Meet theTeam
Serving Together
Because Outreach offers so many services across multiple sites, it takes a lot of people with specialized skills to be effective in our ministry. Fortunately, gifted and caring people share our vision for helping others realize their God-given potential. Here are just a few of the Outreach team making this possible every day.
Nate Kaunley, MBA
President & Chief Executive Officer
Nate is a family man with a deep drive to serve others. “My faith and my ethos are aligned with the mission of Outreach." The calling I have pursued has been focused on justice: “Learn to do right. Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow.” (Isaiah 1:17)
Nate has a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Social Work and a Masters in Business Administration from Cornell University. He joined Outreach in 2021 and brings over 14 years of nonprofit and development experience to our team. “Many of the folks we work with face obstacles that challenge their opportunity to be all they can be. It’s incredible to serve at an organization focused on building relationships and removing those obstacles. I’m inspired by our team daily, and it’s an honor to serve at Outreach.”
Nate and his wife have four children. Nate loves anything to do with the outdoors, including hunting and camping. He’s also an avid sports fan, especially for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Vanessa Roth, LCSW
Chief Operating Officer
Vanessa has been part of the Outreach mission since interning with us in 1989. Why? “I’m passionate about offering new and impactful experiences to people who haven’t had the same opportunities many of us have had. And I’m passionate about serving people. All people are made in God’s image with the dignity that only God gives. Outreach believes all people are worth serving and all have the capacity to learn and grow. I love presenting the opportunity people have to find a relationship with Jesus.”
Vanessa has a Bachelor’s Degree in psychology, and a Master’s Degree in social work, and has put those skills to work across all of our locations over the years. She’s a key part of strategizing how best to serve clients, finding creative ways to love our neighbors and help transform lives.
When she’s not working, Vanessa loves spending time with friends and family, traveling, reading, and perfecting her putt.
David Knutsen, CPA, CGMA, CFE
Chief Financial Officer
David has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in accounting, a Doctorate Degree in Ethical Leadership, and professional certifications as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE). David brings a wealth of experience and a unique blend of industry and academic expertise to the role.
Throughout his thirty-year career, David has held key positions, including Chief Financial Officer and Controller. His professional journey has equipped him with the skills to implement and enhance internal controls, deliver timely and transparent financial reports, and foster an inclusive and supportive environment for all employees.
Beyond his impressive professional accomplishments, David embodies a commitment to Servant Leadership. In a landscape where financial success often takes precedence, David's perspective underscores the belief that both people and profits can be prioritized for the benefit of the organization. This philosophy aligns seamlessly with Outreach's mission and values.