Chris Stout served in the U.S. Army with the 82nd Airborne Division. He was medically retired after being injured while deployed to Afghanistan. After serving in the Army, Chris returned to Kansas City and started to volunteer with various nonprofits serving Veterans. 

Chris founded the nationally recognized Veterans Community Project (VCP). VCP was started by Chris in Kansas City and has grown to operate in 8 states. VCP is a Veteran nonprofit that builds tiny house communities for homeless Veterans.

Chris was recognized as one of CNN’s Top 10 CNN Heroes in 2018 for his work at the Veterans Community Project. Recipient of the Rosa Parks Spirit Awards, Nonprofit Connect Great Story of the Year, George W. Bush Veteran Leadership Scholar, Annenberg Foundation Leadership Award, Bank of America Neighborhood Builder, and Billion Acts of Kindness Award. 

He is known as a subject matter expert in “Veteran Homelessness,” “Tiny Houses,” and nonprofit development. Chris has provided consulting services for more than 53 nonprofits, providing services to organizations serving homeless Veterans, Veteran service navigation, human trafficking, youth aging out of foster care, housing providers for those struggling with mental health issues, brain health treatment, therapeutic art programs, and suicide prevention.

Chris is currently working for Wreaths Across America. Wreaths Across America’s mission is to Remember, Honor, and Teach. Wreaths Across America was the spark behind the “wreath laying” ceremonies that happen across the United States each year in December. 

Wreaths Across America also has a mobile education exhibit that travels to more than 190 locations each year, sharing the what and why of WAA and stories of those who have served and sacrificed everything for our freedom. Wreaths Across America also has a 24/7 radio station that plays patriotic music and shows.