How Empathy Fuels Goal 13
By Founder Annie B. Carter
I recently attended a Mama Loves Grief Retreat in California for mothers who have lost children. It was absolutely not the "vacation" I ever imagined I would need to take; however, in spending time with other mothers who understand the loss of a child, I found something incredibly meaningful. There is something very powerful about sitting with people who do not need you to explain your pain because they know it too. Through the heartfelt conversations I had with these amazing women, beautiful friendships blossomed and I experienced empathy in its truest form. These mothers provided a beautiful space for my grief and offered comfort in a way few people can, simply because they have walked a similar path. There is something very powerful about sitting with people who do not need you to explain your pain because they know it too.
As I came home and thought about this transformational experience, I began thinking about how I could use some of what I learned to continue strengthening the work we are doing at Goal 13. During this time of quiet reflection, I realized something very important. I see the same level of empathy displayed every day through Goal 13.
Empathy is more than feeling compassion for someone else. It is choosing to see people, listen to them, understand their needs, and then respond appropriately. At Goal 13, we see empathy through the mentors, volunteers, and donors who continue to support our mission and invest in the young student-athletes we serve. What began as a deep desire to honor Holden's memory has grown into something so much bigger because of the people who have wrapped their arms around this work. Every volunteer who gives their time, every person who shares our mission, every donor who helps fund programming, and every mentor who pours into a young athlete is helping carry Holden's legacy forward in a meaningful way.
The impact of Goal 13 is not only found in lessons, workbooks, events, or programs. It is found in all of the special relationships being built. It is found in all the conversations mentors and volunteers are having with the student-athletes about leadership, character and healthy habits. It is found in the quiet moments when a young person realizes someone believes in them, is listening to them, and wants to help them grow. That is empathy in action.
Our volunteers and mentors are helping create spaces where student-athletes feel encouraged, challenged, and valued. They are helping young people understand who they are becoming matters just as much as what they accomplish in athletics. Through character education and mentorship Goal 13 is working to help student-athletes grow with purpose.
This work would not be possible without the generosity of people who choose to care. Some give their time. Some give resources. Some open doors, make introductions, sponsor events, share posts, attend fundraisers, or simply encourage us to keep going. Every kind act matters. Every kind act helps.
Empathy has the power to move people from simply noticing a need to becoming part of the answer. As Goal 13 continues to grow, we remain deeply grateful for every person who has chosen to be part of this mission. Your support is helping build a foundation for the development of character, confidence, and connection in the lives of young people.
Thank you for showing us what empathy looks like in action. Thank you for helping Goal 13 continue to grow. And thank you for helping us honor Holden's legacy in a way that is changing lives.