richkapp

At makesense, a renowned Paris-based organization with a volunteer strength of 20,000+, I took the reins of the Lisbon Hotspot. My mission: Transform it into an electrifying hub for dedicated changemakers and impact-focused startups. Key Achievements & Responsibilities: • Community Sustainability: Developed a strategy promoting consistent involvement, instilling a sense of mutual dedication and unity towards our overarching mission. • Collaborative Framework: Deployed project management tools, ensuring every collaborative idea transitioned smoothly from conception to realization. • Networking Hub: Curated frequent networking events, cultivating a thriving ecosystem for professionals to share insights and resources. • Civic Activation: Initiated community activities that championed active citizenship and a shared ethos of societal responsibility. • Empowerment Workshops: Conducted sessions tailored for social entrepreneurs, equipping them to overcome obstacles and maximize their societal contribution. • Communication Strategy: Orchestrated a comprehensive communication blueprint, from dynamic social media campaigns to informative newsletters, fostering perpetual community engagement. • Strategic Partnerships: Cultivated relationships with key stakeholders in Lisbon's impact sector, solidifying our community's foundational role in the city's transformation journey. • Team Leadership: Led and inspired a multifaceted team of 15 across five committees, fostering unity in vision and mission, and fortifying our impact-driven pursuits.

I recognized a unique opportunity after feeling the amazing vibes coming from this social innovation hub in Lisbon. I wanted to do more than just curate a typical coworking space; it was about shaping an environment where every individual, every idea, and every interaction contributed to a thriving, purpose-driven community. • Strategic Advising: As a trusted advisor, I delved deep into the challenges faced by social entrepreneurs. Through 1:1 sessions, I provided actionable insights, strategic direction, and mentorship. It was about unlocking potential. I became a sounding board, a strategist, and sometimes, a cheerleader, ensuring every member felt seen and supported. • Bridge-Building Events: I didn't just organize events; I crafted experiences. From intimate gatherings to larger forums, each event was designed to bridge the gap between the local social impact community and those eager to immerse themselves in our values and vision. • Community Lunches: Melting pots of ideas and cultures. They became platforms for shared stories, forging bonds that transcended professional ties. • Mindfulness Integration: Transition Tuesdays became our collective reset button. A 15-minute meditation ritual that helped us transition, reflect, and refocus, ensuring we approached our tasks with clarity and purpose. • Operational Mastery: Behind the scenes, I was always fine-tuning. I introduced systems and processes that ensured our space ran like a well-oiled machine, enhancing the experience for every member. I was more than just a curator; I was a connector, a bridge-builder, and a firm believer in the transformative power of community. Every initiative, every event, every conversation was a step towards creating a space where ideas flourished and collaborations sparked.

After being incredibly inspired by the impact I was making with Project Brigid, I spearheaded MIXLife, a venture that aimed to bridge the gap between locals and travelers at scale. Our journey was meteoric, spreading our wings across 11 countries and 15 cities in just two years. However, like many ventures, we faced the unforeseen challenge of COVID-19.

In 2016, I founded Project Brigid with a vision to bridge the gap between locals and tourists, fostering mutual understanding and cultural exchange. The initiative aimed not just at tourism but at creating a platform where local individuals could enhance their language skills, share their traditions, and gain insights into diverse cultures. Central to this was the MIX Model (Mutual Interest eXchange), a unique approach I developed to facilitate themed activities and events. This model was instrumental in creating genuine connections and was embraced enthusiastically by both locals and travelers. During peak seasons, I led a team of 5-7 volunteers, primarily sourced from platforms like Workaway.info, ensuring that our mission was consistently delivered.

As a Sales Representative, I had the responsibility to sell contracts ranging from $10,000 to $250,000 over the phone. I provided access to audiences of unique and powerful brands such as the NFL, NBA, NHL, NCAA, USTA, PGA, NASCAR, Grammy & Oscar Awards, USA Today, and the Special Olympics. My duties included making contact with marketing executives to present available print media properties and educate them on how their merchandising allowance can generate additional streams of revenue Conducting extensive research to identify the best fit between the company's exposure needs and available print media properties before making contact.

In 2009, a journey to Spain led me to the St. James Way and subsequently to Albergue Las Herrerias, a youth hostel surrounded by nature. Initially a brief stopover, it became a pivotal four-year commitment, transitioning me from visitor to co-owner and managing partner. Our project became a tangible example of the benefits of regenerative principles. I became a new person. Our interactions with the local community were rooted in shared learning. We demonstrated the possibility of growing hearty tomatoes without pesticides, and our neighbors reciprocated by sharing their traditional regenerative practices. This mutual exchange strengthened our farming methods and deepened community ties.

As a Campaign Manager, my primary role was to galvanize and lead a team of over 20 volunteers, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose in our collective efforts to elect Ann C. Brady as Judge in the 32nd Sub-Circuit of Cook County. My community-centric approach was evident in my responsibilities.

My father, Richard Kappel, another partner, and I co-founded a comprehensive health insurance brokerage catering to small and medium-sized businesses, ranging from 5 to 500 employees. Our partner, both an accountant and a lawyer, provided invaluable guidance to our clients, and in turn, we referred our clients to his services.

I was the youngest employee in company history to win a Salesperson of the Month award in February 2004. I was promoted to conceptualize and implement an idea for re-connecting with owners of business that were not interested in our services. I develop a strategy of researching qualified organizations to further understand their needs before reaching out to present a discounted rate in order to earn their business.

Developed and managed the telemarketing strategy and department. • Introduced the methodology for contacting prospective clients. • Created the telemarketing presentation which had various elements to confront a wide-range of objections and obstacles.