In a show of extraordinary generosity, St. Louis Blues forward Jordan Kyrou has donated two fully outfitted buses and more than $1 million to support transgender youth and LGBTQ+ advocacy in the St. Louis-area youth community.
Kyrou — known for his blazing pace on the ice and now off it — unveiled the initiative today at a press event at the Enterprise Center. The buses, converted into mobile youth centers, will serve as traveling safe spaces offering mental health services, educational resources, and social support specifically tailored for trans and gender-diverse children and teens who may not otherwise have access.
“I want every young person, no matter who they are, to feel seen, supported, and loved,” Kyrou said. “These buses are tools of inclusion — for those who sometimes feel excluded. Let’s bring hope where it’s needed most.”
The $1 million-plus contribution comes via Kyrou’s own foundation, along with matching funds from the Blues organization and multiple local sponsors. Administered in partnership with regional nonprofits such as the TransYouth Alliance STL and Pride for Youth Endowment, the donation will:
- Cover operational costs of the mobile centers for the next three years
- Underwrite counseling, workshops, and health outreach programs
- Provide transportation for youth to attend events and services in Kansas City and Springfield
Blues GM Doug Armstrong applauded Kyrou’s leadership: “This is civic engagement at its best — caring beyond the rink. Jordan is doing something profoundly meaningful, and we’re proud to stand behind him.”
Local advocates celebrated the announcement. Avery Collins of TransYouth Alliance STL stated, “This donation will touch lives—from rural Missouri to urban neighborhoods in St. Louis. These buses offer a lifeline, and Jordan is helping deliver it.”
Kent Hollingsworth, Director of Pride for Youth Endowment, added, “Support like this saves lives. Trans youth face heightened risks; they need resources, visibility, acceptance. Kyrou is leading the way.”
Kyrou, 27, who hails from Toronto and has been a standout forward for the Blues since breaking out in 2022, is no stranger to community work. His ongoing involvement includes youth hockey clinics and charitable gaming fundraisers. Still, today’s announcement marks his most far-reaching and socially focused effort to date.
The first bus, decorated in Pride colors and the Blues logo, will debut next month. Staffed with licensed counselors and youth mentors, it will begin touring metro-area neighborhoods. The second bus, slated to roll out in 2026, will support surrounding regions lacking local LGBTQ+ services.
Impact at a glance:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| $1M+ donation | Covers three years of operations & program support |
| 2 mobile youth centers | Buses equipped with counseling & educational program spaces |
| Program partners | Collaborates with TransYouth Alliance STL, Pride for Youth Endowment |
Kyrou’s gift joins a growing number of athlete-led social impact campaigns. Speaking afterward, he emphasized his hope for the future: “Hockey gave me a team, purpose, and confidence. Every kid deserves that, too.”
The St. Louis community is already planning a “Youth Inclusion Night” next winter to coincide with Pride Month, celebrating diversity and reaffirming the Blues’ commitment to inclusion.
