Brandon’s Story: From Fatherless to Founder

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Brandon Gingras grew up in the shadows of hardship, a self-described “poor, fatherless white trash” kid in a world that offered little mercy. Born into a fractured family, he faced the sting of poverty and the absence of a father’s guidance. Meals were scarce, hope was scarcer, and the world seemed to label him before he could define himself. Yet, within Brandon burned a quiet resilience, kindled by moments of grace—moments when a mentor’s hand, a prayer shared, or a meal offered in community reminded him he was more than his circumstances.

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As a boy, Brandon found solace in the outdoors, where the rustle of leaves and the rhythm of nature taught him discipline and purpose. He discovered faith, not in grand cathedrals, but in the still, small voice of prayer that anchored him through chaos. And he learned the power of community, breaking bread with those who saw his potential when he couldn’t see it himself. These three pillars—hunting, praying, eating—became the foundation of his survival and, later, his calling.

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Brandon’s entrepreneurial spirit emerged as he clawed his way out of poverty. He built a successful recruiting business, placing talent with top firms across Dallas, Texas where he forged deep relationships with industry leaders, building his reputation and refining his brand a little more with new project. His journey from a fatherless child to a respected businessman wasn’t just about personal triumph; it was about proving that transformation is possible. In 2023, Brandon founded Hunt Pray Eat to give fatherless youth the same lifelines that saved him: outdoor skills to build resilience, faith to find purpose, and community to foster belonging.

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Hunt Pray Eat’s Mission and Vision

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Hunt Pray Eat is more than a nonprofit—it’s a movement to break the cycle of despair for America's youth. The organization’s three “verticals” reflect Brandon’s own path to redemption:

• Hunt: Through mentor-led outdoor programs, youth learn hunting, conservation, and survival skills, fostering discipline and confidence. A single hunt can teach a child they are capable of overcoming challenges.

• Pray: Through prayer retreats, Bible studies, and mentorship with local pastors, youth discover faith as a foundation for hope and character. Prayer becomes their anchor, just as it was for Brandon.

• Eat: Shared meals create community, where stories are told, bonds are formed, and youth find a family they may never have had. A table set with love can change a life.

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