About
Andrea Jaeger's inspiring journey from the heights of professional tennis to the heart of philanthropy exemplifies the power of dedication and service. Though her on-court victories garnered her global acclaim, her passion to uplift the lives of those less fortunate defined her true character. Jaeger transitioned her thriving sports career towards improving the lives of disadvantaged children, her impact resonating far beyond the tennis courts.
When confronted with the choice between furthering her professional tennis career or dedicating her life to the welfare of impoverished children, Jaeger decisively picked the path of philanthropy. Her selfless endeavors in child welfare have since distinguished a new phase of her life, characterized by a spirit of generosity. Having already raised over $135 million for children battling cancer and other adversities, she aspires to double this achievement.
Jaeger's selflessness is embodied in her role as the Founder and President of the Little Star Foundation. Over the past three decades, she has been a tireless crusader, offering long-term care, financial support, educational services, therapeutic programs, and outreach initiatives to children in dire need. Her profound involvement with the Little Star Foundation has infused hope in children with unimaginable challenges.
The foundation has launched several programs targeting the needs of children grappling with cancer and other hardships:
Jeff Crawford Scholarship:
A financial aid program named in memory of supermodel Cindy Crawford's brother, providing support to childhood cancer survivors seeking tertiary education.
Therapeutic Programs:
A series of programs offering sports, arts, play, and animal therapy designed to help children endure the emotional and physical rigors of cancer treatments.
Financial Assistance:
The foundation also provides financial aid to help ease the financial burden of families dealing with a child's medical expenses.
In addition to her extensive charitable work, Jaeger advocates for athlete mental health, revealing her unwavering commitment to comprehensive wellness.
At the tender age of 16, Jaeger was already the second-highest-ranked professional tennis player worldwide. Her tennis prowess led her to defeat renowned competitors like Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova, and Chris Evert before turning 17. But her most enduring legacy is her philanthropic work, as she devoted her entire prize money to aiding needy children.
Her significant achievements include:
- Being ranked second worldwide in professional tennis at 16
- Reaching the finals at Wimbledon and French Open
- Becoming the youngest winner of the French Open Mixed Doubles
- Representing the U.S. in the 1984 Olympic Tennis Team
- Participating in the Wimbledon Legends event multiple times
Jaeger, a graduate of Ministry Training and Theology and a student of Zoology, penned an inspiring book in 2004, "First Service: Following God's Calling and Finding Life's Purpose."
Her multifaceted contributions to sport and charity have earned her several honors:
- The Jackie Robinson Humanitarian Award (first female recipient)
- The Jefferson Award
- Mercedes Excellence Award
- Induction into the World Sports Humanitarian Hall of Fame
- Ronald McDonald House Charity Award of Excellence
- Jefferson Award of Excellence (2001)
- Henry P. Iba Citizen Athlete Award (1999)
- NYJTL Leadership Award (2019)
Andrea Jaeger's life embodies selfless dedication to the welfare of others, painting the portrait of a true champion both inside and outside the sporting arena.
Know More: Little Star Light Podcast