It is in Avout's culture to give back to the community, and we are proud to be recognized by Colorado Mountain Club (CMC) as their Partner of the Month. Through 1% for the Planet, Avout donates to non-profit organizations focused on positive environmental change and sustainability. Avout CEO Barry Wiebe and Chief Giving Officer, Jake Wiebe, selected the non-profits who would receive Avout’s donations based on two things close to their family’s hearts: Colorado’s outdoors and biking. “We wanted to pick organizations that were doing meaningful work and be able to make contributions that were sizable enough to make a difference.”

Avout donates annually to CMC, and Jake has been actively involved in launching Alpine Start, a program that focuses on bringing 18- to 25-year-olds together for fun and challenging activities that develop their outdoor and leadership skills. CMC worked with Jake to help shape the program. “I thought it was important that the participants take the initiative and do most of the leading, as opposed to having adults direct the program. That kind of investment results in a higher level of engagement, accountability, and learning,” said Jake.

Read about CMC's partnership with Avout and more in their August issue of The Rucksack.

Learn about Avout's involvement in 1% for the Planet.