Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez Uses Fame to Do Good From Mexico to Manchester

Currently the most famous and popular Mexican player in the world, Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez has used his fame at home and abroad to help others. From visiting terminally ill kids with Manchester United. to becoming a UNICEF ambassador on behalf of Mexico’s underprivileged children, Hernandez uses his fame to do good.

Earlier this month, Hernandez became the first Mexican athlete to become a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF. He announced his role with the non-profit organization at an event in Mexico, where he has devoted his time to philanthropic causes before joining the national team for training.

One of those events involved supporting Becalos, as its fourth generation of students graduated. The Mexican star greeted the students, who benefit from a scholarship system that reaches over 137,000 people in the country. Chicharito graduated from University before leaving for Manchester United and has been committed to promoting education in Mexico.

The Mexican striker also spent some of his time in Mexico to promote the arts. He attended the 100th performance of the popular play Nadando con Tiburones. Also present was Oscar nominated actor Damian Vichir, though Chicharito was able to garner the most attention at the event.

Not all of his public appearances have had to do with philanthropy. He also stepped out to accept important awards. On May 7, he attended the IFHHS gala where he was named the most popular player in CONCACAF in 2011.

Chicharito Hernandez has also shown his commitment to his hometown, where he was named Ambassador of Jalisco. The event was so important to Chicharito that he famously broke down in tears during the ceremony.

Much of the young player’s involvement with charitable work has come through his club Manchester United. In July 2011, Hernandez temporarily took on a modeling career. He walked down the runway in an event with Hublot to raise funds for Manchester United’s Foundation, which is dedicated to helping underprivileged children.

This past Christmas, “Chicharito” and his teammates showed off their holiday spirit by visiting terminally ill children during the Christmas break. The Manchester striker was joined by David de Gea and Patrice Evra.

It was also with Manchester United that he visited another group of terminally ill children after winning the 2010-11 Premier League title. Chicharito, along with his teammates, took the trophy along for their visit at the renowned “the Christie” hospital in Manchester.

Before leaving for England, Chicharito took some of his last vacation time visiting children at the school Nueva Era. The Mexican striker is often seen interacting with children in his hometown at various events, including when he went to visit his former team’s practice and was inundated by young fans.

In 2011, Chicharito was awarded the Medal of Honor by Anahuac University in Queretaro, Mexico. The award was presented to the athlete for the leadership and merit he has shown throughout his football career.

Chicharito is also one of the biggest spokespeople for Nike — through various campaigns that include commercials, official signings, and various campaigns. The Mexican icon continues to promote the brand worldwide.

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