Simone Biles: More Than Medals, A Legacy of Giving Back
Simone Biles’ story is one of triumph over adversity. Before she became the most decorated gymnast in history, she endured a childhood filled with hardship. From going hungry while a household cat was fed to navigating the foster care system, Biles’ early life was anything but easy. Fortunately, her grandparents, Ronald and Nellie Biles, adopted her at age six, providing her with the stability she needed to thrive—not just in gymnastics but in life.
Today, with seven Olympic gold medals, multiple world records, and a net worth of $25 million, Biles is using her success to give back, ensuring that children facing similar struggles have opportunities she once lacked.
Biles’ Honeymoon with Purpose
While enjoying her delayed honeymoon in South Africa with husband Jonathan Owens, Biles made time for philanthropy. Instead of just sightseeing, she visited Xilavero Day Care, a community-run center providing education and safety for underprivileged children. She spent time with the kids, donated blankets, and shared her experience on Instagram, highlighting the efforts of the center’s founder, Obert, who built the daycare from the ground up.
Her caption underscored her commitment to lifting others up:
“Obert started this himself from the ground up. He just wanted to help the community and the children… provide a safe space while the parents are working, & the kids learn so much while they play! They arrive at 6 am and usually leave around 6 pm. Literal saints, & we had such a good time visiting the kids. We need more people like Obert.”
More Than Just a Gymnastics Legend
Biles’ generosity extends far beyond one visit. She has been a strong advocate for children in foster care, using her own experiences to inspire change. One of her major initiatives is Friends of the Children—Houston, a nonprofit that pairs underprivileged kids with professional mentors to help break the cycle of generational poverty. She helped bring the program to Houston in 2023, ensuring children in her hometown receive the support she wished she had growing up.
The organization, which began in Oregon in 1993, has expanded to 37 locations across the U.S., providing long-term mentorship for children in need. Since its launch in Houston, the program introduced its first cohort of 24 kids and three mentors in August 2023, marking a significant step in making a lasting impact.
Biles even dedicated her second Wheaties box appearance to Friends of the Children, using her platform to amplify the organization’s work. On Instagram, she openly reflected on her past, writing:
“I actually was a foster kid, so I know some of those hardships that those kids go through. It gives them love and support because that’s what these kids need. To have that one constant means the world to them.”
What Defines Simone Biles’ Legacy?
Biles’ incredible gymnastics career has already secured her place in history. But what makes her truly remarkable is how she’s using her success to help others. From her advocacy for foster children to hands-on charity work, Biles proves that being the GOAT isn’t just about medals—it’s about making sure others have the chance to win at life, too.
So, as the debate continues: Is Biles’ legacy more about her Olympic dominance or her impact on children’s lives? One thing is clear—she’s changing lives, one flip at a time.