A new 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization, Athletes Activating Champions & Empowerment (AACE) has launched with a mission to provide a supportive space where young people of all backgrounds build self-esteem, resilience and positive relationships through mentorship and guidance from student-athletes.
Founded on the belief that sports can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth and community change, AACE connects student-athletes with underserved youth to foster confidence, character and a champion mindset. Through mentorship programs, educational outreach and leadership development, AACE is dedicated to helping young people overcome obstacles and equips them with the tools they need to succeed in the classroom, on the field and in life.
AACE was founded by Canterbury School student Noah Moon. It was inspired by his own journey as a student-athlete and the impact sports and mentorship had on him. Moon relied on mentors and team experiences to navigate a demanding schedule, learning firsthand how guidance and camaraderie build resilience, healthy habits and personal growth — values that now shape AACE.
This summer, AACE worked with the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) Academy to bring its character development program to youth at the Academy’s summer camps. AACE worked with more than 250 student-athletes over nine days, educating them on the AACE Playbook that helps young people grow into self-confident, well-rounded individuals.
The collaboration between AACE and the APP Academy will continue later this year at various APP events throughout the Sunshine State.
Other organizations AACE is currently working with:
- Florida Gulf Coast University as a community partner
- Florida Resiliency Training, a program that empowers students to persevere and overcome life’s challenges
- Tice Elementary to supply 50 school uniforms; AACE raised the money, packaged the uniforms and delivered 25 with more on the way
“We’re excited about the organization we’ve started and the direction we’re taking to help other kids become more self-confident.” said AACE president and founder Noah Moon. “Students today are dealing with so much of life’s up and downs, which is why we believe that a program like AACE can be a valuable resource to help them navigate whatever comes their way.”
The nonprofit recently named its inaugural board of directors. It includes:
- Noah Moon – president and founder
- Asher Moon – vice president
- Juan Manuel Lopez – board chair
- Gilliane Fort Cannock – secretary
- Brock Catlin – treasurer
- Caid Catlin – student voice and membership representative
- Joshua Fox – community outreach lead
- Dylan Moon – strategic advisor
AACE is actively seeking partnerships with elementary and middle schools, afterschool programs and organizations in need of youth mentorship. To find out more about the opportunities to bring their program to your organization, please visit AACEToEmpower.org/Contact.
About AACE
Athletes Activating Champions & Empowerment, or AACE, was founded in 2025. The student-led nonprofit helps middle and high school students grow through mentorship, movement and meaningful connection. The organization works to develop confident, resilient students by combining the power of sports with real life guidance. Through inclusive, relationship-driven programming, strong partnerships and community support, AACE helps every student feel seen, heard and empowered to thrive in school and in life. For more information about AACE, please visit aacetoempower.org.
