Throughout May, Athletes for Hope celebrated Mental Health Awareness Month with a full calendar of events, conversations, and community-led action. From athlete engagement and school programming to national partnerships and powerful storytelling, this month reminded us why prioritizing mental health—on and off the field—matters more than ever. Here’s a look back at the highlights:
Putt for Passion Golf Tournament Raises $140K for Athlete Mental Health
We kicked off the month with our Putt for Passion Golf Tournament, presented by Thrivent, at Kenwood Country Club in Washington, D.C. Despite some stormy skies, athletes, supporters, board members, and staff came together to raise more than $140,000 in support of our CHAMPS and Whole Being Athlete mental health programs. The tournament was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when community and purpose come together.
High School Leadership Academy Dives Into Mental Health Education
Our High School Leadership Academy (HSLA) sessions in May focused on mental health, featuring guidance from AFH Chief Wellbeing Officer Dr. Mena Mirhom. Olympian Manteo Mitchell and Paralympian Jenny Sichel joined as guest speakers, sharing insights on overcoming adversity and maintaining mental wellness while competing at the highest level. These virtual sessions empowered HSLA cohorts in DC and LA to lead with empathy and resilience.
CHAMPS Continues to Inspire in Baton Rouge
While most of our CHAMPS programming wrapped in April, we were thrilled to join students at LA Key Academy in Baton Rouge for a special May session. Led by Kendra Coleman and Dr. Mena, the session focused on practical mental health strategies—like going for a walk, getting enough rest, and speaking with a trusted adult. Students also learned to think creatively about their own coping strategies, reinforcing the CHAMPS values of Courage, Honesty, Accountability, Mindfulness, Positivity, and Strength.
AFH at the 2025 APA Annual Meeting
AFH was proud to be represented at the 2025 American Psychiatric Association (APA) Annual Meeting through a partnership with the American Psychiatric Association Foundation. Dr. Mena hosted a fireside chat with World Series MVP Ben Zobrist, former NBA player Josh Childress, and NWSL player Kyra Carusa. AFH Advisory Board member Dr. Brook Choulet and AFH mental health ambassador/Olympian Manteo Mitchell further highlighted the growing movement around athlete mental health in a panel discussion with retired figured skater and broadcaster, Scott Hamilton.
Photo credit: Scottsdale Event Photography, Barret Elengold
Championing Mental Health Through Boxing
In partnership with the World Boxing Council (WBC), WBC Cares, and 555 Media, we helped present Championing Mental Health—a powerful boxing event in Los Angeles headlined by Jonny Mansour. Through our collaboration, every fighter on the card is now eligible to receive a full year of therapy through AFH.
Ahead of the event, we hosted a youth mental health session with Jonny, where students explored the connection between boxing and mental health while engaging with our CHAMPS curriculum. Jonny’s personal story added profound meaning—he dedicated his fight to his mother, who passed away the following day. His resilience and purpose continue to inspire our work.
Leading the Way in Mental Health Advocacy
Throughout May, AFH athletes and staff amplified mental health awareness through social media and community outreach. Athletes like Quade Kelley, Rohan Piple, and Alice Merryweather joined the Kevin Love Fund’s More Than My Sport campaign, while Mina Marie Anglero shared her own mental health reflections on her Instagram. Alex Sachs continued her tradition of running a mental health awareness road race, and Dr. Mena joined SportsRecruits for a Q&A on mental wellness in the recruiting process.
Continuing the Work, All Year Long
At Athletes for Hope, we believe mental health is a year-round priority. We’re grateful for the athletes, partners, schools, and supporters who stood with us throughout Mental Health Awareness Month—and we’re excited to continue this momentum in the months ahead.
Interested in joining our mission to support athlete mental health? Get involved or learn more about our Whole Being Athlete and CHAMPS programs.