Brandon Bellissimo

(Owner-Operator)

Born and raised on the north side of Chicago, Brandon enjoyed the natural areas that Chicagoland has to offer since his youth. The Caldwell woods was one of his favorite places to explore, which helped shape his love for the outdoors. He left Chicago in 2014 to attend university, and spent time living in rural Wisconsin and Vermont during his studies. His time in these areas further deepened his connection with nature.

He has spent his time after university working in the Recreation and Education fields across the United States and Canada, encouraging people of all ages to connect to with the outdoors. In his free time, he enjoys coaching youth soccer, writing, and hiking.

Brandon’s credentials are listed below:

  • M.A in Education: Leadership Coaching and Mentoring

  • Certified Forest Therapy Guide (ANFT)

  • NAI Certified Guide

  • Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED (American Red Cross)

Bruno Bellissimo

Chief Financial Officer

A lifelong Chicagoland Native Bruno has spent more than 20 years working in public finance serving local municipalities throughout the whole area. Despite his career in finance Bruno has always found a way to get outdoors such as water sports, soccer, and even long walks with his dog.

When he found out that his son was ready to take a leap to start Chicagoland Kayak, he stepped back from government side of finance to be the full time CFO for the small business. After many years inside behind a desk he knows the importance of getting out into nature and relaxing. On the days he isn’t crunching numbers you can catch him at Beck Lake helping out with the day to day operations.

Bruno’s credentials are listed below:

  • Master of Public Administration (MPA)

  • Bachelors of Business Administration (BBA) Accounting

At Chicagoland Kayak we are a Small Family Operated Business, who you see is who you get. We are here to serve the Chicagoland Community with quality kayaking experiences that stimulate mindfulness, recovery, nature connection, and enjoyment for all.

A Family Operated Business