PHOENIX – The Michael Phelps Foundation today launched the Thrive Together Challenge, inviting individuals and teams across the country to help expand access to water safety and mental wellness education. The campaign runs October 20 through December 18, including Giving Tuesday
Every qualifying team that raises $2,500 will receive one cap signed by Michael Phelps. Eligible U.S.-based sports-related teams reaching that milestone will also receive one entry into a drawing for a shared, 30-minute virtual visit with Phelps, featuring conversation and questions from the winning team. Individual fundraisers who raise $50 will receive an MPF Thrive Champion keychain, while those who raise $100 will receive both the keychain and a custom MPF Squishy Cube. Drawing eligibility and entry details are outlined in the official rules.
Funds raised will support and expand the Foundation’s IM Program, which pairs learn-to-swim instruction and water safety education with lessons in mental wellness, healthy living and goal setting. Participants learn skills for feeling safer around water while practicing how to understand their emotions, build resilience and approach challenges with confidence
“Every child deserves the opportunity to feel safe, build confidence and learn how to take care of their mental health,” said Michael Phelps, founder of the Michael Phelps Foundation. “You don’t have to be a swimmer to help make that possible. The Thrive Together Challenge is a way for anyone to get involved, bring their community together and help us reach more kids and make more of an impact.”
Families, friends, schools, workplaces, community organizations and all sports teams can participate by creating fundraising pages and inviting their communities to contribute. No swimming experience or affiliation is required. Participants can fundraise individually or as part of a team, set their own goals and share why the Foundation’s mission matters to them
Campaign contributions will provide training for program leaders, educational materials and grants that help participating organizations deliver IM locally. Additional support will help bring the program to more communities and strengthen re
To date, the Foundation has reached more than 180,000 people across all 50 states and more than 35 countries. Through collaborations with organizations including Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Special Olympics International and Nemours KidsHealth®, the Foundation helps make water safety and mental wellness education more accessible
To learn more, download the Team Fundraising Guide, start or join a team, or make a donation, visit michaelphelpsfoundation.org/thrive
