Ashlee and Chris Kleinert Inspire Others Through Passion
by Kristin Cicciarelli | Contributor
“Nothing of significance was ever accomplished without passion.”
–Ralph Waldo Emerson
Ashlee and Chris Kleinert embody this philosophy vividly. In 2008, amidst the nation’s economic downturn, the Dallas-based couple, parents to three adult children, established Executives in Action (EIA), a nonprofit consulting organization dedicated to pairing unemployed senior-level executives with charitable organizations. “With high unemployment rates, we witnessed firsthand how job loss could profoundly affect individuals and their families,” Chris shares. Concurrently, numerous nonprofits faced difficulties in maintaining their operations due to dwindling donations.
“EIA creates a dual impact,” Ashlee notes. “On one hand, executives gain a sense of purpose through their contributions, while nonprofits receive valuable expertise they might not afford otherwise. This is not just a temporary fix; it’s an impactful experience,” she emphasizes.
Since its launch, EIA has collaborated with over 270 nonprofits and engaged nearly 700 executives. They are currently exploring a new initiative called “Students in Action,” aimed at harnessing the philanthropic zeal they see in younger generations.
Ashlee, daughter of Nancy Ann and Ray L. Hunt (CEO of Hunt Consolidated), witnessed charitable endeavors throughout her childhood. The idea of silent philanthropy has remained a constant in her life, a value she has shared with Chris since their first meeting. In her gentle demeanor, Ashlee states, “Chris and I aren’t anything extraordinary—we’re simply part of a team filled with exceptional individuals and collaborative spirits, all working to determine how we can create the most impact.”
The couple also launched Ruthie’s Food Trucks, a thriving business initiated by Ashlee in 2011. One of Ruthie’s charitable initiatives, Ruthie’s Dozen, highlights a different nonprofit each month through social media and print campaigns. “We realized the sides of our trucks would be perfect for sharing information. Customers can learn about a nonprofit while they wait for their food. We’ve received wonderful responses from donors, volunteers, and even beneficiaries who weren’t aware of the services available,” Ashlee explains.
Another initiative, Ruthie’s Random Snacks of Kindness (RSK), aims to support the community by providing complimentary meals to those in need. The recently introduced Executives in Action Kind Truck enables executives to distribute items like school supplies, canned goods for food banks, and provisions for fire victims.
Recently, the Kleinerts have also dedicated their efforts to New Friends New Life, an organization supporting women and girls who have experienced trafficking and sexual exploitation. While Ashlee has long been involved with this group, the couple recognizes the increasing prevalence of trafficking. Earlier this year, the organization inaugurated the Men’s Advocacy Group, consisting of twenty men committed to raising awareness and education. “While stricter drug laws are a positive step, the unfortunate reality is that many drug dealers have shifted towards trafficking, and the laws haven’t adapted accordingly,” Chris remarks.
In a startling discovery, Ashlee came across a human trafficking operation right in the office park where Ruthie’s is located. The diminished parking situation and the sight of numerous men frequently entering and exiting what otherwise appeared to be an unoccupied office led her to alert the authorities, who subsequently shut down the operation. “Trafficking is happening around us,” she asserts. “We must enhance our awareness and take action.”
The Kleinerts’ passionate dedication to their causes is indeed infectious. As they tirelessly apply their efforts towards various initiatives, Chris shares insightful advice: “Identifying your passion is crucial—discover what drives you to help others. Your greatest contributions will come from your strongest passions.” Encouraging others to chase their goals mirrors the essence of Ashlee and Chris Kleinert.
