Indianapolis, IN (January 14th, 2026)

What happens when you bring together passionate mentors, eager young scholars, and the electric energy of an Indiana Pacers game? You get a night that impacts lives—and that’s exactly what happened during the recent Celebration of Mentoring Night at the Indiana Pacers game, presented by CareSource.

DREAM Alive was honored to be featured as part of this special celebration of mentorship. Forty-five of our incredible scholars and their mentors stepped into Gainbridge Fieldhouse for an evening packed with purpose, connection, and pure excitement.

The night kicked off with a powerful pre-game mentoring panel, where leaders from across the city shared wisdom on guidance, growth, and overcoming challenges. We were especially proud to see our own Destiney Lee, Middle School Director at DREAM Alive, shining on the panel—representing our commitment to intentional, long-term mentoring that helps scholars dream bigger and build career paths.

Thanks to the generosity of the Indiana Pacers and CareSource, our group enjoyed tickets to cheer on the Pacers during the game. The arena buzzed with energy, and for many of our scholars, this was their very first time attending a professional basketball game—a moment of pure wonder and new horizons.

But the magic didn’t end with the final buzzer. In an extraordinary post-game highlight, our scholars had the rare opportunity to spend time connecting with Pacers player Kam Jones. They asked thoughtful, insightful questions about perseverance, pursuing dreams, and life in the NBA. Kam responded with genuine warmth—answering every question, posing for photos, and signing autographs. Smiles stretched ear to ear as our scholars stood side-by-side with a pro athlete who embodied the very resilience we teach every day.

For our scholars, the night was transformative: a reminder that their dreams are within reach, that mentors (both in our program and beyond) believe in them, and that perseverance can open incredible doors.

At DREAM Alive, our mission is to mentor youth towards career paths from 6th grade all the way through high school graduation (7-consecutive years). Events like this reinforce why we do what we do—providing access, role models, connections and inspiration that fuel lasting change.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to the Indiana Pacers and CareSource for this partnership and for shining a spotlight on mentorship.

If this story inspires you, consider joining us—become a mentor, partner with us, get involved here. Together, we’re making dreams come alive.