OUR STORY
Next Mission Outdoors was founded in Michigan by veterans who understand that service does not end when the uniform comes off—and that finding purpose, connection, and belonging after service can be a mission of its own.
Our leadership team brings decades of military experience spanning Desert Storm, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Army, Army Reserve, and Michigan Army National Guard. After returning home, our founders experienced firsthand the challenges that can follow military service, as well as the healing power of time spent outdoors with people who understand the journey. Hunting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor experiences became more than recreational activities. They created space to step away from everyday pressures, regain mental clarity, rebuild confidence, and form relationships that last.
Those experiences inspired the creation of Next Mission Outdoors, Inc., a Michigan-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving veterans, active-duty service members, Gold Star families, and first responders. Through mission-based outdoor activities and peer mentorship, we provide meaningful opportunities to reconnect, experience something new, and rediscover a sense of purpose and camaraderie.
Our programs are built around inclusion, integrity, accountability, and genuine connection. Whether someone is calling in their first turkey, fishing for walleye, sitting in a deer blind, or simply sharing stories around camp, every experience is designed to remind participants that they are still part of a team. We are committed to making these opportunities accessible whenever possible, including for participants with physical disabilities, because we believe the outdoors should have no limits.
Next Mission Outdoors exists to ensure that the people who have served our country, families, and communities are never left behind. Together, we are building friendships, creating lasting memories, and helping every participant discover their next mission in life.
Heal. Belong. Reignite.
Jason Nielsen
President & Co-Founder
I am the Co-Founder and President/CEO of Next Mission Outdoors, Inc., we are a Michigan-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing Veterans, Active-Duty Service Members, Gold Star Families, and First Responders with meaningful outdoor experiences that promote healing, integrity, and lasting camaraderie. Heal*Belong*Reignite
My commitment to serving others began during my military service. I served as an Infantryman in the Michigan Army National Guard, deploying to Iraq in 2008 where I performed convoy security operations, including serving as the driver or gunner in the lead vehicle or security vehicle. I later deployed to Afghanistan in 2012, where I conducted both mechanized and dismounted patrols alongside members of the Afghan National Army (ANA) and Afghan National Police (ANP). My medical discharge was finalized in 2015 at 100% by the VA following my Afghanistan deployment.
I underwent multiple surgeries after my military service and eventually continued serving others through the nonprofit community. Before founding Next Mission Outdoors, I volunteered with another nonprofit organization, progressing through several leadership roles including Pro-Staff, Assistant Lead, and ultimately State Lead for Michigan. Those experiences gave me firsthand insight into the challenges of serving veterans and the importance of strong leadership, accountability, and genuine camaraderie.
My passion for the outdoors is at the heart of what I bring to Next Mission Outdoors. I specialize in turkey and deer hunting, as well as walleye fishing. I am also a novice duck hunter and have spent many years pursuing bass, particularly throughout the 1990’s. Regardless of whether I’m sitting in a deer blind, calling in a turkey, or spending time on the water chasing walleye, I believe the outdoors provides an opportunity to disconnect from everyday pressures, seek mental clarity, build relationships, and create memories that last a lifetime. We have taken veterans in wheelchairs to these events; the sky is the limit!
I am currently pursuing my degree in Criminal Justice, majoring in Crime Scene Investigation, at Liberty University. Continuing my education is another part of my commitment to personal growth and to developing the knowledge and leadership skills I can bring to both Next Mission Outdoors and the people we serve.
I founded Next Mission Outdoors because I believe service does not end when the uniform comes off. There is always another way to serve, another person to help, and another opportunity to make a difference. Through Next Mission Outdoors, I want to create those opportunities by bringing people together in the outdoors, building lasting connections, and helping each participant find purpose and camaraderie in their Next Mission In Life!
Todd Taylor
Vice President & Co-Founder
My name is Todd Taylor. I am the Vice President and one of the Co-Founders of Next Mission Outdoors. I served in the U.S. Army from 1990-1997. During my time in service, I did tours in Desert Storm, Germany, Ft. Lewis, WA, Hunter Army Airfield and Ft. Jackson, SC. I was raised in Perry, MI and now live on the outskirts of Haslett, enjoying country life. I am an avid walleye fisherman along with ice fishing and I do a little deer hunting. I do not hunt deer as much as I used to due to a severe back injury I sustained several years ago. I used to fish the Michigan Walleye Tour but now just do small tournaments. I attend several Veteran walleye events throughout the Spring and Summer months. I look forward to watching this organization grow and become something special. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me. Thank you for joining us here at Next Mission Outdoors.
Todd Taylor
Nick Heisler
Treasurer
My name is Nick Heisler and I am proud to serve as the Treasurer for Next Mission Outdoors. This is an honorable organization for a great cause. I truly believe that together, we can make a difference.
I was born and raised in Southern Michigan, where I grew up on my family’s farms and I participated in both 4-H and FFA.
After graduating high school, I attended college in Ohio, where I met my wife. In 1991 I joined the U.S. Army Reserve and in 1992 I switched to active duty. I was stationed at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky. I spent 14 years at Ft. Campbell where I served in various positions. Following my second deployment to Iraq, I PCS'd to Ft. Sill, Oklahoma. There I spent much of my time as an instructor in the BOLC II program. I retired from the military in 2012 after 21 years of service.
After retiring from the military, I started a small business. In 2020, my wife and I moved back to Michigan to be with family and to enjoy the simplicity and peace of country living.
I have a deep passion for hunting and fishing, but I get even more enjoyment out of watching others succeed and experience the outdoors. I am part of Next Mission Outdoors because I enjoy bringing people together and watching them share their experiences and lives with one another.
Every spring, I host a turkey camp that has been very successful. In the fall, I invite several people to our family farm to help manage the doe population. For me, it is not just about hunting, it is about creating opportunities, building friendships, sharing the outdoors, and helping others make memories that will last a lifetime.
Veterans and first responders have thankless jobs, and far too often, we forget about the sacrifices they make and the things they do for our communities and our country. Next Mission Outdoors is here to get them outdoors with other veterans to relax and enjoy themselves, experience new things, make connections and new memories that will last a lifetime.
Mike Kohls
Secretary & Co-Founder
I am an outdoorsman who enjoys deer hunting, fishing, ice fishing, and hiking whenever I get the chance. When I am not out in the woods or on the ice, my girlfriend and I enjoy spending time together on our pontoon, getting out for a round of golf, or heading out camping. For me, the outdoors has always been about more than just the activities—it is about enjoying time with the people you care about, making memories, and sharing experiences that last a lifetime.
I served three years in the Michigan Army National Guard, including a deployment to Iraq in 2008. After my time in service, I continued giving back to my community by volunteering with nonprofit organizations for the last six years. That experience ultimately led me to become a founding member of Next Mission Outdoors. I am proud to help build an organization focused on supporting others and creating opportunities through the outdoors.
Outside of volunteering and enjoying time outdoors, I work full-time as a construction superintendent in Southwest Michigan. I am grateful for the opportunity to bring together my passion for the outdoors, service to others, and commitment to my community through Next Mission Outdoors.
Cruz “Vino” Trevino
Event Coordinator
My name is Cruz “Vino” Trevino, and I serve as the Event Coordinator for Next Mission Outdoors. Growing up in Southwest Michigan, I developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors, engaging in activities such as hunting, fishing, and camping. Driven by my dreams and family tradition, I enlisted in the military in 2012. After serving 12 years on active duty, I was medically discharged (honorably) as a Platoon Sergeant.
Following my military service, I pursued a master’s degree in cybercrime and digital investigations. My decision to join Next Mission Outdoors stems from my personal experiences and the importance of finding purpose, guidance, and support during challenging times. My primary objective is to coordinate events and trips that foster camaraderie and provide ongoing support. Additionally, I offer guidance when necessary to ensure that our nation’s heroes are not left behind.
Sharing diverse experiences at events and on trips serves as a healing process. I relish the opportunity to learn from others and build strong bonds within our community.
CONNECT WITH US
Supporting our community through mission-based outdoor activities and mental wellness initiatives.
Nextmissionoutdoors@yahoo.com
PHONE
+1 (586) 260-0744
LOCATION
Michigan