Where the Mission Began.
Founded in 2018 by Founders Adam and Caitlin Thielen with their three kids, Asher, Hudson, and Cora.
With an overarching focus on youth development and mental health, we create programs that equip, empower, and inspire youth to reach their full potential.
The Thielen Family.
Adam Thielen is a former NFL wide receiver who played 13 seasons in the league, primarily with the Minnesota Vikings. In 2018, Adam and his wife, Caitlin Thielen, founded the Thielen Foundation with a mission to serve, inspire, and empower youth in their communities.
Growing up in Minnesota and throughout Adam's playing career, the Thielens experienced firsthand the incredible support, encouragement, and sense of community that shaped their journey. Inspired by those experiences, they felt called to give back in meaningful ways to the communities that gave so much to them.
Today, Thielen Foundation creates impactful programs focused on youth development, mental health, education, and community support . These programs help young people build confidence, resilience, and the tools they need to thrive both on and off the field.
At the heart of the foundation is the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to achieve their full potential in life.
From undrafted to founder.
An unlikely NFL career that became something bigger. Adam's path from undrafted free agent to two-time Pro Bowler shaped his commitment to giving back, the foundation of everything we do today.
Walter Payton Man of the Year
The NFL's most prestigious off-field honor. Nominated by the Vikings in 2022 and the Panthers in 2024 for sustained excellence in community impact and philanthropy.
Our Team.
The partners who make this possible.
See the work in action.
Programs across the Midwest equip and empower kids to reach their full potential. Football camps, weight rooms, mental health, scholarships and more.