A MESSAGE FROM Daniel A. Garcia
From my earliest years, sports have been an integral part of my life. Growing up in inner-city Chicago, in an underserved community, expensive programs were simply out of reach. I was incredibly fortunate that my parents, recognizing the immense value of physical activity and teamwork, took full advantage of free and subsidized sports programs.
These opportunities, much like those supported by Laureus USA today, were foundational in shaping my character and who I am.
Through every practice and game, these programs taught me invaluable life lessons. They instilled in me a deep sense of confidence, showed me how to interact effectively with others, and helped me forge lasting friendships. Crucially, I learned how to embrace criticism, transforming it into a powerful tool for growth and improvement on the playing field and beyond.
As Nelson Mandela, Laureus's founding patron, famously said, "Sport has the power to change the world." I experienced this firsthand; sport truly bridges divides, brings communities together, improves physical and mental health, and teaches vital life skills like confidence and leadership.
Now, as I prepare to tackle the iconic New York City Marathon, I'm not just running for myself. I'm running to honor the incredible impact sports have had on my life and to help ensure that more young people in underserved communities have access to these transformative experiences.
Laureus USA supports the growth of organizations that are using sport as a tool for social change, just like the programs that shaped me. Since 2012, they've invested over $33 million, positively impacting the lives of more than 1 million young people.
Your support will help Laureus USA continue this vital work, empowering the next generation to build confidence, forge connections, and learn resilience through the power of sport. Please consider donating to my fundraising page and help me cross the finish line for this incredible cause!
