Justin Yoder | He/Him

Founder of LGBTQ Outdoors

Justin Yoder is the Founder and Executive Director of LGBTQ Outdoors, a nonprofit connecting the LGBTQIA+ community to the outdoors through inclusive spaces, events, and ambassador-led chapters across the U.S. and Canada. Since founding the organization in 2019, Justin has built it into a vibrant community that hosts programs such as LGBTQ Outdoorfest, the 100 Mile Club, and the LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast. A lifelong advocate for inclusion and environmental stewardship, Justin previously founded a nonprofit addressing HIV/AIDS in Africa. His leadership blends compassion, creativity, and a deep belief that everyone deserves to feel safe, seen, and celebrated in nature. Through LGBTQ Outdoors, Justin continues to champion visibility, connection, and the healing power of the outdoors.

Josh mcNabb | He/Him

Director | LGBTQ Outdoorfest

Josh McNabb grew up in Northeast Texas, where time spent outside, especially fly fishing, quickly transformed from a hobby into a lifelong passion. Now based in Colorado, he dedicates as many days as he can to exploring alpine lakes and casting lines into crisp mountain streams. Finding LGBTQ+ Outdoors connected Josh with a supportive queer community that shares his love for adventure, nature, and belonging in outdoor spaces. Since getting involved in 2022, he has taken on increasing leadership roles and has proudly served as the leader of Outdoorfest for three years. Josh is committed to creating inclusive, affirming outdoor experiences where everyone can feel welcome, confident, and inspired to explore.

Patrick Thompson | He/Him

Creative Director | LGBTQ Outdoorfest

Patrick Thompson, founder of Muse Lighting Design, is a visionary who blends theatre, music, and advanced technology to craft immersive and unforgettable events. With a background in musical theatre and music composition, he has served as writer, director, and designer for shows and parades for Six Flags, performed at Disney and Universal, and composed music featured in more than 400 television episodes. Equal parts artist and innovator, Patrick approaches every project with a deep passion for storytelling through light and sound. His obsession with creating the perfect atmosphere transforms any event into an extraordinary experience that captivates, inspires, and leaves a lasting, memorable impression.

C. Nicholas Morris | He/Him

Co-Director | LGBTQ Outdoorfest

C. Nicholas Morris has been a part of LGBTQ Outdoors since the first LGBTQ Outdoorfest in 2021, which was the catalyst that reshaped his future. Nature has always been a place of escape and rejuvenation, and the pandemic helped him return to the outdoors and take a solo cross-country camping trip. Nicholas has spent his career in the non-profit sector through arts and education. As an award winning director and choreographer, he is an expert in implementing and enhancing programs with a proven history of evaluating, developing, and orchestrating successful projects and events while improving and strengthening processes and systems delivered with impeccable quality. Applying my skills to an organization I am passionate about is exciting. I am thrilled to help cultivate an experience that is changing lives.

Cristina CHapa | SHe/Her

Registration Manager | LGBTQ Outdoorfest

Cristina Chapa serves as the Registration Manager for LGBTQ Outdoorfest, a dedicated volunteer role where she oversees the behind‑the‑scenes processes that help ensure every camper enjoys a smooth, stress‑free experience long before they arrive on site. Originally from Mexico, Cristina relocated to Texas just last year and now shares life’s adventures with her wife and their two beloved fur babies, Lucas the dog and Garri the cat. In her professional life, she works in Global Sourcing, bringing extensive end‑to‑end project management expertise to both her job and her volunteer work. Outside the office, Cristina is energized by the outdoors—she loves hiking, camping, climbing, biking, and embracing any opportunity to connect with nature.

PASSION TO LEAD?

We are always looking for opportunities to connect our people with leadership opportunities.

If interested in serving, send us an email at outdoorfest@lgbtqoutdoors.com