Uplifting Athletes Funds Rare Disease Research Via College Football
Uplifting Athletes, a nonprofit founded in 2003 by former Penn State football player Scott Shirley, is leveraging the power of college football to fund research for rare diseases. The organization has grown to include nearly two dozen chapters across the U.S., pooling funds to support scientists through its Young Investigator Draft.
Uplifting Athletes uses college football's platform to raise awareness about rare diseases. Players wear patches and stickers during games, bringing attention to causes like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, blinding retinal diseases, and DDX3X syndrome. The organization's Underrepresented Researchers in Medicine initiative ensures diversity among researchers.
The Young Investigator Draft selects early-career scientists working on rare diseases. Awards range from a minimum of $20,000, with half funded by Uplifting Athletes and the other half by the nominating group. In the past three years, the organization has awarded $440,000 to over 20 scientists, including Dr. Jeffrey L. Neul.
Uplifting Athletes' unique approach to funding rare disease research has proven successful, with nearly two dozen chapters supporting the cause. By leveraging college football's platform and promoting diversity among researchers, the organization continues to make a significant impact on the scientific community.
