Athletes for Hope Continues Founders’ Legacies Through Athlete Leadership Council
Over seventeen years ago, a group of elite athletes came together to form the world’s leading sports philanthropy organization, Athletes for Hope (AFH). Since its inception AFH has worked with thousands of athletes worldwide, connecting with a minimum of 5 athletes a day, educating and engaging them on how to make the world a better place.
Among the AFH Founding Athletes was “the Greatest,” Muhammad Ali. Regarded as one of the most significant sports figures of the 20th century and the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time, Ali’s greatest triumphs have taken place outside of the ring as a leader and champion of life.
Through his humanitarian efforts, he has perhaps contributed more than any other athlete to make the world a better place. Recipient of the 1997 Arthur Ashe Courage Award and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005, Muhammad leaves a legacy that continues to inspire people all over the world.
During the month of Ali’s birthday, a symbol of resilience, advocacy, and philanthropy, Athletes for Hope announces its launch of the newly formed Athlete Leadership Council (ALC) that will play a crucial role in carrying forward Ali’s vision by leveraging the influence of athletes to create positive social change.
Spearheaded by esteemed athletes Stephen Curry, Katie Ledecky and Nathan Chen, the ALC is a nod to the AFH Founding Athletes as the generational athletes of today continue on their legacy by inspiring the next generation of sports leaders.
“It means so much to be able to continue the legacy of AFH Founding Athletes like Muhammad Ali, Mia Hamm, Andre Agassi, Alonzo Mourning and others who joined forces to create Athletes for Hope over 17 years ago,” said Stephen Curry, renowned NBA Superstar and Co-Founder of Eat. Learn. Play. “It’s a privilege to carry forward their shared belief that all athletes- no matter what level, background or phase in their career- have the innate ability to make the world a better place.”
The Athlete Leadership Council will focus on collaborative efforts and inspiring the next generation of athletes to address social issues, support charitable causes, and positively engage with communities globally.
AFH remains committed to creating a world where athletes can contribute meaningfully to society beyond their athletic achievements, with a focus on athlete volunteerism and addressing physical health and mental health in communities all over the world.
Athletes for Hope is free of charge to athletes of any level. If you are a current or retired athlete looking to make a difference in your community, we invite you to work with us!