Grooby has become a sponsor of Pineapple Support, joining over 60 adult businesses and organizations in committing funds and resources to the mental health nonprofit. This sponsorship aims to expand Pineapple Support's reach and develop programs for transgender performers.
Grooby's Commitment to Mental Health
Steven Grooby, owner and founder of Grooby, expressed his admiration for Pineapple Support's progress and the dedication of its staff at recent shows. Grooby stated that his company is "very involved in mental health and welfare" and is "happy to help support Pineapple to have a wider reach into all the areas of the industry."
Leya Tanit, founder of Pineapple Support, acknowledged Grooby's long-standing advocacy for the care and support of models. Tanit noted that Grooby's support will enable Pineapple Support to reach more models and develop programs and workshops specifically addressing the needs of transgender performers. Tanit described transgender performers as "a vital part of our community who nevertheless face stigma and discrimination even within our industry." She thanked the Grooby team for being a "transformative force" in the journey towards empowerment and well-being.
Grooby, a pioneer in the trans adult industry, received the Pineapple Award at the online edition of the 2026 XBIZ Honors. During the award presentation, Leya Tanit spoke about Grooby, who expressed being "overwhelmed" and "extremely honored and just a little embarrassed by this recognition, which came as a complete surprise." Grooby thanked Tanit and the Pineapple Support Board, acknowledging that many peers are equally deserving. He also recognized his team, many of whom have been with him for decades, and "every trans adult performer we’ve worked with." Grooby affirmed, "We will continue to do our best to platform, protect, and enable trans persons in the adult industry."
Tanit, who is also the CEO of Pineapple Support, stated that the Pineapple Award recognizes individuals who "quietly change lives," a quality she believes Steven Grooby embodies. She highlighted Grooby's work through Grooby and the TEAs, which she said has "created genuinely safe, accessible spaces where trans creators are seen, respected, and celebrated." Tanit emphasized the importance of this work "at a time when trans communities are facing increasing discrimination and hostility." She added that having known Steven for many years, it was an honor to present the award and acknowledge the "depth of care and integrity he brings to our community."
Pineapple Support's Mission and Growth
Pineapple Support was founded in 2018 by performer Leya Tanit following a series of losses in the adult industry due to depression and other mental illnesses. The organization has connected over 10,000 adult performers and industry members to mental health services, including free and low-cost therapy, counseling, and emotional support, as of June 20, 2023. By November 8, 2023, this number had increased to over 12,000 adult performers.
Pineapple Support is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization in the United States. The organization provides stigma-free and sex-positive therapy to adult performers and offers training services to organizations that work with them.
Expanding Industry Partnerships
Grooby's sponsorship adds to Pineapple Support's growing list of industry partners. As of June 20, 2023, Pineapple Support had over 60 adult businesses and organizations committing funds and resources. By November 8, 2023, this number had grown to over seventy adult businesses and organizations.
One such partner is Friends 2 Follow (F2F), which joined Pineapple Support as a bronze-level sponsor. F2F, a premium social network, has also contracted Pineapple Support’s “Pineapple Team Wellbeing” service. This service provides in-house training and support for team members and offers content creators registered with F2F access to a monthly support group led by a licensed Pineapple Support therapist.
Martijn van Lom, founding partner of F2F, stated that Friends 2 Follow’s mental health support is a "significant USP" for their creators. Van Lom noted that by partnering with organizations like Pineapple Support, F2F.com "goes beyond traditional content platforms, addressing the mental well-being of its community members," distinguishing it as a platform that "cares deeply about the holistic well-being of its users."
Leya Tanit expressed gratitude for F2F's contributions, stating that each tax-deductible donation allows Pineapple Support to continue providing its services and training.
Key Facts
- Grooby has joined Pineapple Support as a sponsor, contributing funds and resources.
- Pineapple Support, founded in 2018 by Leya Tanit, connects adult performers and industry members to mental health services.
- As of November 8, 2023, Pineapple Support had connected over 12,000 adult performers to mental health services.
- Grooby's support will aid in developing programs and workshops for transgender performers.
- Steven Grooby received the Pineapple Award at the 2026 XBIZ Honors for his work in the trans adult industry.
- Pineapple Support is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization in the United States.