When former diving champion Gao Min heard the scholarship she had provided had helped two young women to complete their college education, she said she was overcome with delight.

"I am so proud of myself," the two-time Olympic champion said.

"Because apart from my achievements in sport, I can also make a contribution to society in other ways."

This summer, 10,500 athletes will gather in Beijing to compete in the Olympics. Away from their sporting endeavors, Gao and US Olympic swimming champion Natalie Coughlin are hoping some of them will join them in becoming ambassadors for the Hearts of Gold Program, launched yesterday in Beijing by international humanitarian organization Right To Play and Olympic sponsor Johnson & Johnson.

Right To Play was founded by Norway's four-time Olympic speed skating champion Johann Koss. It uses sport and play programs to improve health, build life skills and foster peace for children and communities affected by war, poverty and disease. More than 300 athletes from 40 countries and regions help those efforts by serving as "athlete ambassadors".

"My success as an athlete brought me so much, but it happened only because of the support of the people around me," Gao said.

"Through this program, I hope to encourage more athletes to use their status to inspire others."

The Hearts of Gold Program encourages all Olympians to engage in acts of kindness, caring and encouragement. Johnson & Johnson, in association with the International Olympic Committee, will present every Beijing 2008 Olympian with a special gift, designed not only to commemorate their participation in the event, but also to be shared with someone who supported them on their journey to Beijing.

Right To Play is hoping more athletes will become ambassadors, and aid its work with disadvantaged children around the world.

Wei Wei, director of Right To Play China, said: "The work athletes do with Right To Play not only provides children with wonderful role models, but also gives the athletes a chance to give back through sport."

(China Daily July 3, 2008)