If volunteering reduces depression and early mortality rates, these athletes are going to be the happiest centenarians around.
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[Transcript]
1. International soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo is known for his cover model looks, supreme soccer skills and the big payday those bring in. While he’s not afraid to write a significant check, he’s also been known to roll up his sleeves, literally, as a frequent blood donor. The father of four has made a huge impact on his young fans all over the world. In one instance, he invited a Syrian orphan, who lost both his parents in the war, to a game and spent time with him. He has also paid for numerous children’s lifesaving medical treatments. His signature move is auctioning off coveted trophies he’s been awarded with the proceeds going to charity. INTERNATIONAL MAN OF GOOD
2. John Cena’s heart is bigger than his biceps. The WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) wrestler’s mantra is “Never Give Up” and that’s what he’s told the countless Make-A-Wish kids he’s met with. There are so many moments to make you smile like the time he had a tea party with one Make-A-Wish visitor, while decked out in his full wrestling regalia. Because of the orchestrated nature of his sport, he’s even gone as far as to weave certain moves requested by the kids into his “performance” during a matchup. TINY UNIFORM, BIG HEART
3. Love him or hate him, LeBron James (NBA -National Basketball Association) has left the community better than he found it. His big project is the I Promise School in Akron, OH. The school serves 204 at-risk third and fourth graders and even though it’s only been open one year, they’re seeing positive results. The year-round school has seen growth among the 90% of students – who started the school year at least one year behind grade level – met or exceeded their expected growth in math and reading. CHANGING THE FUTURE
4. Newly engaged couple P.K. Subban (New Jersey Devils, NHL – National Hockey League) and Lindsey Vonn (former U.S. Olympic skier) have charity work in common. Both are a force for good on their own but together they just might change the world. She hosts an annual Strong Girls Camp, where she works to increase confidence in young girls.
Subban has left a mark for good in every community he’s touched. He gave $10 million to the Montreal Children's Hospital but his most impactful work might be his Blueline Buddies program. He provided tickets to each Nashville Predators game (his former team), one for an officer and one for a young person and their guests. He did this in hopes of creating unity between law enforcement and the community. We’ll see what he has in store for New Jersey when the season starts next month. POWER COUPLE
5. No act goes unnoticed and Virginia’s head men’s basketball coach made a selfless choice that will benefit so many others. After winning the first ever national championship for the school, coach Tony Bennett recently turned down a raise. In an unprecedented move, he asked that the money be given to his assistant coaches and the school. He also pledged $500,000 toward a career development program for current and former UVA basketball players. GOOD GUY
