Years of hard work and service to the community have earned Chris and Michelle O'Rourke of Outback Western Wear the Lone Star College 2011 Small Business of the Year award from a pool of 200 nominees.

"They are very professional, very community-minded and have offered on numerous occasions to help other businesses in the area," said Sal Mira, executive director of the Lone Star College System Small Business Development Center.

The store offers the full spectrum of Western wear for men, women and children, including boots, jeans, cowboy hats, shirts, belts and accessories. Work boots are a staple at the store and they also offer sports jackets for men, hunting apparel and Carhartt jackets.

"Chris works 12-hour days and is always looking toward the next improvement project for the business," Michelle O'Rourke said.

One of the reasons Outback was given the small business award—determined by a council of professionals, bankers and business owners—was for their involvement in the community.

"We are very biased toward helping child and youth-based programs," said Michelle, who has served on the committee for the Young Professionals Network of The Woodlands Chamber.

The O'Rourke's are also involved in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and sponsor a number of local FFA shows.