MICKY RUPP & RICHLAND NEWHOPE

HOMETOWN HONOREE: MICKY RUPP

A LIFE FULL OF ENGINEERING FUELED BY FAMILY LEGACY

From engineering some of the earliest go-karts and minibikes, to racing in the Indianapolis 500; one could say Mickey Rupp has lived quite the adventurous life.

The son of Herbert Rupp (founding partner of Gorman-Rupp pumps), he was raised with an entrepreneurship mentality. Mickey was willing to take chances, never settle, and always kept an incredible work ethic. These traits, mixed with his natural business sense, created the perfect combination to build a globally re-known brand.
Rupp Industries began in the basement of his home, after he realized there were ways to improve on the go-kart kits he used to buy and sell for fun. The kits would ship from California, and consisted of pre-cut tubing that required the customer to assemble and weld together. After finding flaws in the engineering of the kits, he decided to design a square frame that would greatly improve the ergonomics.

As the need for his product grew, he was forced to find a larger space for his business. He later moved his operation into a small space in Gorman-Rupp, before building his own facility. Popularity for his go-karts quickly propelled him onto the National stage and Rupp’s products were featured monthly in magazines such as MotorTrend and Motorsport. As the brand grew, so did the ability to offer jobs and opportunity. Rupp created thousands of jobs for locals throughout the 1960’s and 1970’s, until he later sold the company.

Similarly, he repeated the process in Florida after discovering problems with the outriggers on his fishing boat. After making a set for himself, friends began asking for a set of their own. Thus, Rupp Marine was born. Now operated by two of his sons, Rupp Marine is internationally recognized as an elite outrigging brand.

FOR LOVE OF RICHLAND COUNTY

Mickey’s success took him all over the world, but one thing is certain, he never called any of those places home. Mansfield has always been that for him, and always will be. “You can take the boy out of the farm, but you can’t take the farm out of the boy.”

HOW HE TAKES HIS COFFEE

A little cream and two sugars, please

MICK RUPP CHOOSES: RICHLAND NEWHOPE

Richland Newhope, officially known as the Richland County Board of Developmental Disabilities (RCBDD), exists to make a difference. We work with individuals, families, guardians, and caregivers to help develop a plan unique to each individual. Our experienced staff shows you how to identify available options and then connect you to the services that fit your needs.

Our focus on finding the right path for you or your loved one is our top priority. If you are a parent of a child with disabilities, we can help, starting with early intervention and preschool. As your child transitions from school into adulthood, Richland Newhope will work with you to help your child achieve his or her goals. We also provide support for adults by connecting them to local services, such as supported employment, residential supports, and community clubs/organizations.

Through the month of October, a nickel from every purchase will be directed toward this incredible organization, doing incredible things. Nickle and Bean is proud to, with the support of our community, show our support!

To find out more or make a donation please visit: https://www.rnewhope.org/