October Recap: AFH University Service, Advocacy, and Impact Across Campuses
October was a monumental month for Athletes for Hope University (AFH U), as student-athletes across campuses exemplified dedication to community service, advocacy, and mental health awareness. This month, AFH U athletes committed over 975 hours to service, making it one of the most impactful months in the program’s history. From celebrating milestones like Hispanic Heritage Month, Student-Athlete Mental Health Awareness Week and Cancer Awareness Month, participating in other AFH programming to organizing local service events, October was a showcase of the positive influence student-athletes can bring to their communities.
AFH University & AFH Program October Crossovers
AFH U campuses extended their support to other AFH programming, contributing to both CHAMPS and Hospital Heroes. Davidson Track & Field athlete Ryan Harris created an exercise video for the on-demand video element of our CHAMPS program which reaches over 215k children each month. Meanwhile, LSU Baseball and Gymnastics made a heartwarming impact through a visit to Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital, bringing joy and encouragement to young patients.
Additionally, AFH U campuses supported Hilinski’s Hope’s National Student-Athlete Mental Health Awareness Week which our Whole Being Athlete program proudly supports each year. Campus athletic departments and teams participated, reinforcing student-athletes’ commitment to prioritizing mental health.
These efforts underscore AFH U’s dedication to expanding their community reach and supporting wellness beyond their campuses.
Community Service Events Across Campuses
Locally, AFH U student-athletes rolled up their sleeves to make a direct impact on their communities. The Davidson Wildcats led the charge with a variety of projects:
- Davidson Field Hockey teamed up with Continuing the Mission to assist with their work in providing service dogs to North Carolina veterans living with PTSD
- Davidson Women’s Basketball promoted civic engagement by hosting a “Get Out the Vote” table in the City of Davidson
- Davidson Lacrosse and Football volunteered at a local elementary school, supporting the educational environment and engaging with young students
- Davidson Baseball joined the Miracle League of Charlotte, promoting inclusion and supporting athletes of all abilities
- Davidson Football partnered with the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), distributing free coffee to veterans and active service members
- Davidson Women’s Lacrosse supported the HEADstrong Foundation with a cancer awareness game
- Davidson Track & Field organized a campus clean-up at the Ada Jenkins Center, making a tangible difference for local youth
AFH U Baton Rouge student-athletes at LSU and Southern also demonstrated a strong commitment to service:
- LSU Women’s Soccer partnered with Friends of Animals, providing dog grooming and exercise services
- LSU Gymnastics and Southern Baseball teamed up with the Miracle League of Baton Rouge to support youth with disabilities
- LSU held its annual Halloween BOOzar, where student-athletes across sports engaged with children in the Baton Rouge community in a fun and festive environment
AFH U campuses in the DMV area also contributed significantly to their local communities:
- American University Women’s Basketball worked with DC Scores to support a soccer tournament and community festival for elementary students
- Bowie State’s Football and Track & Field SAAC members raised cancer research awareness at a home football game, demonstrating a commitment to health advocacy
Empowerment Workshop and Community-Building
To deepen AFH U’s impact, an empowerment workshop was hosted for Davidson Women’s Basketball, fostering leadership and community engagement skills. This workshop was a step forward in strengthening ties between AFH U and the Davidson community, inspiring student-athletes to become proactive advocates and leaders.
A Record-Breaking Month
With over 975 hours of community service, October marked a record-breaking month for AFH U student-athletes. The efforts of student-athletes across campuses exemplify how sports can be a powerful catalyst for social good, community service, and advocacy.
As AFH U heads into the final months of the year, we celebrate October’s achievements and look forward to continuing our mission of empowering student-athletes to inspire, serve, and uplift their communities.
