Chris Cole in his number 9 Georgia Bulldogs uniform on the sideline

Heart · Hustle · Hope

CHRIS S. COLE
FOUNDATION

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit enriching and inspiring youth through academic support, advocacy for children battling illness, and recognition of scholar-athletes.

Heart, Hustle, and Hope

Committed to enriching and inspiring youth through academic support, advocacy for children battling illness, and recognition of scholar-athletes who excel in the classroom and on the field.

Heart

We lead with compassion, empathy, and a genuine desire to uplift others. Whether supporting a child battling cancer or mentoring a student, everything we do is rooted in love and purpose.

Hustle

We believe in hard work, dedication, and perseverance. From the classroom to the playing field, we encourage youth to give their all, overcome adversity, and chase excellence. Be Elite!

Hope

We aim to be a source of light and belief — for kids fighting illness, for scholar-athletes chasing dreams, and for communities seeking a better future. Hope drives progress.

The man behind the mission — why it matters

Founded by Salem, Virginia native and University of Georgia linebacker Chris Cole — whose lifelong passion is helping others — our 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation is committed to enriching and inspiring youth. We provide academic support, advocate for children courageously battling cancer, and honor scholar-athletes who exemplify excellence in both academics and athletics.

Read His Story
Chris Cole in profile wearing Georgia Bulldogs headphones before a game

Our programs

Academic Support

Tutoring, supplies and back-to-school drives that keep students ready to learn.

Youth Camps

Free football camps with skills, drills, character sessions and real mentorship.

Community Outreach

Hospital visits, food drives and toy drives across the Salem community.

Scholar-Athlete Recognition

Honoring students who excel in the classroom and on the field.

Upcoming events

Chris Cole with students and volunteers at the Thanksgiving food drive

November

Thanksgiving Feeding Families

Details
The full volunteer team gathered at the Christmas with Chris toy drive

December 2026

Christmas with Chris Toy Drive

Details
Campers seated on the indoor turf field listening to coaches at the Chris Cole Youth Football Camp

Featured campaign

Youth camp is coming

October 6th · 6 PM CT

A free day of football, mentorship and fun in Salem, Virginia — position coaching, character sessions, gear and lunch for every camper.

Get involved

Every gift fuels camps, scholarships, and hospital visits.

Donate

Give a one-time or recurring gift to power academic support and youth programming.

Donate Now

Sponsor

Partner as a business or family and keep every camp and drive free for families.

See Levels

Volunteer

Coach a station, pack backpacks, or serve at a holiday drive alongside our team.

Email Us

In the community

Kids holding footballs signed by Chris Cole at a community event
Chris Cole with a group of students in a school gymnasium
Chris Cole reading a picture book to an elementary school class
Chris Cole and a teacher posing with her class after a school visit
Chris Cole high-fiving students during a school visit
Chris Cole in his jersey visiting a patient in the hospital
Food donations delivered to the Roanoke City Sheriff's Office
Chris Cole in a Santa hat with a family in the children's hospital
Chris Cole delivering Christmas gifts to a child in the hospital

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Help us inspire the next generation

For more information, email info@chriscoledfoundation.org