Welcome to Strat Labs’ Changemaker Spotlight Series! This blog series is dedicated to showcasing the inspiring journeys of remarkable individuals who have transformed their passions into purposeful endeavors, leaving a significant impact on the world around them every single day. Join us as we delve into the heart of innovation and commitment, celebrating the extraordinary stories of those who are not just dreaming of a better future but actively shaping it in their journey as a Changemaker.

What inspired you to become a Changemaker, and how has that purpose evolved over time?

I hesitate to call myself a changemaker just yet. Through Trailfunds, we’re building a platform to bring more attention, resources, and funding to local nonprofit trail organizations. It’s really about supporting the people I see as the true changemakers: the leaders and volunteers doing the hard, often unrecognized work on the ground.

Trail maintenance is physically demanding and constantly challenged by setbacks, yet these organizations keep showing up. Their resilience and impact inspired me to create something that could help amplify their efforts. Over time, my purpose has shifted from simply wanting to give back to the outdoors I love to understanding how technology and advocacy can support long-term stewardship.

If Trailfunds can ease even a small part of the burden for these groups and help more people get involved in preserving our trails, I’ll feel like I’ve truly made a difference.

What’s a challenge you’ve faced in your journey and how did it shape the way you lead today?

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced was navigating unexpected shifts in my career, including layoffs that disrupted what I thought was a clear trajectory. Those experiences taught me that some of the toughest moments are completely out of your control and that resilience comes from how you respond, not just what happens.

They also shaped how I lead today. I’ve learned the value of transparency and direct communication, especially during uncertain times. I try to lead with honesty and empathy, making sure people feel informed and supported, even when the path forward isn’t crystal clear.

What does impact mean to you and how do you measure it in your work?

For Trailfunds, we look at it from several angles: every dollar donated, every volunteer who signs up, and every new visitor who learns about the organizations we support. Each one matters.

As we grow, we’ll continue tracking these metrics to better understand and improve our contribution. If people walk away with a deeper appreciation for the essential role nonprofits and volunteers play in outdoor recreation, that’s a meaningful impact to me.

Who’s someone who’s had a major influence on your leadership style or social impact work?

One of the most influential people in my life was a high school teacher who showed up every single day with genuine excitement and contagious energy. His presence had a ripple effect. Students couldn’t help but match his enthusiasm.

That stuck with me. I remember thinking I wanted to find work that gave me even a fraction of that kind of purpose and energy. That mindset has shaped both my leadership and my commitment to mission-driven work. It’s why I aim to show up for others the way he showed up for us.

What advice would you give to someone just beginning their changemaking journey?

You can’t wait around for the perfect opportunity. If there’s an issue you care about, get as close to it as you can. Volunteer, listen, ask questions, and immerse yourself in the problem before trying to solve it.

Even small steps to gain understanding are time well spent. And remember to lead with humility. Don’t take setbacks personally. Be honest and earnest about your desire to help. People can tell when your intentions are genuine and that’s often what opens the next door.

Your work with Trailfunds focuses on the importance of trail stewardship. What’s a story or moment that reminds you why this work matters?

It’s the everyday moments that remind me why this matters. Every time I head out for a ride or hike and the trail is clear with no downed trees or washouts, I feel this strong sense of gratitude.

It’s easy to take that experience for granted. Most people don’t stop to think about what it takes to keep trails accessible and safe. They just show up and enjoy. But behind every smooth ride or peaceful walk is a team of dedicated stewards making that possible. Given what we know about the health benefits of being outside, trail access is not just about convenience. It’s about public well-being. That’s what keeps me going.

In the current landscape of trail maintenance and advocacy, how is your organization adapting or leading change?

Trailfunds is built to be the first app focused solely on trail stewardship. We’re trying to close a gap between the people who enjoy the outdoors and those who protect it. There are plenty of tools that help people explore nature, but very few that help them give back. That’s where Trailfunds comes in.

By lowering the barrier to engagement, whether that’s volunteering, donating, or learning about trail organizations, we’re making stewardship more accessible and actionable. Our goal is to make giving back feel as seamless and rewarding as getting outside.

You recently launched your Trailfunds app. What impact are you hoping it will have and how can the community support it?

Our hope is that Trailfunds becomes an easy and accessible starting point for people to give back to the trails they love. Right now, just downloading the app, exploring featured Colorado-based organizations, or making a small donation can have a meaningful impact.

This is only the beginning. Over the coming months, Trailfunds will grow with more tools, features, and ways to support stewardship. Early community support helps us build momentum and shape the future of how people engage with the outdoors.

If you believe in supporting local trails and the people who care for them, download Trailfunds, spread the word, and help us grow the movement. Every share, donation, and conversation matters.

What’s something people often misunderstand about trail maintenance and advocacy and what would you want them to better understand?

A common misconception is that tax dollars fully cover trail maintenance. While public agencies at the federal, state, and local levels manage many of our parks and lands, their budgets for trail work are often limited and stretched thin across multiple priorities.

In reality, a lot of trail maintenance is carried out by nonprofit trail organizations. These groups coordinate volunteers, plan and manage projects, and often provide the labor that keeps trails open and safe. They rely on a mix of grants, sponsorships, and donations. Many of these grants have become harder to get, and federal land agencies are facing staffing cuts. That leaves nonprofits carrying an even heavier burden.

So while it may seem like someone else is taking care of the trails, the work is largely community-powered. These organizations need our support now more than ever.

How can nonprofit organizations and individuals get involved?

For nonprofits:
We’d love to include your organization on Trailfunds. The best way to get started is by reaching out to us at info@trailfunds.org. From there, we’ll guide you through our onboarding process. Trailfunds is free for trail organizations and offers an easy way to increase visibility, boost fundraising, and grow your community.

Promoting the app through your website, newsletters, or volunteer networks also helps expand support across the state.

For individuals:
Start by downloading the Trailfunds app. It’s the easiest way to discover and support trail organizations across Colorado. You can donate, sign up to volunteer, or just learn more about the nonprofits doing essential work.

You can also join our mailing list or follow us on social media to stay informed about updates and opportunities. And beyond the app, we encourage everyone to recreate with care. Respect the trails, minimize your impact, and recognize the effort that goes into keeping these spaces open and accessible.

To learn more about the impactful and important work that Trailfunds is doing, or to make a donation to support their programs, visit their website at www.trailfunds.org.

If you are interested in connecting with Chris Rizzo to learn more about his Changemaker journey, you can contact him at chris@trailfunds.org or connect with him on LinkedIn.