Notre Dame student uses ‘American Ninja Warrior’ spotlight to fight world hunger via his nonprofit – Notre Dame News

Austin Baron: Advocating to End World Hunger through American Ninja Warrior and Knot Perfect

Introduction

Austin Baron, a 19-year-old sophomore at the University of Notre Dame from Ashburn, Virginia, is combining athleticism and philanthropy to combat global hunger. On July 14, 8 p.m. EDT, he will compete in the semifinal round of NBC’s American Ninja Warrior (ANW) to raise awareness and funds for ending world hunger through his nonprofit organization, Knot Perfect.

American Ninja Warrior and the Mission to End Hunger

In its 17th season, ANW features challenging obstacle courses testing strength and endurance. Baron, who first competed on the show in 2023, will wear a shirt reading “Ninja Fighting Hunger” to highlight his commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger.

Founding Knot Perfect: A Sustainable Approach to Hunger Relief

Baron’s dedication to SDG 2 began as a volunteer at a meal-packing event organized by Cross Catholic Outreach You(th) vs. Hunger. Inspired by the impact of feeding hungry children and families, he started Knot Perfect, creating knotted dog toys to raise funds for hunger relief.

Key Milestones in Knot Perfect’s Development

1. Initiated as a middle-school project gifting dog toys to donors.
2. Transitioned to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to facilitate electronic donations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
3. Collaborated with the University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business for nonprofit development.

Collaboration with the University of Notre Dame and Mendoza College of Business

Baron’s family and Notre Dame community have been instrumental in supporting Knot Perfect. His mother enrolled in a virtual professional development course at Mendoza College of Business, led by Professor Jamie O’Brien, who continues to mentor Baron. This partnership aligns with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, emphasizing collaboration for sustainable development.

Achievements and Impact

• Raised over $30,000, providing more than 100,000 meals worldwide.
• Produced over 1,500 knotted dog toys to support fundraising efforts.
• Supported organizations including Franciscan Missions for Ukraine, Knights of Columbus Ukraine Solidarity Fund, Our Lady of the Road, and Second Harvest Food Bank.
• Received two grants totaling $1,650 to further Knot Perfect’s mission.
• Recognized as Virginia Young Man of the Year by the Knights of Columbus in 2024.

Personal Commitment and Academic Excellence

Baron balances his nonprofit work with academic pursuits, majoring in business analytics at Notre Dame. His professors commend his dedication and work ethic, reflecting SDG 4: Quality Education. His training for ANW includes ninja gyms nationwide and campus facilities, demonstrating perseverance and commitment.

Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Development

Austin Baron’s journey exemplifies the integration of SDGs, particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Through innovative fundraising, community engagement, and athletic excellence, he advances the global mission to eradicate hunger.

Support Austin Baron’s cause by visiting knotperfect.org.

Contact: Shannon Roddel, Associate Director of Media Relations, schapla@nd.edu

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger
   • The article focuses on ending world hunger through meal-packing events, fundraising for food provision, and raising awareness about hunger affecting 1 billion people globally.
2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Providing nutritious meals to children and families contributes to improved health and well-being.
3. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • The collaboration between individuals, nonprofits, educational institutions, and community organizations to combat hunger exemplifies partnerships for sustainable development.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger
   • Target 2.1: By 2030, end hunger and ensure access by all people to safe, nutritious and sufficient food all year round.
   • Target 2.2: By 2030, end all forms of malnutrition, including achieving targets on stunted and wasted children under 5 years of age.
2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
3. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • Target 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public, public-private and civil society partnerships, building on the experience and resourcing strategies of partnerships.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Number of meals provided
   • The article states that Knot Perfect has provided more than 100,000 meals globally, which can serve as an indicator of progress toward ending hunger (related to SDG 2 targets).
2. Amount of funds raised
   • Over $30,000 raised by Knot Perfect to support hunger relief efforts, indicating resource mobilization and capacity to address hunger.
3. Number of partnerships and collaborations
   • Involvement of Notre Dame, local churches, nonprofits, and community organizations reflects partnerships, which can be tracked as an indicator under SDG 17.
4. Volunteer engagement
   • The article highlights volunteer involvement from family and community members, which can be a qualitative indicator of community participation.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: news.nd.edu