In a headline-making moment that transcends sports, Chicago Blackhawks forward Ryan Donato has signed a historic $38 million endorsement deal with Powerade — one of the largest beverage sponsorships ever awarded to an NHL player — and in a remarkable act of generosity, has donated nearly $23 million of it to causes close to his heart.
According to ESPN sources, Donato will serve as the face of Powerade’s new international campaign focused on resilience, mental health, and athlete empowerment. But what has truly stunned the hockey world is what he did next.
Shortly after signing the contract, Donato announced that $18 million of the deal would be directed toward youth sports and wellness programs in underserved communities, and an additional $4.8 million would go to a Chicago-based orphanage that he has supported privately for years.
“I’ve been incredibly blessed,” Donato said in an emotional statement. “This partnership gives me a platform, not just as a hockey player, but as a human being. I want to use that to lift others — kids who don’t get the same shot I did.”
The donation includes:
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$12 million to expand hockey access programs, including free equipment, ice time, and coaching for low-income families across the Midwest.
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$6 million to create wellness and mental health support initiatives for student-athletes.
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$4.8 million to the St. Benedict’s Home for Children, an orphanage in Chicago that Donato has quietly volunteered with since joining the Blackhawks.
The deal is also structured to give Donato a long-term role in shaping Powerade’s community outreach programs, signaling a shift in how companies are leveraging athlete influence for public good.
“Ryan’s not just a phenomenal athlete — he’s a leader,” said Powerade spokesperson Dana Clarke. “We’re proud to partner with someone whose values align so deeply with ours.”
Blackhawks President Danny Wirtz praised Donato’s move, calling it “a proud moment for the organization.” Teammates have echoed the sentiment, noting Donato’s quiet commitment to philanthropy long before the cameras were rolling.
Now in his prime, the 29-year-old Donato has become one of Chicago’s most productive and consistent forwards, racking up 24 goals and 36 assists this season while serving as a respected leader in the locker room.
But with this gesture, he’s making just as much impact off the ice as on it.
“We always talk about leaving a legacy,” Donato said. “For me, that means more than goals or points — it means giving kids hope, opportunities, and a reason to believe.”
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