Influential Woman · Nonprofit education
Kim Karr
Executive Director/Co-Founder, Kim Karr
Antioch, CA
Her Story
About Kim
She is a visionary leader, speaker, and co-founder with over a decade of experience in digital citizenship education and youth empowerment, currently serving as Executive Director and Co-Founder of Digital4Good x #ICANHELP, a nonprofit organization she has led since 2020. Under her leadership, the organization has reached over 12.5 million students, with her personally training over 480,000 students and educators nationwide. She has delivered keynote speeches and workshops at conferences, professional sports arenas, and leadership events including NASSP, MOASSP, Yankees Stadium, and the Digital Wellness Summit, and has collaborated with tech leaders including Google, SnapChat, and Facebook. Prior to co-founding #ICANHELP, she served as Activities Director and PE Teacher at Excelsior Middle School for 13 years. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Health and Physical Education from Upper Iowa University and a Master's in Student Activities from the California Association of Directors of Activities. She is recognized as a passionate, inspiring, and impactful leader who is deeply committed to equipping students, educators, and communities with the tools to foster positive online environments.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kim
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, purpose, and the willingness to believe in my work even when others didn't yet see the vision. As a woman and entrepreneur, I’ve learned that success rarely comes from having everything figured out; it comes from being willing to take the first step, learn from failure, and keep moving forward. I’ve faced challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt, but each one has taught me to trust my voice and stay committed to what matters most. I’ve also learned that you don’t have to fit someone else’s definition of success. You can create your own path, lead with authenticity, and build something that reflects your values. Most importantly, I attribute my success to the people who have supported, challenged, and believed in me along the way. Their encouragement has reminded me that we are stronger when we lift each other. As women, we don’t have to compete with one another; we can open doors, share opportunities, celebrate each other’s wins, and create space for the next generation to lead. My greatest measure of success is not simply what I have accomplished, but how many women and young people I can inspire to believe they can accomplish hard things too.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
“Don’t wait for permission, ask for forgiveness.” I’ve carried that with me throughout my career, especially when stepping into spaces where I didn’t have a clear roadmap or when people questioned whether my ideas would work. I learned that you won’t always feel ready, and you won’t always have everyone’s approval, and that’s okay. Sometimes you have to trust your instincts, take the risk, and figure it out along the way. I’ve also learned the importance of surrounding yourself with people who challenge you, believe in your vision, and genuinely want to see you succeed. As women, we can sometimes feel pressure to prove ourselves before taking the next step, but confidence often comes after you take the leap, not before.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to other women is simple: Know your worth, use your voice, take up space, and don't be afraid to create your own table when you aren't invited to one!
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.