MORE THAN A CHAMPION:
Simone Biles’ Legacy Of Impact With Friends Of The Children
MORE THAN A CHAMPION:
Simone Biles’ Legacy Of Impact With Friends Of The Children
In a monumental year for both Simone Biles and Friends of the Children, the World Champion gymnast and youth advocate stood as a powerful ambassador for our organization with every opportunity. As Friends of the Children celebrated our growing impact, Simone’s voice, presence, and heart elevated our mission to new heights—amplifying the power of long-term, professional mentoring and empowering youth across the country.
Simone’s personal journey with foster care and mental health challenges mirrors the experiences of many youth in our program. That is why when she discovered Friends of the Children, she found more than a cause—she found a purpose.
“I have always wondered what my legacy would be, what I could do to give back…and then I found Friends of the Children,” said Simone at our 30th Anniversary Gala in Santa Monica last fall where she was honored as a Champion for Children.
Recognized along with our founders, Duncan and Cindy Campbell, Simone shared: “There was an instant connection because I have gone through what these kids have gone through. I have grown through what these kids are going to grow through. I can see myself in these kids who just need someone who believes in them and that is exactly what Friends of the Children does.”
Her words resonated with everyone in the room—philanthropists, industry magnets, celebrities, network leaders, Friends, and youth alike. That night raised $3 million to expand our impact, funds that will bring professional mentoring to even more youth and families.
I can see myself in these kids who just need someone who believes in them and that is exactly what Friends of the Children does.”
– SIMONE BILES
Simone spotlighted our organization again when she was named 2024 Sports Illustrated’s Sportsperson of the Year, donating a full-page ad featuring Friends of the Children in the magazine and giving a heartfelt shoutout to “my friends at Friends of the Children,” during her acceptance speech at the award ceremony. Time and time again, Simone uses any opportunity to leverage her global platform to champion our work.
Simone brings that same enthusiasm to every interaction she has with youth in our program. In May, she joined hundreds of youth from across our network for a special virtual video call celebrating National Foster Care Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, and Simone’s smile and energy were infectious. She shared her own story, answered thoughtful questions, and led powerful affirmations like: “I am strong. I can do hard things. I am brave. I am one of one.” Youth saw themselves in Simone, and they felt seen, valued, and inspired.
In 2022, Simone helped launch our Houston chapter in her hometown. This year Simone, her husband Jonathan Owens, and the rest of the Biles family welcomed the Friends of the Children — Houston youth to the Simone Biles Invitational at the World Champions Centre where she gifted them an Olympic medal and an autographed plaque for their clubhouse. At every turn, she has created unforgettable memories that remind our youth they matter.
As she continues to break records and barriers, Simone remains grounded in what matters most: showing up for kids. Her unwavering support ensures more youth across the country have a champion in their corner and a mentor by their side for 12+ years, no matter what. Friends of the Children is so grateful for her dedication—thank you, Simone!
During Simone’s recent video call with youth from across our national network, they had the opportunity to chat with her and ask questions. Below are a few questions from youth in the program and a Friends of the Children graduate.
Q: What do you do when you want to try something new in gymnastics?
A: When I want to try something new, I take it one step at a time. At the end of each year, our coaches would introduce new skills to see if we were ready to move up to the next level. We used the foam pit as a safe space to practice those new and sometimes scary moves. That’s how we built the confidence to try things that were different, challenging—or even things no one had done before. And we pushed ourselves a little more each day. Most skills don’t come overnight. It takes hard work, dedication, and a lot of perseverance.
Q: What does sisterhood, family, and support mean to you?
A: Being in foster care made me realize how important it is to have constants in your life. My sister and I were adopted at six, and while it wasn’t always easy, my family showed up every day and believed in us. That made all the difference. Support isn’t always about biology—it is about people who show up, love you, and push you to be your best no matter what. I’ve found that in my gymnastics, my friend groups, and my mentors. Everyone deserves that kind of constant in their lives who believes in them. That kind of support changes everything.
Q: What is your favorite gymnastics outfit?
A: That is a great question! I’ve competed internationally for over 10 years, so I have worn a lot of outfits. My favorites are from the recent Paris Olympics—we were absolutely covered in crystals from head to toe. I loved the patriotic colors, the flags, and everything it represented about being an American. Those leotards really stood out to me!
Q: What advice do you have if I want to be like you?
A: Be the best version of you. My mom always told me, “Be the best Simone,” and that stuck with me. Don’t compare yourself to others—focus on your own journey. You can accomplish anything you put your mind to. Be brave, believe in yourself, and speak up for yourself and those around you. Dream big and never give up!
