Ninth International Conference on Sport & Society

Abstract

The mission of Athletes for Hope is to educate, connect and recognize athletes giving back to communities in meaningful ways. Measuring impact across multiple variables is the focus of an education program for student athletes in philanthropy. This interactive workshop will engage audience members about best practices in athlete philanthropy and provide insights on athlete engagement in community programs. Participants will utilize skills from this workshop to identify insights in athlete engagement, philanthropy and hear how a university-based student athlete program is changing perceptions and improving outcomes in communities across the US. Program outcomes and framework will highlight changes in communities, student athletes and children in programs where student athletes volunteer. Pre and post program data indicates that student athletes are increasing time spent volunteering in communities, while community partners are reporting positive benefits to having student athletes involved. Impact data and resources for successful athlete engagement in community driven programs will be shared