Football has provided Khalen Saunders with two Super Bowl rings during his tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs. Now, he aims to give back by launching a pioneering youth football camp focusing on the LGBTQ+ community.

Khalen, inspired by his older brother Kameron, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, is on a mission to dismantle stereotypes regarding LGBTQ+ individuals in sports. “My aim is to cultivate an inclusive space within sports where everyone feels welcome,” he stated.

The inaugural camp will take place in St. Louis and is designed specifically for LGBTQ+ youths, allowing them to develop their love for football in an affirming environment.

Through his efforts, Khalen hopes to prompt awareness about the harmful impact of toxic locker room culture and promote acceptance. According to a report from The Trevor Project, many LGBTQ+ youth are opting out of sports due to discrimination fears.

Khalen emphasizes that athletic ability isn’t influenced by sexual orientation or gender identity, reiterating, “Ability is ability.” He believes that creating nurturing environments can transform societal attitudes, enabling acceptance and camaraderie among young athletes.

Despite facing some backlash against this initiative, many children express gratitude for having a safe space to hone their skills. Khalen remains committed to using his platform to educate and foster love and empathy within athletics.