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, sport, team?
Ayden Jent, retired Para Track and Field (2015-2019), U.S. Paralympian (2016-Rio)
What inspired you to give back to your community?
My family has instilled in me that serving others is one of the most important things you can do with your life. Our family benefited from the charity of our neighbors after our house caught on fire and we lived in my mother’s shop for three months. They showed kindness and love when they didn’t have to. Which has had a profound effect on me. We only get so many years in our lives, why not spend them lifting people up instead of knocking them down.
What cause(s) are you passionate about? Why?
Building awareness and opportunities in adaptive sports, promoting health/wellness, beautifying local neighborhoods. Everyone can make a difference in their lives and those around them. Even if it is only turning on a small light in a dark room.
What are some of the things/activities you’ve done in your community in terms of service?
I’ve volunteered with the Joseph Maley Foundation (JMF) in their youth fitness program and I’ve been blessed to speak at schools through their disABILITY Awareness Program. Teaching students about the Paralympics, growing up with a disability, and treating each other with respect, kindness, and empathy.
What has inspired you or what has been your favorite moment when giving back to your community? Has there been anyone you’ve met who has made a long-lasting impact on you?
The effect of seeing what a smile, kind words and showing someone, you care can have on them. It’s not just about the charity work, and community service. But it’s about the smaller day to day interactions with each other. You never know what someone is going through. Kindness, and support can go a long way in helping to life someone up.
What was the first moment that you realized the importance of using your platform to give back?
Seeing a smile and laugh from a young child that was just looking for someone to support them. It fills you up with such positive energy and motivation to continue to help them and serve others.
What is your advice to other athletes across all levels of sports who are looking to get more involved in community service/giving back?
I encourage you to find something you’re passionate about and go out and support it. It could be protecting trees, animals, the ocean or more. There are so many avenues and potential opportunities out there. You could also bring your experiences to the table and help people in ways you never thought possible.
What does the future of your charitable involvement look like? What are your long-term goals?
I’m working with Angel City Games in L.A. to start a chapter in Indiana. It will focus on building opportunities for individuals with disabilities to connect with adaptive sports. While also helping to educate all participants about health and wellness. My big dream is to one day be able to provide two Scholarships to students from my old high school to help them with college. Community Service and giving back isn’t just something you do it should be a way of life.