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OUR HISTORY
HOW ABC SPORTS FOUNDATION STARTED — AND WHERE WE'RE HEADED
OUR WHY
Too often, athletes are unsure of how to build their brand, give back to their communities, or prepare for life after sports. Even with the best agents, they’re told to "start a nonprofit" or “give back”—but not how. We step in to make it as easy as ABC.
Whether it's a parent trying to run a toy drive, a college athlete navigating NIL, or a high school athlete dreaming of more than just a football camp, ABC is the trusted guide on their journey. And we don’t stop at athletes—we equip families, coaches, and communities to understand and support the full picture.
HOW ABC BEGAN?
At ABC Sports Foundation, our roots are personal. Founded by Ashley Danielle Allen—a Nashville native, former athlete, and seasoned sports industry professional—ABC was born out of a firsthand understanding of what athletes really need, and what they’re too often missing.
Ashley’s journey began on the fields and courts of Tennessee, later becoming a professional dancer and earning degrees from Tennessee State University and Nashville School of Law. Working behind the scenes with professional teams and sports networks, she saw the gap: most athletes, especially those not in the top 1%, were left without real support when it came to creating legacy, making community impact, and preparing for life beyond the game.
ABC—short for Athletes. Business. Community.—was created to change that.
HOW WE'VE GROWN
What started as nonprofit management services for NFL players has evolved into a full-circle development model serving:
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Middle School, High School & College Athletes – through workshops, NIL education, leadership development, and more
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Parents & Families – with training and resources to help them support athlete journeys
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Professional & Retired Athletes – with fiscal sponsorships, events, brand building, and transition support
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Businesses & Brands – with mission-driven partnerships and community activation
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Communities – with sports-led programs in health, wellness, mentorship, and arts
KEY MILESTONES
2019 ABC Sports Foundation officially launched
2021 Launched fiscal sponsorship program
2023 Expanded to international programming with NFL Flag Bahamas
2024 First athlete NIL summit hosted
2025 Surpassed 10,000 youth impacted through camps and community events