In 2013, I founded OUT There Adventures (OTA) to create a safe, identity-affirming space for LGBTQ+ youth in the outdoors—a space I never had growing up. What began as a solo vision evolved into a national nonprofit, a flagship summit, and a broader movement for queer inclusion in outdoor recreation.

Over nearly a decade, I led the organization from grassroots startup to a widely respected thought leader and convener. OTA built transformational outdoor experiences for queer youth and adult allies, grounded in healing, leadership, and visibility. Through deep partnerships with brands like REI, Patagonia, and The North Face, we shifted narratives, changed hiring practices, and opened doors for Queer folks across the industry.

Highlights:

• Founded the LGBTQ Outdoor Summit, now in its 6th year, gathering 1,000+ attendees from across the country

• Secured major partnerships with top outdoor brands and conservation orgs to co-host, fund, and promote queer-focused initiatives

• Developed the first national LGBTQ+ outdoor youth program, reaching hundreds of participants through multi-day, immersive expeditions

• Mentored a new generation of Queer outdoor leaders, many of whom now lead their own programs or work in the industry