DON'T LIVE TO SURVIVE, LIVE LIFE TO THRIVE...
The Joe Thomspon Foundation was created to carry forward Joe's legacy!
A legacy of resilience, faIth & transformation.
Our mission is to fund, empower, and inspire projects and people who help others rise through adversity to thrive in life.
Joe Thompson was a professional footballer, husband to Chantelle, father to Thailula, Athena & Baby Dre Phoenix who was born sleeping. He truly was an inspiration to everyone who crossed his path.
At just 23, Joe was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma… After beating cancer not once, but twice, he made an extraordinary return to football, scoring the goal that kept Rochdale in League One, a moment that came to define his courage and determination.
Beyond Football...
Joe’s true purpose was helping others find light through darkness. As a motivational speaker, author, and mentor, he shared his story to remind people that adversity doesn’t define you…it refines you.
Today Joe's legacy...
Lives on through the Joe Thompson Foundation, continuing his mission to support families facing illness, empower young people, and inspire communities to rise, rebuild, and Live to Thrive.
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The Fundraising Focus
GRIEF SUPPORT
TRANSITIONS
THE CHANGE PROGRAMME
Supporting individuals navigating grief, loss, or major life transitions through heart led programmes, retreats, and group experiences that build emotional strength and self-awareness.
MENTORSHIP
SCHOLARSHIPS
YOUTH EMPOWERMENT
To advance the education, wellbeing, and future opportunities of young people, Through football, mentorship, and education, this pillar opens doors for children to discover their potential.
PROJECTS
PROJECTS
ONE FIVE THRIVE
Each year, ONE FIVE Thrive will focus on a cause or project that feels aligned with Joe’s legacy and the Foundation’s mission, creating meaningful impact in the areas he felt most passionate about.
GET INVOLVED
How you can help...
Every contribution helps us continue Joe’s legacy of hope and resilience. Your donation supports all of our fundraising focuses.
Become part of our story by raising funds in your own unique way from sponsored runs, charity matches, and wellness events to community projects in Joe’s honour.
Your time and talents will help our small team to grow. Whether you’re a coach, therapist, creative, event organiser, or simply someone who wants to help, volunteering with us helps build the strong foundations Joe envisioned
Find out more how you can give a young person the chance to dream big. Through our Youth Empowerment & Scholarships programme with Phoenix FC, your sponsorship provides access to coaching, mentorship, and education for children who might not otherwise have the opportunity. Help us build the next generation of leaders, on and off the pitch.