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The Times of India
The Times of India
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TOI World Desk

In 2008, Michael Phelps used his $1 million Olympic bonus to start a foundation; by 2020, it had reached 100,000+ young people

Michael Phelps Olympics Swimming Mental Health Beijing Covid-19 Pandemic

Winning eight gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics brought Michael Phelps worldwide recognition, but the swimmer also wanted to use his success to make a difference beyond the pool. He put his $1 million sponsor bonus towards establishing the Michael Phelps Foundation, an initiative focused on encouraging swimming, water safety and healthy living among young people. According to Boys & Girls Clubs of America, one of the foundation’s early efforts was a nationwide tour promoting his “Dream, Plan, Reach” message. Over the following years, its programmes expanded to include mental health education, reaching children through partnerships with youth organisations.

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