Preparing to Lead

We mobilize a generation of promising university student-athletes to drive our work in middle schools and the community. Our athletes are not just volunteers at Grassroots Health– they help drive our day-to-day operations at all levels. Student-athletes work in our headquarters, through internships focused on curriculum development, communications, and training.

Every year we recruit and train hundreds of NCAA varsity athletes to become Grassroots Coaches, nurturing their leadership and cultural competency. Grassroots Coaches participate in an intensive, four day training session to build skill in curriculum delivery, health literacy, cultural competency and classroom facilitation skills.

Inspiring Fellow Athletes

Each summer, we train a select group of athletes to recruit and lead their fellow student-athletes as Training Fellows. The fellowship includes eight weeks of in-depth learning and application, including a ten day abroad experience where athletes interact with GrassrootSoccer in South Africa, one of Grassroots original partners. Learning from our international partners gives our volunteers the opportunity to contextualize their work as it relates to global health needs.

The Lasting Impact of Giving Back

Because of their time working closely with students and communities, many of our athletes have been inspired to pursue careers in the public sector, from going to medical school to entering the Peace Corps and Teach for America.