The Wings Award was created in honor of a young woman named Lauren Kettell, who passed away in 2020 at the young age of 19.  Lauren was the creator and first recipient of this award which represents the kindness, resilience, empathy, dedication and unwavering love that a young individual emulates while serving others.  Congratulations to Harlow Kaye who was awarded this prestigious award at the Summer in the City Luncheon and Fashion Show last April.

Harlow is currently serving her second year on the K2 Adventures Foundation Junior Board and is known for her kindness, support, and dedication to serving others. We asked Harlow several questions about what this honor means to her, what inspires her to serve, and how she hopes to continue making a difference.

What does this honor mean to you?  This honor means more to me than I can put into words. The Wings Award was created in honor of the incredible young woman, Lauren Kettell, who I was unfortunately never able to meet. It represents kindness, resilience, empathy, dedication, and a love for those around, and it is truly special to hear that I embody these qualities.

What inspired your passion for serving others and giving back?  My mom inspired my passion for serving others. From early on, she stressed the importance of following the golden rule—treating others how you would want to be treated. She encouraged me to help others whenever I can, as I would want the same in return.

Can you share your experience serving on the K2 Adventures Foundation Junior Board?  Serving on the Junior Board has been such a blessing. It introduced me to a world focused on helping others, and it is special to be part of that. Seeing the impact K2 has, watching the work that happens behind the scenes, and being able to contribute has been incredible.

How do you balance school at Notre Dame Prep with your volunteer work and activities?  I balance everything by using the time my school gives me to get work done. We have a 40-minute study hall almost every day, and when I use it wisely, I don’t have to spend as much time on schoolwork after school. I also try to finish my work before spending time with friends so I can stay on top of everything.

What has been one of your most meaningful moments while helping others?  One of my most meaningful moments took place in Tanzania on a trip with K2 Adventures. We visited the prosthetic center at NSK Hospital and met a prosthetist named Cece. We watched as she fitted a young woman with a prosthetic leg for free. The woman, who couldn’t walk in on her own, was able to walk out just a few hours later. Seeing that transformation was incredibly special.

What qualities are most important in making a positive impact in your community?  Determination is the most important quality. Consistently working toward a goal and not letting anything stop you can take you far. If your goal is to make a positive impact, staying committed will help you get there.

How has this recognition influenced your goals for the future?  Being recognized has motivated me to continue living out the values of the Wings Award. It is not only an honor but also a responsibility to keep showing kindness, resilience, empathy, and dedication. I plan to carry these qualities with me through my last year of high school, into college, and into my career.

What advice would you give to other students who want to get involved and make a difference?
Don’t be afraid to act. With commitment, anything is possible. If you focus too much on what could go wrong, you won’t make progress. Making a difference starts with having confidence in yourself and your actions.