Athletes for Hope would not exist without the drive, passion and dedication by athletes all over the world to make the world a better place. In our Member Athlete Spotlight series, it is our hope that the public will get to know our athletes, learn about the philanthropy and advocacy work they’re doing and understand what motivates them to use their platform for good.
What is your name, school, school year, sport?
My name is Lexi Daniels, and I am an LSU Swim alum.
What cause(s) are you passionate about? Why?
I am super passionate about the We’re Committed movement across the LSU campus because no-one should be violated and they should feel comfortable wherever they are, at any time.
What are some of the things/activities you’ve done in your community in terms of service (AFHU related or not)?
I would go to the retirement home every Sunday with homemade chocolate chip cookies and call bingo. I would visit with the residents and have so much fun but due to COVID restrictions, I haven’t been able to go recently.
I would also volunteer at my church in childcare! I would make lesson plans and teach kids about the bible while making it fun!
What has inspired you or what has been your favorite moment when giving back to your community? Has there been anyone you’ve met that has made a long-lasting impact on you?
My favorite memory was throwing a surprise going away party for one of the residents in the retirement home! He was so happy and even cried a little because he felt the love from everyone at the home. It is showing those around you that you care by doing little things along the way which has had the biggest impact on me.
How do you balance being a student, an athlete and participate in service?
It’s something that has always been super important to me, so I would have to work harder through the week to give me the freedom during the weekend to volunteer at the retirement home and Sunday school.
What was the first moment that you realized the importance of using your platform to give back?
Unfortunately, it was during my senior year. We were always told we had a platform but never fully realized it until this past year. With the Black Lives Matter, the Election, and HB report coming out, we had the option to really speak up on issues close to us.
What is your advice to other student-athletes who are looking to get more involved in community service/giving back?
Do it! I was so afraid at first but jumped right in and found a home! Although there was an age gap between most that I worked with, we found so many things in common and gave each other advice or life lessons!
What does the future of your charitable involvement look like? What are your long-term goals?
I am currently in the process of finding a job that is committed to its own community, in which I could get involved in. Additionally, I plan to find other opportunities and organizations to get involved in outside of work.
My long-term goals are to get involved and give back multiple different charities and instill it into my children’s lives.