Athletics, Puerto Rico
Growing up with multiple siblings, family and community was at the heart of Ayden’s upbringing. When he was 10 years old, an earthquake destroyed Haiti and many orphan children were brought to the U.S. seeking asylum. Ayden’s mother volunteered at an orphanage in Pittsburgh and brought Ayden and his siblings along. Ayden interacted with the children at the orphanage, teaching them English, playing games and reading with them. It was there his passion for volunteering was born. Ayden started volunteering with The Boys and Girls Club of Puerto Rico (Vieques), whose mission is to offer young people hope for a better future and opportunities for them to develop their full potential. They provide a safe place where children learn skills to become leaders who achieve their academic, personal and professional goals. The organization has fed more than 50,000 people through their food programs and impacted more than 5,000 children and adults through their workshops, distribution of materials and mentorship. Ayden has educated and taught the youth about track and field and the positive impact it can have on their lives.
The P&G 2024 Athletes For Good grant will allow the organization to rebuild play structures damaged by past hurricanes.