On Saturday April 28, the Foundation for Global Sports Development hosted their biennial Humanitarian Award Event at the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills, CA.
Former athletes, paralympians, and advocates of the cause all joined forces to support these courageous women of the gymnastics community.
“These gymnasts have been fighting hard…for all of us,” said Kristen Bell, Actress and Advocate. “Fighting the men that abused them, but also, and maybe more importantly, fighting the silence.”
“Let’s start by listening to, honoring, and supporting a movement that seems to hold all of us accountable. "
- Dr. Steven Ungerleider, Vice President FGSD
The Foundation for Global Sports Development Humanitarian Award is presented to individuals and organizations that have stepped up as leaders and champions for equality, or social, economic, political, or environmental justice. This award honors those who actively fight against indifference, injustice, and intolerance.
Present to accept the 2018 Humanitarian Award on behalf of all of the survivors were:
Alexis Alvarado
Christina Baker Barba
Larissa Boyce
Charmaine Carnes
Amy Compton
Monica Lenches
Anne Malver
Sabrina Mar
Morgan McCaul
Emily Meinke
Emma Ann Miller
Alexis Moore
Danielle Moore
Jessica Smith
Heather Stevenson Kelly
Amanda Thomashow
Makayla Thrush
Denise Gallion
Megan Ginter
Trinea Gonczar
Megan Halicek
Christine Harrison
Sarah Klein
Not a dry eye was in the house. More than 125 guests attended this intimate red carpet cocktail reception and gala. Honorees opened up about their experiences with Doug Boger and Larry Nassar, further displaying their badge of courage. The bond that was felt amongst these sister survivors provided a feeling of sincere strength that attendees will hold in their hearts forever.
In addition to recognizing the survivors with the prestigious Humanitarian Award, the foundation has designated $1 million to develop a nationwide abuse prevention education program. The foundation’s leaders, David Ulich and Dr. Steven Ungerleider, share a vision for every child to experience the joy of sport in a safe environment. This program will be launched in collaboration with Childhelp, an international leader in child abuse prevention and awareness.
“When women speak up about certain things it makes you reflect about things that happen in your own life that you put in the past and it gives you courage to speak up on things you’ve been through.” – Josina Anderson, Emmy Award Winner and ESPN NFL Insider
Learn more about the Foundation for Global Sports Development by following them on Instagram at www.instagram.com/globalsportsd and by visiting www.globalsportsdevelopment.org
