Darol Rodrock Foundation Announces Chief Operating Office, Mike Helmer

The Darol Rodrock Foundation is excited to announce the hiring of Mike Helmer as our new Chief Operating Officer.

Mike comes to us with an extensive background in youth development and nonprofit organizations. Because of his considerable experience in these arenas, we are excited about his leadership for the Darol Rodrock Foundation.

Early Career in the Shawnee Mission School District

Mike began his career as a middle school social studies and English teacher in the Shawnee Mission School District. He then transitioned to middle school and high school counselor where he was extensively involved in various staff training programs as well as crisis and support groups for students.

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation Experience

In 1990, Mike joined the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation to implement youth development programs. During his 15 years with the Kauffman Foundation, Mike held a variety of positions of leadership, including Vice President of Administration.

In 2005, he became the Chief Operating Officer for the Kauffman Fellows Program at the Center for Venture Education (CVE). The CVE is a separate nonprofit organization created as a spin-off for the Kauffman Fellows Program. The Kauffman Fellows Program is an educational program developed to assist individuals who want to enter the highly competitive venture capital industry.
Because of Mike’s work with the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, he is intimately familiar with foundations and has insight into their operations.

Welcome to the Darol Rodrock Foundation

Mike has always felt a genuine passion for making a positive impact on youth. Because of his tenure with the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, and his service in the Shawnee Mission School District, we believe Mike is uniquely qualified to serve the Darol Rodrock Foundation as our Chief Operating Officer.

Working at the Darol Rodrock Foundation allows him to blend his experiences, skills, and enthusiasm for helping youth in a very significant way.

We are excited to work with Mike and invite you to join us in welcoming him as we move forward to achieve the Darol Rodrock Foundation’s mission and vision!