For the first time ever, student-athletes have the opportunity to earn money based on their Name, Image and Likeness. For some, this shift in the world of college sports can help provide a new income.
“How can I put my NIL money to the best use?”
One option is to donate some to a philanthropic organization (charity). While donating may not feel like the most glamorous use of your money, the effect it has on an individual and the community goes deep. Research even shows that nearly all Division 1 student-athletes volunteer a few hours each year, and 50% serve at least a few hours a month for both local and national organizations.
“It makes me feel like I'm doing the right things I'm supposed to do. And it's keeping me level-headed with football, school, and then helping out in the community.” - Jordan Turner, Wisconsin Football
"What can volunteering do for me?”
But the benefits of volunteering don’t stop there. Volunteering can also:
Help counteract the effects of stress
Boost happiness
Improve mental health and overall well-being
Plus, U.S. nonprofits need people like you to help support their mission. In fact, 8 out of 10 philanthropic causes rely on volunteers to do their jobs.
Why give and volunteer?
Sources:
1. VolunteerMatch impact report
2. Independent Sector
3. Americorps.gov
Whether the donation is time or money, giving can go a long way.
"A piece of all of my NIL deals goes to the LA Food Bank Backpack Program, where kids in the LAUSD school system [are allowed] free lunch during the week [and] get meals on the weekend, so that they can have food." - Chase Griffin, UCLA Football
“How do I get started?”
Charitable organizations span a variety of categories, but we suggest starting with something you’re passionate about. Afterwards, do your research on a resource like volunteermatch.org to find organizations whose work will affect your community. This resource allows you to:
Search for free
Connect with more than 130,000 nonprofits in the U.S.
Research by zip code, cause, areas of interest or skills
Once you find an opportunity of interest, reach out to the organization to determine the best way you can donate time or some of your NIL earnings to help make a difference.
Donating time and money to charity is a selfless act of giving that creates a ripple effect on communities and generations to come. If you are a student-athlete with NIL money coming in, consider giving back and setting an example for other student-athletes. You’ll feel the positive effect alongside those you helped support.
“I feel incredibly blessed that I’ve been able to use my NIL for good and to build up Big Man Big Heart into what it is today.” - Dillan Gibbons, Florida State Football