Kevin Smith: A Movement Sparked by One Returned Wallet

Kevin was a perfect first interview for Investing in Kindness. His story was both powerful and practical—grounded in personal values and driven by a sense of responsibility to do more. One returned wallet led to a fully formed initiative—Kindness Week Worldwide.

Kevin Smith did not set out to start a movement. But when a young woman returned his lost wallet on Good Friday 2023 and refused a reward, he felt compelled to act. What began as a simple thank-you turned into something much larger. A local news station aired a story that went viral and resonated with audiences who were inspired. And within weeks, Kevin found himself organizing what would become a community-wide celebration of kindness.

By day, Kevin is the founder and Executive Vice President of a successful wealth advisory firm. He left a promising corporate career in a Fortune 500 company to build a more purpose-driven practice, helping clients align their financial resources with their values. But that journey only deepened his desire to do more. “I always wanted to feel that what I did made a difference,” he said.

The Kindness Week initiative soon evolved into Kindness Worldwide, a nonprofit rooted in the idea that communities can strengthen themselves through kindness. What began locally—with proclamations from city and county leaders—grew quickly. Kevin helped develop frameworks for schools, police departments, nonprofits, and workplaces. These included kindness citations, community events, and measurable campaigns.

His professional background brings a practical lens to the work. “Kindness costs nothing,” he says, “but it creates enormous value—lower crime, higher morale, more vibrant communities.” Kevin sees kindness as a foundation for well-being and community strength: a public good that supports economic growth, health outcomes, and cultural resilience.

He emphasizes that kindness is a choice—and a skill anyone can lead with. His leadership philosophy centers on empowering others. Whether in his firm or his nonprofit, he aims to make himself replaceable by lifting up his team. “It’s not about me,” he said. “It’s about what we build together.”

Today, Kevin works with leaders across sectors. He has been invited to the United Nations, met with U.S. governors, former Presidents, and world leaders, and continues to grow Kindness Worldwide with the support of others. The momentum is real, but his message remains consistent: meaningful change starts with small actions, shared intentionally.

“Kindness is a superpower we all possess. We just need to choose to unleash it.”

Kevin Smith is a corporate leader turned kindness movement builder, who believes that small actions—when celebrated and shared—can change the world. Keep an eye out for more interviews.