When you look up the word “philanthropy” in the dictionary, you’ll find that it means “goodwill to fellow members of the human race.” Despite how you feel about professional athletes and their salaries, a great number of them use their money and power to help those in need, and some have even become known for their philanthropic contributions.
I’m sure you heard that Nnamdi Asomugha signed a five-year $60 million deal with the Philadelphia Eagles this summer, but did you know that Asomugha is the chairman of Orphans and Widows in Need? OWIN supports orphans and widows in Nigeria by providing health care, education, spiritual guidance and vocational training. Asomugha was even awarded with the Jefferson Award for Public Service in 2010, which is given to individuals for their involvement in the community.
Asomugha isn’t the only professional athlete known for his or her philanthropic contributions. Alonzo Mourning, Dwyane Wade, Tim Tebow, Yao Ming, Shane Victorino and Dikembe Mutombo are just a few others. However, you don’t need to be a professional athlete to make a difference in the world.
Did you know NSU student-athletes are quite the philanthropists too? The NSU softball team helped raise money for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation and the American Cancer Society’s breast cancer research fund on Oct. 1. The cross country and track and field teams volunteered at the Publix Escape to Miami Triathlon on Sept. 25. NSU baseball participates in the Miracle League, which gives special needs children the opportunity to play baseball and be a part of a team.
It’s clear you don’t need an eight figure salary to be a philanthropist or make a difference in people’s lives. The question is what have you done for your fellow members of the human race lately?
