Jalen Hurts joins Stephen Curry on Athletes for Hope Leadership Council

Jalen Hurts is expanding his work away from football by joining some of the world’s most recognizable athletes in a national effort centered on service and youth empowerment.

Athletes for Hope announced Thursday that the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback and Super Bowl MVP has joined its Athlete Leadership Council. The nonprofit helps professional, Olympic, Paralympic, college and high school athletes identify charitable interests and connect with community organizations. Hurts joins a leadership group that includes Stephen Curry, Katie Ledecky, Nathan Chen, Elena Delle Donne, Gabby Thomas and Ezra Frech.

In his new role, Hurts will support youth-centered programs, mentor developing student-athletes, and help guide the organization’s community initiatives. The partnership gives Hurts another avenue to use his platform to support young people.

That work has already become a significant part of his profile away from the Eagles. The Jalen Hurts Foundation focuses on strengthening communities and creating opportunities for young people. His “Keep It Cool” initiative has helped Philadelphia-area schools purchase air-conditioning systems, while his children’s book, “Better Than a Touchdown,” promotes perseverance, teamwork and confidence.

Hurts will also support Athletes for Hope’s CHAMPS program, which uses sports to promote leadership, physical activity and mental wellness. According to the organization, the program reaches more than 400,000 elementary school students each month. Founded in 2006 by a group that included Muhammad Ali, Mia Hamm, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, and Warrick Dunn, Athletes for Hope has developed into the country’s largest athlete-led sports philanthropy nonprofit.

Hurts’ addition gives the organization another prominent leader committed to helping young athletes understand how sports can create influence far beyond the playing field.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Jalen Hurts joins Stephen Curry on Athletes for Hope Leadership Council