New York University Athletics partnered with Uplifting Athletes to host a Lift for Life event on April 7. The initiative brought together over 200 student-athletes from 18 varsity teams, raising nearly $1,400 through workout competitions to support rare disease research.
The collaboration aimed to raise awareness and funds for rare diseases, an area often lacking in resources. The event encouraged teamwork among athletes while highlighting the importance of community-driven support for medical research.
Annabelle Booker, a junior women’s soccer player and event leader, said, “It was great seeing fellow athletes come together to compete and raise money for rare disease research funding. As a pre-medical student who volunteers in a research lab at NYU Langone, I understand firsthand how tough it can be to get funding for research. I am grateful I had the chance to support the rare disease research community and see NYU Athletics step up!”
Uplifting Athletes is a nonprofit organization that uses sports as a platform to build community and invest in those affected by rare diseases. Through its Team UA initiative, student-athletes nationwide are leading fundraising and advocacy efforts that address challenges larger than any single team or campus.
Jeff Baxter, Uplifting Athletes college representative, said, “For me, community is the ultimate competitive advantage against adversity. One of my top core values has always been about building community and ensuring no one faces their toughest challenges alone. Working with the NYU student athletes was an awesome way of building a community around the rare disease families we support. I look forward to working with them for years to come.”
