We had the good fortune of connecting with Mike Papi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mike, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I love this question. There is one factor to me more important than all others. It’s commitment. There is a quote that illustrates the importance of commitment. Usually attributed to Johann Wolfgang von Goethe or William Hutchinson Murray, the quote is “Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back. Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one’s favor all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would have come his way. Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.

Begin it now.” Regardless of who is credited with this quote, it’s powerful and will propel anyone to achieve their dreams. My commitment to begin and build a philanthropic organization without a benefactor or seed donation to me is the most important factor for its early success. However, as the quote states, the commitment brings to us all factors of meetings, events and decisions that together are leading to our success.

Our message is simple, when asked the question, why OneGoat? Our response is to ask us who the Greatest Of All Time is, who our GOAT in life is, and our answer will always be, first responders, every single ONE of them.

We started with a logo that creates curiosity and opens a door to tell our story of why the organization exists. We are still growing and evolving but with every first responder, or first responders’ family we help, our mission strengthens. Civilians respect the professions of first responders. Our goal is to educate civilians on how much and what first responders need. If we are successful, within a short amount of time, those they serve and protect will truly understand the importance of supporting our first responders when they need it most.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
OneGoat is a recognized 501c3 dedicated to supporting Colorado’s first responders with financial assistance when they need it most.

OneGoat’s mission is to provide financial assistance to support Police, Fire, EMS, and Dispatch personnel at the critical time when they need it most. We are a part of a resource ecosystem designed to provide first responders with the critical support they need when injured or otherwise unable to work. Not only do we raise funds to bridge financial gaps for first responders, we are also dedicated to helping fill informational gaps that connect first responders with mental, physical, and therapeutic resources in our partner ecosystem.

My work revolves around helping our communities’ first responders. As a civilian, I was never a first responder. This gives me a unique perspective when providing support. Civilians like me, have a reverence for first responders but we don’t really know to what extent they need our help – both physically and mentally. If a first responder is not 100% healthy, they can’t work. First responders are wired to help, and that type of empathy for their communities requires mental investment into their work. They are exposed to so much trauma to others that it is impossible for them to separate their lives from the lives they serve. Mental health is paramount for first responders. Being able to proactively give them the tools to manage their mental well-being or help them cope with current mental health needs is critical when supporting our local heroes. That’s what we do. If you are a first responder and in need of help, contact us.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When good friends or family come to visit, it is always a whirlwind of good food, hiking and golf. Visitors can’t beat sunrise at Red Rocks, the food at Angelo’s, whisky at Rocker Spirits or golf at Bear Dance. Let’s not forget within an hour, there are so many mountain hikes that can serve the soul.

Come visit, let’s play. Life is for living.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Success of mine or any brand, product or service travels a journey of evolution and inspiration influenced by so many. OneGoat is no different. I opened myself up to suggestions, constructive criticisms and ideas from so many to help evolve our mission and goals for the brand. So many friends and family have supported the brand and the mission. Too many to mention in this article, and too many not to disappoint those that have given me the energy to keep going.You all know who you are and you all are a part of the OneGoat Family.

Thank you for everything and let’s keep going to make a difference.

Website: www.onegoat.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onegoatfoundation/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onegoatfoundation/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onegoatfoundation

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEiCcy8uqQM7xpoHlrGOryg

Image Credits
South Metro Fire Rescue

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.