Caitlyn McCabe
Hi, I’m Caitlyn—a student at Notre Dame Belmont High School, where I balance a full academic schedule, student council, athletics, and a growing commitment to giving back.
Starting this organization has changed the way I see the world—and my place in it. It’s helped me put my own challenges into perspective and opened my eyes to what so many other teens are going through: loss, lack of resources, family struggles.
Instead of feeling helpless, I’ve learned to use what I have to help others. Giving back has taught me that even the simplest actions carry weight and meaning. Kindness has become a part of who I am, and I know it always will be.
If I could give one piece of advice to any teen who wants to make a difference, it’s this: You don’t need to do something huge to matter. A small act of kindness can change someone’s day—or even their life. Start small. Start now. Just start.
A little bit about me
English is my favorite subject (I’m a big nonfiction reader), and when I’m not buried in books or studying for exams, you’ll probably find me doing something active. I play volleyball, soccer, and tennis. I like pushing myself to try new things, even if they’re a little outside my comfort zone. Most recently, I tackled a mock trial program and I led my group to win our case.
I’ve spent my high school years active in leadership roles such as student council, coaching and tutoring. Leadership has always mattered to me, and Keep It Kind is a huge part of that. Starting KIK has changed how I think about the world. It’s shown me how many teens are facing tough challenges—things like loss, family struggles, and not having access to basic resources. It’s made me more grateful for what I have and taught me that giving back isn’t just something I do… it’s part of who I am.
When I think about my goals for the next ten years, my plan is to work hard to earn a degree, pursue a career I am passionate about, and continue to give back. I want to keep it kind, stay close to the people who matter to me, and live in different places to better understand lives that look different from mine.