Uplifting Athletes is a non-profit organization which harnesses the power of sport to build a community that invests in the lives of those affected by rare diseases.
The organization was founded in 2003 by a group of Penn State Nittany Lions football players who turned an annual weightlifting competition, Lift for Life, into a fundraiser.
[1] Two of Shirley's teammates, offensive tackle Damone Jones and center Dave Costlow, saw an opportunity for student-athletes to use their high-profile and access to the media to promote awareness and raise funds for under-served charities.
[2] The competition features teams of four players competing in 11 strength and conditioning events, such as bench press and the "giant tire flip.
The student-athletes learned from industry experts and guest lecturers about such things a better decision making, budgeting, and marketing.