Gabby Thomas Joins Athletes for Hope Leadership Council

Olympic track star Gabby Thomas is trading her racing spikes for a new kind of impact, one that reaches hundreds of thousands of kids across America.

The three-time gold medalist just joined Athletes for Hope's Athlete Leadership Council, stepping into a role once held by track legend Jackie Joyner-Kersee. Thomas joins fellow Olympic champions Stephen Curry, Katie Ledecky, Nathan Chen, and Elena Delle Donne in leading the organization founded by sports icons including Muhammad Ali, Mia Hamm, and Andre Agassi.

"Sport has given me so much, and community has always been at the heart of my journey," Thomas said. "Working with Athletes for Hope is an opportunity for me to give back and use my platform to show how sports can make a difference in the lives of others."

Thomas will champion the CHAMPS program, which brings professional, Olympic, Paralympic, and collegiate athletes into elementary schools as mentors. The program uses sports and movement to promote mental wellness, leadership skills, and daily physical activity among underserved students.

The numbers tell an incredible story. Each month, CHAMPS reaches over 318,000 kids across more than 1,300 schools nationwide, using an expert-designed curriculum that builds healthy habits and confidence.

The Ripple Effect

When champion athletes step into classrooms, they bring more than medals. They bring proof that dedication and community support can change lives, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond the track or court.

Thomas brings both athletic credibility and lived experience to the role. She understands how community support shaped her own journey and wants to create those same opportunities for young people who need mentors and encouragement most.

Jason Belinkie, CEO of Athletes for Hope, praised Thomas's commitment to service. "Her commitment to inspiring the next generation will help us expand the reach and impact of our CHAMPS program, empowering young people to build confidence, leadership skills, and lifelong healthy habits," he said.

Thomas begins her work immediately, focusing on youth engagement, athlete mentorship initiatives, and community programming. With global attention building toward the LA28 Olympics, her timing couldn't be better for showing young athletes what's possible when champions give back.

Over 318,000 kids now have another champion in their corner.