2024 Iowa Mentor Of The Year

At Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors, we are proud to recognize those who go above and beyond to inspire the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts. This year, we honor Aaron Ohlsen as our Iowa Mentor of the Year for his incredible dedication and enthusiasm.

A Passionate Mentor Making a Difference

Year Started Mentoring: 2023
Events Mentored in 2024: 7
Total Events Mentored: 36

Aaron has been an absolute joy to work with, bringing boundless energy and enthusiasm to each mentoring event. Families and young hunters alike consistently share glowing feedback about their experiences with Aaron. Iowa Program Coordinator Steph Lane said:

“Aaron brings an energy and enthusiasm that is such a rare gift, and the Pass It On Outdoor Mentors program, and the passing on of the outdoors, is better for it! Thank you, Aaron!”

About Aaron Ohlsen

Hailing from Vinton, Iowa, Aaron serves as a Park Ranger for the Johnson County Conservation Board. His love for the outdoors began during childhood, when he spent countless hours fishing with his family on rivers, lakes, and ponds. These experiences fostered a deep connection to nature and conservation, shaping his lifelong passion.

Although Aaron grew up fishing, hunting wasn’t part of his family’s tradition. That changed during his freshman year of college, when his roommates took him on his first turkey hunt. He vividly remembers that morning—navigating the dark terrain, hearing a tom gobble from the roost, and feeling the thrill as the bird strutted closer. That moment sparked a journey into hunting that would shape his future.

Passing It On

Aaron’s personal experience with mentorship drives his commitment to giving back. Reflecting on his journey, he shared:

“Without the mentorship of friends and family, I wouldn’t have been able to experience many amazing things in the great outdoors. That’s why I’m passionate about sharing these experiences with kids who haven’t had the same opportunities.”

For Aaron, mentoring through Outdoor Mentors is more than teaching skills; it’s about fostering connections and creating lasting memories. One of his favorite moments was mentoring a father and son during a youth turkey hunt. Watching the young man harvest his first bird and hearing him excitedly ask his dad if they could hunt together again was unforgettable for Aaron.

A Well-Deserve Honor

Being named Iowa Mentor of the Year is a meaningful recognition for Aaron:

“It’s truly an honor. To be recognized for teaching kids how to hunt, fish, trap, and connect with the great outdoors is pretty special to me.”

Join Us in Thanking Aaron

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Aaron for his exceptional contributions to our program. His passion and dedication exemplify the mission of Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors: connecting youth to the outdoors and passing on the traditions of hunting, fishing, and conservation.

Congratulations, Aaron! Your work inspires us all.