Mitchell Capital Management means business when it comes to serving Leawood. They not only serve their clients, but they serve the community through volunteerism
Founded as a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) in 1987, Mitchell Capital on Tomahawk Creek Parkway is an employee-owned, 11-member investment management firm working with individuals, families, foundations, endowments, and other institutional clients.
“We focus on relationships with our clients first, and the business builds itself,” states Phil Kernen, CFA, Portfolio Manager and Principal.
Here are three Leawood organizations benefiting from the company’s hands-on employee volunteerism.
LEAWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Mitchell Capital has been a Leawood Chamber member since 2018. Phil believes that a key pillar to a dynamic and growing city is a successful business community. “As a business resident of Leawood we are vested in nurturing the cohesiveness and interrelated connections that foster that success.”
As an ambassador for the Chamber, Phil welcomes new members and helps them make connections to support their business growth. As a board member, he helps set the Chamber agenda and allocates limited resources to meet those goals.
“Helping small business owners succeed and even grow enough to hire and serve others is only one example of giving back to the community, but if you do it well and consistently, the effects can be broad and longstanding,” Phil says. “Our business wouldn’t be where we are without the help of others along the way. It’s only natural to want to return the favor for the next one willing to step outside her comfort zone and take a risk.”
Phil adds that the most rewarding aspect of his role is “living the logo of the Chamber: Business Personalized.”
“People do business with others they trust. Trust comes when you see others as people first before business prospects, which is the proper order. It’s a culture that encourages we get to know someone before trying to sell a product or service.”
LEAWOOD ROTARY CLUB
Mitchell Capital Vice President Jonn M. Wullschleger, CFA, is the current president of Rotary Club of Leawood. He believes Rotary is an excellent opportunity to support Leawood while building friendships and learning about other local philanthropic entities.
“Whether it’s helping mentor high school juniors and seniors for college success and scholarships, or working to eliminate polio, our club members are making a difference in the lives of others,” Jonn says. “We take action to improve the quality of life of those in need and help youth develop learning and leadership skills. Our members include leaders in government, education and business who understand how to collaborate and make things happen.”
He says the most satisfying part for him is mentoring juniors and seniors who then receive collegiate scholarships and are prepared with a plan to achieve their goals as they enter their next phase in life.
“We have high school clubs, collegiate clubs and business professional clubs,” Jonn says. “Community projects are easy and can be done by all age groups. Our efforts impact local schools, human trafficking victims, veterans, and international communities through our donations of clean water filtration systems and our support of Project C. U. R. E. to get medical supplies to underdeveloped countries.”
Jonn adds how easy and fulfilling it is to volunteer for a few hours and see the impact on the community. “Small efforts have a tremendous impact on others.”
LEAWOOD BOY SCOUT TROOP 10
Boy Scout Troop 10, one of the largest troops in the country, has operated for 48 years in Leawood. Mitchell Capital Management President Ken Green, CFA, and Equity Analyst Rob Day are longtime active volunteers. Rob has volunteered for 17 years and is currently the Scoutmaster responsible for the youth program. Ken has filled numerous roles over 14 years and is currently focusing on youth membership.
“The most rewarding aspect of our roles is helping kids prepare for adulthood,” they say. “Learning is most effective when it is made fun, and kids take part in Scouting because it’s fun. Navigating interpersonal relationships with peers and adults takes time and practice. Activities like campouts and earning merit badges provide opportunities to practice the fun technical skills and the life-enhancing soft skills of being part of a community.”
Ken and Rob teach outdoor skills, leadership skills, life skills and the importance of community service. They add that Scouting is one of the best places for youth with special needs and disabilities. “We are proud to offer many opportunities that allow our scouts to become their best selves and to experience great new things outside their normal life routine.”
Scouting offers boys and girls opportunities to learn new skills alongside their peers. “Many outward-focused, community-based activities are designed to recognize a need and serve others in ways both large and small.”
For more information, visit mitchcap.com
