America loves looking up to sporting world heroes. We admire their talent, we get caught up in the excitement of what they do, and we look to them to provide diversion from the every-day problems in our lives. The stars of the sporting world are worshipped by the fan base and garnish undivided attention of the media. Unfortunately, these heroes, despite their athletic talents, are not always gifted or willing to put forth an effort when it comes to humanitarian support. As recent incidents will confirm, many athletes are equally talented in finding trouble or controversy off the playing field. This hard fact has left even the most-adoring fans cynical.
The holiday season encourages us to sit back and reflect on the many blessings we have been afforded. Thankfully, we live in a world where kind-hearted people still exist, and are actually eager to give back to those who have contributed to their success, as well as the less fortunate. Some of those kind-hearted people, though rarely recognized, are professional athletes. Many of our heroes have committed themselves to putting their fame, money and social status to good use outside the realm of the sport that has given them so much. They are giving back to others in big ways.
Ben Roethlisberger, along with his family, established a foundation which supports K-9 units of police and fire departments throughout the country. Ben gives a dog to every city department where the Steelers play, and over 100 police dogs, protective gear and training have been donated as of this time. The foundation has made grants totaling over $850,000 since 2006, with special emphasis being placed on Pittsburgh-based departments. The Ben Roethlisberger Foundation also supports various other charities. New York Giants quarterback, Eli Manning, dedicated extraordinary time and financial support to victims of Hurricane Katrina and also raised nearly three million dollars for the University of Mississippi Medical Center’s Children’s Hospital. In 1993, hockey great and current principal owner of the Pittsburgh Penguins, Mario Lemieux, was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease. Now, more than 20 years cancer free, Mario devotes a great deal of time to the Mario Lemieux Foundation, which raises funds to help find a cure for cancer.
Countless athletes from all areas of the sporting world have dedicated themselves to community service, many implementing their own foundations and charitable organizations. While some visit sick children on a regular basis, others volunteer their time to work in soup kitchens and speak to children at schools throughout the country. Rarely do these good deeds reach the mass media.
Professional athletes are granted a platform in the eye of the public. It is up to each of them to choose how to utilize that platform. Some will make the wrong choice, and you can bet we will be made aware when they do. Fortunately, there will also be those who will understand the opportunity and choose wisely. Many will go out of their way to help improve lives, and we can only hope their stories will be given equal attention. Be thankful. Under the helmets, the pads and tougher-than-tough persona, there are good people who not only appreciate their own blessings, but want to pay it forward and help make a difference in the lives of those who may not be as blessed.
