In this heartwarming and energizing episode of the Landmark Difference Makers Podcast, we sit down with Cathy Tutty, a longtime attorney, Landmark graduate, and International Trustee of Kiwanis International. From her hometown of Butte, Montana to service projects around the globe, Cathy brings her passion for youth leadership and community service to life through her work with Kiwanis and beyond.
Creating the World We Want to Live In
Cathy’s deep belief that “every child—no matter their age—deserves to be happy, healthy, safe, and loved” fuels her tireless advocacy for youth empowerment. That commitment began early in her life, inspired by her parents’ values and enriched by her own personal growth, including powerful breakthroughs through Landmark’s programs.
One of her most transformative moments came during the Landmark Advanced Course, when a shift in how she related to her younger sister opened the door to a whole new understanding of connection, listening, and love—a realization that continues to shape her work with children and communities to this day.
Why Kiwanis?
While Cathy didn’t found Kiwanis, she chose it wholeheartedly after a life spent in service—and today, she’s helping to reshape the organization’s impact. Kiwanis is dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time, with programs like K-Kids, Builders Club, Key Club, and Circle K. These initiatives empower young people to take the lead in creating change—from organizing food drives to building playgrounds and providing weekend meals to classmates in need.
Cathy’s leadership helped her local club adopt playgrounds as a mission, resulting in new recreational spaces for children across Montana. She now supports and mentors Kiwanis leaders around the world, including student-led Key Clubs and college-level Circle K members.
Play, Possibility, and Laughter Yoga
Known for her playful and unconventional leadership style, Cathy doesn’t lead “workshops”—she leads “play-shops.” Whether it’s laughter yoga, Nerf footballs, or reframing conversations, Cathy knows the key to transformation often lies in joy, connection, and authentic human interaction. She believes people are waiting to be asked to contribute—and when you make the request with heart and purpose, they’ll often say yes.
A Message for Today’s Youth
When asked what scares her most about today’s youth, Cathy names smartphones—not because they’re inherently bad, but because they sometimes replace real conversation. But what excites her most is the boundless creativity and compassion she sees in the next generation. From building community fridges to expressing themselves through art and service, Cathy sees young people as leaders—not someday, but right now.
A Lasting Legacy
When asked how she hopes to be remembered, Cathy offers a simple and moving response:
“She cared as much about the people who cared about her as they cared for her.”
✨ Want to hear Cathy’s full story? Listen to the episode now and discover how choosing service—whether you start something or join something—can be your greatest contribution.
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