Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting youth with mentors through outdoor activities like hunting and fishing, is proud to announce the hiring of Christopher Stout as its new Director of Development.
Chris brings more than a decade of visionary nonprofit leadership, combining strategic fundraising success with a deep personal commitment to the transformational power of the outdoors. As a decorated Army veteran and lifelong advocate for using nature as a catalyst for healing and growth, Chris is passionate about creating outdoor opportunities for underserved communities, especially youth. He believes that time spent in nature fosters confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose, and that introducing kids to outdoor traditions through mentorship is crucial to their long-term development and well-being.
His professional journey includes founding the Veterans Community Project, a nationally acclaimed nonprofit that delivers housing and comprehensive services to veterans in need. Under Chris’s leadership, the organization grew from a grassroots initiative in Kansas City to a multi-city operation that has impacted over 5,000 veterans. His efforts raised over $25 million and mobilized a network of more than 500 partners, vendors, and volunteers to deliver wraparound services through an outdoor-centric lens of healing and connection.
In addition to his role as Founder and CEO of the Veterans Community Project, Chris recently held senior development positions at Wreaths Across America, where he managed significant gift portfolios and led revenue growth within the company. His work consistently emphasizes mission alignment, donor stewardship, and meaningful community engagement.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chris to the Pass It On Outdoor Mentors team,” said Brittany French, CEO. “Chris is not only a skilled development professional—he is a passionate advocate for how the outdoors can change lives. His values align powerfully with our mission, and we’re confident he’ll help us grow and sustain life-changing outdoor mentorship experiences for youth.”
Chris shared his excitement about joining the organization:
“The outdoors has always been a source of healing, strength, and growth in my life. I believe every child deserves a chance to experience that kind of transformation. Joining Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors allows me to help build those life-shaping moments for the next generation. I’m honored to be part of a mission that puts mentorship, conservation, and youth development at the center of everything it does.”
About Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors, Inc.
Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors is dedicated to connecting youth and volunteer mentors through outdoor experiences, fostering the next generation of hunters and anglers. By creating ongoing opportunities, the organization aims to positively impact the lives of young people and promote the conservation of our natural resources. Learn more at www.outdoormentors.org or follow us on social media.
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