Unlocking Opportunities, Realizing Dreams

Integrating Academic & Athletic Growth for a Future of Success

The CKA SAVE Project, Inc. is a nationally recognized academic and athletic development nonprofit based in Silver Spring, Maryland. We provide comprehensive, integrated support that prepares student-athletes not just for college—but for life.


Founded by Dr. Keith Adams, whose over three decades of experience in academics and athletics inform every program we build, the CKA SAVE Project is uniquely equipped to help student-athletes navigate today’s complex collegiate landscape—including NIL, the Transfer Portal, and rising academic demands.


Our work centers on student-athletes, many from underserved communities, ensuring that access to high-quality guidance is never determined by zip code, roster size, or resources. When your future is on the line, Experience Matters.

Tailored Support & Advocacy for Underserved Communities

At the CKA SAVE Project, we believe that true student-athlete development requires more than tutoring or training. It requires a holistic, integrated model that addresses academic performance, athletic skill, and personal well-being simultaneously.


Our programs deliver:

  • Student-Athlete Academic & Athletic Consulting — Navigating recruiting, the Transfer Portal, and NIL considerations
  • Academic Skills Assessments & Monitoring — Personalized evaluations and year-round academic support
  • Financial Literacy & Personal Branding — Equipping students for success on and off the field
  • College Preparation & Career Readiness — Building a foundation for life after athletics

Through strategic partnerships with schools, sports organizations, and community groups, we expand access to mentorship, specialized coaching, and college preparation resources—directly addressing the equity gaps that too often determine a student-athlete’s ceiling.


We are also active advocates for policy change. Under Dr. Adams’ leadership, the CKA SAVE Project works alongside The Drake Group and national stakeholders to protect college student-athletes and promote truly supportive academic environments.

Building Futures Through Academics & Athletics

Founded in 2009 as the Coach Keith Adams: Student-Athletes Valuing Education Project, the CKA SAVE Project was built on a simple but powerful conviction: academics and athletics, when aligned, are the most effective catalyst for lifelong success.


What began as a local initiative—supported by former student-athletes, educators, and community partners—has grown into a nationally recognized force in student-athlete empowerment. Our programs teach essential skills: time management, self-advocacy, organizational discipline, and an “Athletic Mindset” that applies the accountability and communication standards of elite athletics to academic and professional life.


Recent Milestones

  • National Research & Presentations — Conducted research at the NCAA Men’s Final Four and the Black Student-Athlete Summit; presented findings at Learning Forward and AMLE Conferences, and the Black Doctoral Network to name a few.
  • Student Empowerment — Hosted over 30 students at the Allen Sack National Symposium at Howard University and expanded academic and athletic consulting services nationwide
  • Strategic Partnerships — Forged new partnerships with like minded organizations and deepened advocacy work with The Drake Group to protect college student-athletes
  • National Expansion — Successfully launched CKA SAVE Project Career Launch Academy extending direct support to diverse communities.

None of this work is possible without the belief and generosity of our supporters. Your contributions sustain programs that change the trajectory of student-athletes’ lives—from recruitment to graduation and beyond.

Finding Your Balance

Dive into "Finding the Balance: My Personal Journey to Academic and Athletic Success" by Dr. Keith Adams. This insightful book is more than just a memoir; it's a comprehensive guide for student-athletes, coaches, teachers, parents, and administrators. Dr. Adams shares his 30-year journey in academics and athletics, providing valuable lessons and practical strategies for achieving excellence.

Unlock Your Potential

We are dedicated to providing student-athletes with the support they need to excel in both academics and athletics. Our range of services includes personalized academic and athletic consulting, comprehensive skills assessments, and continuous academic monitoring. Each service is designed to address the unique needs of student-athletes, helping them navigate challenges and achieve their full potential.

What Others Have to Say About Us

Keri Alexander Luchowski, Executive Director North Coast Athletic Conference

"We are thrilled to partner with Dr. Adams and the CKA SAVE Project. We share the goals of empowering students through rigorous academics and outstanding athletics. Developing the whole student to become a productive and successful citizen is also the Division III goal and we're proud to partner with an organization that has been highlighting the same power of sport. The CKA SAVE Project Balanced Student-Athlete Award is a fantastic way to shine a light on deserving student-athletes from our four conferences, and also to elevate their experience at the Opendorse Bowl Series. And knowing that research opportunities exist with CKA SAVE Project are an added bonus opportunity for our students. This is a fantastic partnership!"

Jim Larranaga, Head Basketball University of Miami

“There is no greater responsibility in life than to help others. Keith Adams and the CKA SAVE Project embody this ideal. His efforts have and will continue to have a positive impact on the young people he works with. His devotion to helping students is a shining example to all of us as to what can be accomplished when you make a total commitment to doing the right thing.”

Dr. Lisa M. Rubin, Associate Professor, Kansas State University

"Dr. Adams' book provides knowledge and stories for prospective college athletes, informed by research on academic and athletic motivation."

Make a Difference Today!

We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support and dedication you have shown to the CKA SAVE Project, Inc. Your contributions have made a significant impact on the lives of countless student-athletes, helping them achieve their academic and athletic goals. Through your generosity, we have been able to provide essential resources, personalized support, and innovative programs that empower student-athletes to excel both in the classroom and on the field.

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