A curated list of former professional athletes who have successfully transitioned into executive roles, leveraging their platforms and discipline to drive significant impact in major non-profit organizations.
Get targeted exposure with custom position pinning and highlighted placement.
Beyond his iconic basketball career, Jordan founded the Michael Jordan Charitable Foundation, focusing on education and youth development. He has been a pivotal figure in advancing racial equality through the Sports Illustrated 'I Can't Breathe' initiative and supporting various educational institutions.
Magic Johnson Enterprises demonstrates his business acumen, but his Magic Johnson Foundation specifically targets health and social issues. He leads initiatives in HIV/AIDS awareness, urban agriculture, and community empowerment, leveraging his global platform to address critical public health challenges.
Wade established the Wade's Worthy Foundation, which provides resources to at-risk youth and promotes social justice. His non-profit work focuses on education, health, and economic empowerment, often collaborating with communities to create sustainable programs for underserved populations.
Love co-founded the More Than a Vote Foundation with his wife, Aiva, to combat voter suppression and increase civic engagement. The organization works to empower communities of color through education, advocacy, and direct support for voting access in key democratic processes.
A prolific author and activist, Abdul-Jabbar uses his platform to advocate for social justice and civil rights. He is actively involved in educational programs and cultural institutions, focusing on preserving history and promoting equity through media and community outreach initiatives.
The I PROMISE School initiative is a cornerstone of LeBron James Family Foundation, providing holistic support to at-risk children in Akron. The organization offers resources ranging from tuition assistance to job placement for families, aiming to break the cycle of poverty through education.
Tebow founded The Tebow Foundation, which supports orphan care, child rescue, and family stability programs globally. His non-profit work focuses on providing safe environments for children and supporting families in crisis, utilizing his athletic fame to draw attention to these humanitarian causes.
Kaepernick co-founded the Know Your Rights Camp, which educates young people about civil liberties and social justice issues. The organization empowers marginalized communities through workshops and community building, focusing on political awareness and activism as tools for systemic change.
The Tiger Woods Foundation focuses on building educational and community-based programs to help at-risk youth. Through golf and academic initiatives, the foundation aims to develop character and leadership skills, providing opportunities for youth who lack access to such resources.
Hamm co-founded Play for P.E., a non-profit dedicated to expanding physical education opportunities for underserved students. The organization works to ensure that all children have access to the health benefits and life skills learned through physical activity and sports participation.
While primarily remembered for his career, Russell's legacy continues through organizations like the Bill Russell Family Foundation. The foundation supports civil rights initiatives and educational programs, honoring Russell's lifelong commitment to social justice and equality in sports and society.
Joyner-Kersee established the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation, which promotes health, wellness, and academic success for youth. The non-profit focuses on empowering young people through athletics and education, providing mentorship and resources to help them achieve their full potential.
In addition to his general foundation, Magic Johnson leads specific health initiatives through the Magic Johnson Foundation's health branch. He actively supports HIV prevention and treatment programs, particularly within minority communities, using his influence to reduce stigma and increase testing.
Jeter supports the Boys & Girls Clubs of America through his Derek Jeter Foundation, which focuses on youth development and education. His initiatives often involve community events and scholarships, aiming to provide positive role models and opportunities for young athletes.
Shaq's Shaqtin' Funny and various charitable efforts include supporting literacy and health initiatives. He actively engages with the Boys & Girls Clubs and supports educational programs, using his charisma to encourage youth participation in learning and community service.
Mahomes co-founded the Mahomes 12 Foundation, which supports families and children facing adversity. The non-profit provides financial assistance, educational resources, and community support, focusing on creating stability and opportunity for families in need.
The Serena Williams Fund supports education, health, and wellness programs for women and girls. Her non-profit work focuses on expanding opportunities for women in business and sports, providing scholarships and mentorship to help them achieve leadership roles in their communities.
The TB12 Foundation focuses on injury prevention and healthy living, particularly for young athletes. The organization provides resources on proper training techniques and mental health support, aiming to create a generation of healthier and more informed athletes.
The Mamba Sports Foundation promotes the importance of sports and education in young people's lives. It focuses on creating platforms for youth to develop their athletic and academic skills, encouraging them to strive for excellence in all areas of life.
Expanding on the I PROMISE School, LeBron James leads broader initiatives to support Akron families. The non-profit provides job training, housing assistance, and health resources, creating a comprehensive support system for at-risk families to foster long-term stability and success.