(Podcast length - 5:20 mins)
If volunteering reduces depression and early mortality rates, these athletes will be the happiest centenarians.
Transcript
1. 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 many moments to make you smile, like when he had a tea party with one Make-A-Wish visitor decked out in his full wrestling regalia. Cena set a new Guinness World Record for granting the most wishes through Make-A-Wish at 650. No one, except for Cena, has ever granted more than 200 wishes in the foundation's history. TINY UNIFORM, BIG HEART
2. NBA Hall of Famer and broadcaster Shaquille O'Neal is known for his random acts of kindness. From buying an engagement ring for a fellow customer at a jewelry store to purchasing shoes for a 13-year-old boy with size 18 feet to a new car and food for a family in need, may Shaq's generosity inspire us all this holiday season to do more good. PAY IT FORWARD
3. 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 five has made a considerable impact on his young fans all over the world. In one instance, he invited a Syrian orphan who lost 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
4. From donating $43,000 prize money to relief funds for raging Australian bushfires after her Australia Open win to serving as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Serena Williams is the GOAT in giving back. Through UNICEF, Williams has been an outspoken advocate for education worldwide, but she never forgot where she came from. She and her sister Venus have been invested in causes like the Yetunde Price Resource Center, which offers healing-centered and trauma-informed programs to the residents of their hometown of Compton, CA.
5. Love him or hate him, LeBron James (NBA -National Basketball Association) has left the community better than he found it. While he has worked countless hours with organizations that support children, like Boys & Girls Clubs of America, his big project is the I Promise School in Akron, OH. The school serves over 450 at-risk third through sixth graders. In its first year, the year-round school saw growth among 90% of students who started the school year at least one year behind. The school engages the entire family with an on-campus Family Resource Center and regular events requiring parent participation to create a supportive environment both in the classroom and at home. CHANGING THE FUTURE
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
