PFG 2026 Presented by Thrivent
Join Athletes for Hope for a night that brings together leaders in sports, philanthropy, and community to celebrate the power of athletes to make the world a better place—while honoring remarkable champions of service.
The 2026 Play for Good Gala, presented by Thrivent is an evening to celebrate, recognize and appreciate the power of the athletic spirit in making the world a better place for generations. In honor of the 20th Anniversary of Athletes for Hope, the event will highlight two decades of athlete-led impact while looking ahead to the future we are building together. Entertainment, food, drinks and an opportunity to bid on an incredible assortment of live and silent auction items will be provided.
Why Your Support Matters
We’re on a mission to reach one million underserved students with transformative mental health and leadership programming. Your support powers CHAMPS, AFH University, and athlete-led mental health education that equips young people with confidence, resilience, and wellbeing tools. Together, we’re building the next generation of leaders and changemakers.
EVENT HONOREES
An Evening of Inspiration
This year, we are proud to recognize three extraordinary leaders whose influence and service uplift communities worldwide:
- Alan Meltzer — Gordon & Llura Gund Lifetime Hero Award
- Katie Ledecky — Mia Hamm Service Award
- TBA — Morty Gudelsky Community Hero Award
The evening will feature:
- Dinner, drinks, and celebration
- Live entertainment and dancing
- A dynamic live and silent auction
- Powerful stories of service and impact from athletes who inspire change around the world
Schedule (all times ET)
- Doors: 5:00 pm
- Cocktail Reception: 5:30 pm
- Dinner & Program: 6:45 pm
- Wrap: 10:30 pm
PFG 2026 Leadership
Our Gala is guided by an extraordinary group of leaders whose dedication, passion, and service make this celebration possible.
Event Co-Chairs
Christin Blyumin & Susan Miller
Host Committee
Lauren Barber, Michelle Belinkie, Jason Belinkie, Tara Blankinship, Christin Blyumin, Tyler Buccholz, Sylvie Cancellier, Shari Ciapka, John Dragelin, Harris Fanaroff, Rachel Federowicz, Tommy Goodman, Steph Griffith, Meghan Gudelsky, John Harkes, Erin Heath, Adam Hordell, Megan Kimmins, Zach Mann, Max Meltzer, Jennifer Meltzer, Susan Miller, Ben Ratner, Jena Riley, David Roach, Nora Shuler, Glenn Stewart, Erinn Tobin, Diana Venezia, Chris Weiner
Follow the AFH Impact on Social Media
Questions? Please contact dvenezia@athletesforhope.org