Athletes for Hope

CHAMPS participants took on the ACC Women’s Basketball Tournament for an unforgettable #InternationalWomensDay! ??? With the support of ESPN students, teachers, and families from Greensboro, NC, experienced exclusive moments—Fan Fest’s Chalk Talk with legends like Muffet McGraw and Ivory Latta, high-fiving UNC and NC State players, and even joining the on-court action! A day of basketball, empowerment, and celebrating the impact of women in sports. ???? Relive the Champs experience - more about the day on our website! ?? https://lnkd.in/g3k7zcPK

In honor of Women’s History Month, Mina Marie Anglero M.A. is hosting a special IG Live series featuring powerful one-on-one conversations with the women of Athletes for Hope. ??? We’ll be diving into what Women’s History Month means to us, the female role models who have shaped our journeys, and the challenges and triumphs of being women in sports and advocacy. Stay tuned for live conversations happening throughout the end of March! More details coming soon as we celebrate resilience, leadership, and impact! AFH Instagram: https://lnkd.in/g7VqpB3v #WomensHistoryMonth #LiveWithMina

Billie Jean King: Breaking Barriers, Changing the Game ?? Billie Jean King didn’t just play the game - she redefined it. From defeating Bobby Riggs in the legendary “Battle of the Sexes” to fighting for equal pay, gender equity, and athlete mental health, Billie Jean King proved that sports are bigger than competition—they’re about justice, opportunity, and the power of using your platform for change. Her impact still echoes today, reminding us that when one athlete rises, we all rise. #BillieJeanKing #WomensHistoryMonth2025

We were beyond excited to celebrate #InternationalWomensDay with participants of our CHAMPS program at the ACC Women’s Basketball Tournament in Greensboro, NC! Thanks to ESPN Citizenship, the girls and their families, teachers and coaches got to attend Fan Fest’s Chalk Talk (hearing directly from greats like Muffet McGraw and Ivory Latta!) and attend both games with powerhouse matchups. The girls even got to do the high-five tunnel for the UNC and NC State players and participate in the on-court games and t-shirt tosses. ?? What a day to celebrate our CHAMPS participants and recognizing women in and out of sports. ????

Success comes with a target. Derek Anderson opens up about the harsh realities pro athletes face—navigating jealousy, false accusations, and constant scrutiny. Tune in for real talk on staying grounded through it all. Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify Podcasts. ?? YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gX-TKHnE Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gKCxhzYZ

The first CHAMPS visit of the semester was nothing short of electric ??? LSU Gymnastics, LSU Cheer, and even Mike the Tiger brought the energy to LA Key Academy, where elementary students lit up the room with excitement! The athletes shared their journeys, what it means to be a true TIGER, and led a high-energy discussion on courage, leadership, and teamwork. The kids even came up with words that spelled out TIGER, showing just how much they were soaking in the message! ???? Huge shoutout to our LSU athletes for making this visit so special!????

During Athlete Mental Health Week (Feb. 1-9), we had a CHAMPS visit that truly stuck with us. Paralympic rower Jenny Sichel PLY, MPA and AFH’s Chief Well-Being Officer, Mena Mirhom, MD, FAPA joined students, teachers, and parents at PE Family Life Academy Charter Schools in the Bronx for an important conversation on mental health, resilience, and the power of sharing your story. For Jenny, this wasn’t just another visit—she’s been building a connection with these students. “This was my third CHAMPS session with Mr. Joe’s class and the students at Family Life Academy in the Bronx. It has been an amazing experience getting to know everyone at the school. I have loved being able to share my story and knowledge with the kids both virtually and in-person. Everyone was so engaged, and the questions really showed that the students were listening.” – Jenny Sichel Alongside Jenny, Dr. Mena Mirhom emphasized that mental wellness isn’t just a side conversation—it’s at the core of what makes athletes thrive. From students to Olympians, mental health is something we all need to care for. These visits aren’t just moments—they’re conversations that stick. Huge thanks to Jenny, Dr. Mena, and ESPN Citizenship for making this happen! ??

Jackie Joyner-Kersee: A powerhouse on the track and a champion for the next generation. A six-time Olympic medalist, world record-holder, and one of the greatest athletes of all time, Jackie didn’t just break barriers, she shattered them. Off the track, she’s empowering youth through the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation, ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed. This Women’s History Month, we’re celebrating her legacy—and today, we’re wishing her a happy 63rd birthday! ?? Read more about her incredible impact on our website. https://lnkd.in/g2iQU3wq

?? Black History Month Spotlight: Kaila Anthony ?? Meet Kaila Anthony, the powerhouse Baton Rouge Magnet High School junior who took home the win for our 2025 Black History Essay Contest! Her inspiring essay honored her godmother, Dr. Kourtni Atkins-Luster, a Family Nurse Practitioner, entrepreneur, and mentor, who's changing the game in healthcare and community service. ?? Kaila’s achievements go beyond academics — with a 4.0 GPA, she’s actively involved in her community, from serving as Top Teen President of the Nonpareil Chapter of Top Teens of America to participating in initiatives like the Dance Club, Children’s Care Club, and youth programs with the East Baton Rouge Council on Aging. Her dedication to leadership and service is shaping a brighter future. ? Congrats, Kaila, you’re unstoppable! Read more about her story on our website: https://lnkd.in/gh45abtd

Join us on May 5th at Kenwood Country Club for AFH’s 3rd Annual Putt for Passion Golf Tournament! ???♂?? Spend the day on the course, take part in exciting competitions, bid on exclusive auction items, and enjoy a Cinco de Mayo-themed reception—all while supporting athlete mental health through our Whole Being Athlete program. ?? Where: Kenwood Country Club, Bethesda, MD?? When: Monday, May 5 | 12 PM Shotgun Start | 5 PM Reception ? Register here - https://lnkd.in/gb-XxrQH All proceeds support Whole Being Athlete, providing education, advocacy, and mental health resources for athletes.