Catlin was nominated and selected as the 2026 September recipient of the Fresno Chapter of Helping One Woman.
The national nonprofit organization started in Fresno back in 2008 and has grown across different states, supporting women in the community who are navigating devastating trouble or irreplaceable loss.
Caitlin Kurtz's husband, Calvin Kurtz, died unexpectedly at the end of May, leaving behind Caitlin, their teenage son and their daughter, who recently turned 1.
Reflecting on her husband, Caitlin described him as a positive and encouraging presence.
"He's so funny. He was encouraging. I feel like anybody that he came into contact with, like people just were drawn to him," she said.
Calvin worked as a plumber for Fresno Plumbing. Caitlin said he was known for his ability to connect with others.
Helping One Woman Fresno selected Caitlin as its 2026 September honoree as the organization works to support women in the community who are navigating devastating trouble or irreplaceable loss.
Mary Cochron, a leader with the Fresno chapter, said the organization provides a way for community members to support those facing hardship.
"Sometimes when you don't know how to help someone in your community, H.O.W is the way you can actually help them," Cochron said.
Founded in Fresno in 2008, the nonprofit has expanded to other states. The Fresno chapter hosts dinners on the third Monday of each month to honor that month's recipient.
"This is an opportunity for us all to come together, really just kind of wrap our arms around Caitlyn and assure that she's not alone in her walk," Cochron said.
Community members can support Caitlin and her family by attending the dinner, donating raffle or silent auction items, or gifting tickets.
"This is how it started: one woman can buy another woman lunch. Ten women can buy another woman groceries, but 100 women can really change a woman's life. We bring together 100, if not more, women every month to honor our recipient," Cochron said.
Caitlin said her faith and support from the community have helped her navigate the difficult months since her husband's death.
"it just felt like an honor to be chosen for this," she said. "Just knowing that I have that support and that help has been really helpful to help me get through this time."
The fundraising dinner is scheduled for Sept. 21 at Piazza Del Pane in Fresno. Information about tickets is available here.
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