With Hearts Full of Hope, Ole Miss Rebel Football Launches “Hope Rising Foundation” to Transform the Lives of Children with Disabilities — Providing Free Healthcare, Basic Needs, and Endless Love
Oxford, Mississippi — June 12, 2025
In a powerful display of compassion, leadership, and community commitment, the Ole Miss Rebel Football team has officially launched the “Hope Rising Foundation,” a charitable organization dedicated to supporting children with disabilities and chronic health challenges. The foundation aims to provide free healthcare, basic necessities, educational tools, and — perhaps most importantly — a renewed sense of hope to children and families in need across Mississippi and beyond.
A Mission Rooted in Purpose
Standing on the field at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, flanked by teammates, coaches, and local families, Ole Miss Head Coach Lane Kiffin announced the initiative to a crowd moved to tears.
“This isn’t just about football,” Kiffin said. “This is about using our platform to lift up those who need it most — to let every child know they are seen, valued, and never alone.”
The foundation, backed by players, alumni, and the university, will focus on children living with physical disabilities, developmental disorders, and long-term health conditions, ensuring they have access to medical care, nutritious food, adaptive equipment, and safe shelter.
Players Leading with Heart
Several Ole Miss players have taken active leadership roles in the foundation, volunteering their time off the field to serve, fundraise, and build relationships with families.
“I grew up watching my younger cousin fight every day with cerebral palsy,” said Rebel linebacker Tyrese Hamilton. “Being part of this foundation gives me a chance to give back in his honor. These kids are the real warriors.”
The foundation’s motto — “Lift Every Heart, Rise Together” — reflects the team’s belief that community strength comes from unity, empathy, and action.
Real Impact, Right Away
The Hope Rising Foundation is already making waves. Its first act of service included hosting a “Day of Joy” event, where dozens of children received free medical check-ups, took part in inclusive sports games, and were surprised with gifts of custom wheelchairs, learning tablets, and care packages.
Parents, overwhelmed with emotion, praised the initiative. “This isn’t just help. It’s healing,” said Maya Sanders, mother of 6-year-old Jamari, who lives with muscular dystrophy. “They gave my son more than medicine — they gave him happiness.”
A Legacy Bigger Than Football
While Ole Miss Football has long been a powerhouse on the gridiron, this initiative proves its greatest strength may lie in its humanity. The team has pledged a portion of future ticket revenue and merchandise sales to fund the foundation’s efforts, with matching contributions promised by several prominent alumni.
University Chancellor Dr. Glenn Boyce applauded the team’s leadership: “What the Rebels are doing here transcends sports. It’s a blueprint for what true servant leadership looks like.”
Looking Ahead
Plans are already underway to expand “Hope Rising” into a year-round effort, with mobile healthcare units, therapy partnerships, and scholarship programs for children living with long-term disabilities.
As the sun set over Oxford, one thing became clear: the Ole Miss Rebels are playing for more than victories this season — they’re playing for hearts, homes, and hope
Reported by Elise Thompkins, Oxford Daily Chronicle
Photos by Jordan Wyatt | Sponsored by the University of Mississippi and Rebel Athletics
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