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?
Ingrid Neel, tennis.
What inspired you to give back to your community/commit time to service?
Sport has done so much for me that I relish the chance to show others who are less fortunate how much it can change their life like it has changed mine.
What cause are you passionate about? Why?
I’m passionate about the link between education and athletics and how one helps the other to create opportunities that better people’s lives because I have had such a positive experience with school and sports.
What are some of the things/activities you’ve done in your community in terms of service?
I mentor younger athletes on a path towards opportunity and achievement in after school sports.
What has inspired you or what has been your favorite moment when giving back to your community?
The moment of recognition and happiness that any person has when they discover a passion that can change their life.
How do you balance being a pro athlete and participate in a service?
When I’m competing at a tennis event that asks for volunteers, whether it be teaching clinics for the local youth, or an opportunity to work with a school group, I’m always happy to step in.
How has being an athlete helped you give back to your community?
Everything I have is due to the sport I play and the opportunities I have been given because of it, and though I could never repay all I have been given, I can help in small ways to allow others a chance to start playing the game.
What was the first moment that you realized the importance of using your platform to give back?
I played a mixed doubles tournament for a cancer foundation at age 10 and saw the influence and joy it brought to others. It made me very happy to play a small role in helping a charity, especially when I was that young.
What is your advice to other athletes across all levels of sports who are looking to get more involved in community service/giving back?
Find something you are passionate about and follow your passion, because if others see how much you love what you do, it will inspire them.
What does the future of your charitable involvement look like? What are your long-term goals?
Once I’m permanently located and no longer traveling the world trying to be a tennis player, I plan to either create or join an already established foundation that services at-risk youth via sport.