EPISODE 31: The Journey and Trials of Passion w/ Chris Thomas

Join Zoe (no Mike this week!) and fantastic former U.S Marine MP, mentor, and founder of Your Passion 1st, Chris Thomas. His non-profit that aims to empower youth to explore their talents through entrepreneurship, workshops, events, and even international excursions. Chris explores his transformation from a troubled, directionless college youth into a dedicated, focused leader alongside a robust team of community experts to help bring his vision to life.

Born on the South Side and raised in Oak Park, Chris admits he didn’t share the typical narrative of his peers; however, the absence of having a life’s purpose led him down a road of hopelessness and conflict with the law. Eventually, he discovered his purpose with guidance from his mentors, and after he completed his B.A in Adolescent Psychology. he turned to working in HR alongside his community center endeavors in local programs.

Your Passion 1st was born in his realization that his deeper calling was to do as much as he could to create multiple “capitals” for the youth he worked with; this included mental, physical, spiritual, and social well-being. In the past few years the organization has grown exponentially with over 400+ volunteers, an operative advisory board, and newly hired positions towards grant writing and funds. These adolescents are hands-on from planning fashion shows, events, workshops, raising trip funds, and more. The most important thing for Chris is for everyone he works with to remember to stay focused on passion, faith, and collaboration to achieve their dreams.

Support Chris Thomas and Partners with donations, following their social media, and encouraging our younger generations to “follow their Passion 1st!” using the links below.