach, Director, and Founder

AVAC United: Championing Youth Through Sports and Community — The Vision of Gary Thomas Sr.

By The Net Media

In communities across Southern California, one organization has quietly become a cornerstone for youth development and athletic opportunity: AVAC United Youth Sports & Mentoring, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Lancaster, California, working in tandem with its parent company, AVAC United, a for-profit organization that champions youth basketball division leagues throughout Los Angeles County and Orange County. Together, these entities form a comprehensive youth sports ecosystem that blends competitive athletics with mentorship, structure, and community engagement.

Led by founder and CEO Gary Thomas Sr., AVAC United has grown beyond the traditional model of a youth sports program. What began as a commitment to organized competition has evolved into a movement centered on empowerment, accountability, and long-term personal development. Through well-run leagues, tournaments, and mentoring initiatives, the organization provides young athletes with consistent opportunities to build skills, confidence, and discipline in environments designed to support both athletic and personal growth.

A Vision Rooted in Community and Growth

AVAC United traces its roots to decades of organizing competitive youth tournaments and community programming designed to uplift athletes and families alike. Over the years, the organization has grown to include multiple competitive brackets, from boys and girls basketball teams to full tournament schedules that span the calendar year.

At the heart of this organization is Gary Thomas Sr., a longtime advocate for youth sports who understands that structured athletic opportunities can play a transformative role in a young person’s life. Under his leadership, AVAC United has fostered an environment where discipline, teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship aren’t just encouraged, they’re expected.

Thomas’s work stretches beyond the hardwood. He emphasizes mentoring kids, helping them navigate challenges, build confidence, and explore opportunities that extend into academics, leadership, and community engagement. His hands-on approach, from running events to engaging with families, has helped build a network of coaches, volunteers, and supporters passionate about youth success.

What Makes AVAC United Different

What truly distinguishes AVAC United is the way it approaches youth sports as a complete developmental experience rather than a narrow focus on competition alone. The organization is intentionally structured to be inclusive, offering tournaments and leagues that serve athletes across a wide range of ages and skill levels. This consistency allows young players to grow at their own pace while gaining meaningful exposure in a competitive but supportive environment.

At the core of AVAC United’s model is a mentorship-first philosophy. Athletic performance is important, but it is never treated as the end goal. Instead, competition is paired with guidance that emphasizes character, accountability, teamwork, and real-world life skills. This balance sets AVAC United apart from traditional programs that often prioritize wins over personal development.

Equally important is the role AVAC United plays in strengthening community ties. Its events have become familiar gathering points for families, coaches, volunteers, and local partners, creating shared experiences that extend well beyond the court. Through consistent community engagement and the support of sponsors and volunteers, the organization has steadily expanded its reach and impact.

Leadership and accountability further reinforce AVAC United’s credibility. When challenges arise, they are addressed directly and responsibly. In moments requiring decisive action, Gary Thomas Sr. has personally stepped in to manage conflict and uphold conduct standards, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to safety, integrity, and respect. This hands-on leadership sends a clear message: AVAC United is committed to protecting its athletes and maintaining a culture that reflects its values.

Why Get Involved

In an era where youth sports can often feel transactional or exclusive, AVAC United stands out as a community-driven organization rooted in mentorship, discipline, and opportunity. Founded and led by Gary Thomas Sr., AVAC United has become a trusted platform for young athletes and families seeking more than competition, they are seeking growth.

AVAC United is not simply about winning games. It is about preparing young people for life through structure, accountability, and meaningful community engagement.

Communities thrive when their youth have access to constructive outlets. AVAC United provides a structured and supportive environment where young athletes can sharpen their skills, expand their social networks, and build confidence through competition. Coaches, volunteers, parents, and sponsors play a vital role in sustaining and expanding these opportunities.

Supporting AVAC United, whether through volunteer coaching, sponsorship, or event attendance — extends far beyond the games themselves. It sends a powerful message to the next generation about the value of hard work, community spirit, and personal development.

Empowering Participation Through Digital Innovation

In addition to its strong community and athletic focus, AVAC United has embraced forward-looking tools to broaden engagement and support. Through a partnership with WJN Investing, the organization offers digital coins that serve as an innovative way for supporters and participants to engage with AVAC United and contribute to its mission. These coins act as a form of digital currency that holders can use to make purchases online within the WJN Investing platform.

Unlike traditional fundraising methods, these digital coins are designed to provide real utility: once acquired, they can be spent to purchase goods and services offered through the WJN Investing ecosystem. This creates a seamless blend of community support and real-world value, allowing donors, families, and fans to directly support AVAC United while accessing online products and experiences. By expanding how people can participate and contribute, whether through conventional sponsorships or this newer digital option — AVAC United is tapping into modern tools that make involvement more accessible and meaningful for a broader audience.

This forward-thinking approach doesn’t just fuel the organization’s programs; it signals confidence in emerging digital economies and their potential to sustain youth and community programs well into the future.

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Leadership With a Hands-On Philosophy

Gary Thomas Sr. brings decades of experience in youth athletics and event leadership, grounding AVAC United in an approach that is both practical and deeply personal. His philosophy is simple but powerful: show up, stay involved, and lead by example. Whether he is coordinating tournaments, speaking directly with parents, or mentoring athletes, Thomas remains closely connected to the day-to-day heartbeat of the organization, ensuring that its values are lived, not just stated.

Under his leadership, AVAC United places a strong emphasis on personal responsibility, sportsmanship, and respect, reinforcing the importance of consistency and discipline both on and off the court. Athletes are encouraged to model positive behavior, understanding that how they carry themselves matters just as much as how they perform in competition. This steady, values-driven approach has helped AVAC United earn the trust of families, coaches, and community partners throughout Southern California, solidifying its reputation as an organization committed to developing well-rounded young leaders.

What Sets AVAC United Apart

1. Mentorship-Driven Athletics

AVAC United intentionally blends competition with character development. Athletes are encouraged to grow emotionally and socially alongside their physical skills, creating a balanced environment that supports long-term success.

2. Inclusive Competitive Platforms

The organization hosts year-round basketball tournaments and leagues for boys and girls across multiple age groups and skill levels, offering accessible opportunities for both emerging and experienced players.

3. Community-Centered Events

AVAC United tournaments serve as community gathering points — bringing together families, volunteers, coaches, and sponsors in environments that emphasize safety, structure, and positive engagement.

4. Accountability in Action

Leadership at AVAC United does not shy away from responsibility. Standards of conduct are enforced consistently, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to athlete safety, integrity, and professionalism.