Miguel Almirón doesn't put limits on his leadership. Atlanta United's captain acts like one, both on and off the pitch.
This past week, Almirón donated a total of $50,000 to two community organizations: Agape Youth and Family Center and CURE Childhood Cancer. He chose to focus on providing resources for underserved youth and childhood cancer patients. Now back in Atlanta for a second stint after originally representing the inaugural squad, Almirón is continuing his mission to give back to the city that's always shown him love and support over the years.
"When I arrived in Atlanta in 2017, the city welcomed me and helped me when I was young," Almirón said. "I’m forever grateful for that and want to try to return the affection that Atlanta has given me."
But that's not all. Miggy went boots-on-ground, visiting Agape and CURE and making memories in the process. For a man who always seems to be grinning, his smile was even wider at the excitement and energy of the kids. At Agape, an entire gymnasium full of children were surprised by the Atlanta United star during their after-school program Wednesday, Sept. 17.
Agape's mission is to empower children and families from under-resourced communities and end generational poverty. The non-profit serves more than 200 children and families every year, and they provide academic support and life skills training in hopes of lifting up and inspiring Atlanta's youth.
“We are deeply honored to be chosen and seen by one of Atlanta’s finest athletes and a global soccer star,” Agape CEO Nell Benn said. “Miguel’s generosity and presence made an extraordinary impact on our students and families, reminding them that they are valued and their dreams matter.”
At Arthur M. Blank Hospital CURE Childhood Cancer Thursday, Sept. 18, Almirón served dinner to pediatric cancer patients and their families with CURE. The organization supports patients and families financially and emotionally as they brave the treatment process and contributes to cancer research. Instead of cutting through defenders on the pitch, Almirón was cutting pieces of cake for smiling children.
“We are humbled and honored by Miguel Almirón’s support,” said CURE CEO Kristin Connor. “His gift will provide critical support to children with cancer and their families in their hardest moments and advance the research that can change their future. We are sincerely grateful.”
Some of the families who benefited from Almirón's donations sent in videos thanking Miggy and giving him even more personal insight into how his generousity is affecting people.
Almirón has a history of being a role model citizen in his community. Back at home in Asunción, Paraguay, he created a foundation called Sembrando Felicidad, in English Planting Happiness. The organization provides meals to local hospitals and a cafeteria in the neighborhood where he grew up.
The now international soccer star was once in a similar positions to the children he served last Wednesday. His parents worked long hours throughout his childhood to give him the opportunity to attend training sessions with his local club.
“I always say that soccer has given me a lot, and I try to help people, especially children, because they deserve every opportunity for their future," Almirón said. "I also lived it myself as a child and know what happens when you’re in need. It was an honor to visit with children from both organizations and I look forward to working closely with them in the future.”
