Question

As stated in the Journal of Sports Management article that you read, the last paragraph states: " Giving is taking place by athletes, and that is a fortunate thing, but unless that giving is managed and done in a transparent and strategic manner, we will not know what the impact is".

• Do you think professional athletes should be required to give back to their community?
• What is one celebrity that you feel has impacted the world through their charity work? Why? Has this made you become more of a "fan"?
• What are your thoughts on celebrities and professional athletes who manage to give back? Do you think it's genuine or a public relations boost?

Answer 1

Professional athletes are required to give back to community and reasons are outlined. It may be possible that professional athletes use philanthropic activities to build their own brand image. Professional athletes practice charity for altruistic purpose as well. Thus, some professional athletes involve in charity for strategic advantage and some other athletes offer charity without any personal interest. But with such act other broader impact of professional athletes’ charity is found such as awareness towards enhanced health, fitness and wellbeing among public. Professional athletes can become role model for their followers and such followers can adopt professional athletes’ healthy habits. Professional athletes’ contribution to society enhances social wellbeing and brings prosperity and development of local economy. Cohesion and engagement are also fostered when professional athletes contribute to charity. Therefore, there are many benefits offered to the society and thus, professional athletes should be required to contribute to society development.

One celebrity that I know has impacted the world by his charity work is Oprah Winfrey who continuously donated funds for societal causes. She gave money for children protection, and to provide relief from natural calamities. She also spent a good amount of money to improve healthcare and education. I have been a fan of her not because she is a very good presenter and has a good personality but her charity helps individuals, and society. She has cared right of children and women who are vulnerable groups for exploitation. Such nice gesture and empathy demonstrated by Oprah makes her an ideal citizen. Therefore, I become a fan of her.

As far as celebrities and professional athletes giving money to society for welfare purposes, it can be said that they do for strategic gain and for altruistic purposes. Thus, it is very difficult to say that athletes and celebrities are engaged only for brand building and strategic advantage. Even if they are involved in public relations activities, still their charity help social and economic development. Therefore, their act is considered genuine that supports many needy and poor people who require support and care and such charitable act brings prosperity and stability in society.