Andrea Jaeger • United States of America

The remarkable life journey of Andrea Jaeger begins as a young and prodigious professional tennis player at the tender age of 14. Still, her unwavering commitment to making a difference truly sets her apart. Despite garnering global admiration for her victories on the tennis court, Andrea's true calling led her to redirect her career towards serving underprivileged children, creating an impact that far surpassed her achievements in sports. With a difficult decision between pursuing her burgeoning tennis career or devoting herself to aiding needy children, Jaeger fearlessly chose the latter path. This pivotal choice began a new chapter in her life, characterized by a spirit of giving and compassion. Andrea embarked on a mission to positively impact the lives of children with cancer and other underprivileged backgrounds through her boundless generosity and contributions to child welfare. Her efforts have already raised over $135 million for these children, and she aspires to double this figure in the future, driven by her passion for bringing hope and support to those in need.

As the visionary Founder and President of the Little Star Foundation, Jaeger has tirelessly dedicated over three decades to providing essential care and support to children with cancer and facing adversities. The foundation's initiatives encompass a comprehensive range of services, including long-term care, financial aid, therapeutic play programs, educational opportunities, and outreach care programs, all providing a glimmer of hope in the lives of children grappling with unimaginable challenges. Among the foundation's impactful programs is the Jeff Crawford Scholarship, established in memory of supermodel Cindy Crawford's brother. This scholarship offers crucial financial support to childhood cancer survivors accepted into accredited colleges and universities, empowering them to pursue their dreams despite the obstacles they've overcome. Additionally, the foundation's therapeutic programs, encompassing sports, arts, play, and animal therapy, play a significant role in helping children cope with cancer treatment's emotional and physical toll, fostering resilience and healing.