Finding a Way Towards Conscious Connection

Why I Got Started

Feeling a sense of belonging is a basic need, yet in the United States we are suffering through an epidemic of loneliness.

  • Navigating a socially distant world during the COVID crisis dulled our relational awareness and stamina.

  • We are still learning how to interface in virtual settings.

  • In many circumstances, technology distracts us and causes us to be less present.

  • Our communities have become increasingly divided even among people with similar values and ideals.

  • People are exhausted from trying to make ends meet or juggling multiple priorities.

All these circumstances leaves us with little room to just connect. Yet, authentic connection is both an integral part of our survival and a significant fulfilling component of our lives.

Found Digs Deeper

The depth, sense of safety, and inspiration for growth that we feel through meaningful interactions can seem foreign in our world today, but they don’t have to be. Found designs and facilitates programming for companies, nonprofits, community groups, and individuals seeking to build or merge new teams, strengthen group dynamics, and deliver a playful and warm experience for guests at your intentional gatherings.

Connection Consultant

After moving to a new state, Found-her, Caryn Oppenheim, started organizing regular themed gatherings for friends, colleagues, and even strangers to connect. There was something about a good friend telling Caryn to transform her passion, experience, and talent facilitating intentional spaces into a business during a road trip that motivated her to take the leap several years later.

Inspired by the need for authentic connection, especially during times of isolation, Caryn founded Found Creative Connections to help individuals and groups rediscover the value of genuine relationships. With over 13 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Caryn, has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of intentional connections. From creating forums for people to explore their biases and identities as a diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioner to developing a mental health program matching therapists to clients, Caryn has seen how the right introductions at the right time can create positive professional and personal experiences for people resourced in different ways and at various levels.

Whether it is the potential for a job opportunity, a life-long friend, answers to lingering questions, or a chance to be seen, she stays fueled on the business of connection.

To read more about Caryn’s professional, volunteer, and educational background visit here.

Values in Facilitation

Vulnerability & Depth

My favorite groups to work with are those who explore their areas for growth, name their fears, and model transparency. When facilitators and participants demonstrate authenticity, trust often becomes the pathway towards sustainable connection.

Playfulness

I was raised on consistent doses of goofiness and puns and will offer moments of lightness while working together. If you struggle with vulnerability, feel reserved in groups, or find it hard to play, we have a reputation for setting up safety by carving out space for introverts, establishing group norms, and serving as a friendly, warm, and thoughtful facilitator.

Shared Accountability

I believe in community-informed approaches with integrity-driven support from leaders. I have served in both leadership positions and as team contributors. I understand the necessity of creating brave and safer spaces to access participation while also holding that people have to be ready and open to connect and push their comfort levels to transform relationships and group dynamics.

Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging

As someone who holds multiple marginalized identities and training in partnering with diverse communities, I am primed to attune to power dynamics and facilitate a container where inclusion and equity remain prioritized.

I welcome additional questions you may have about my facilitation style.