Spreading Kindness, Making Care Possible
Paul’s Way began with a simple, shared belief between two sisters: kindness matters — and everyone should have access to mental health support when they need it.
But the story didn’t start with a platform or a plan.
From an Unexpected Invitation to a Big Idea
It started with an envelope in the mail, an invitation to interview for the National American Miss pageant. At the time, I was buried in my M.A. studies, so Brandon took Kay to the interview. Lynley asked if she could tag along, and I said yes, but only Kay would be interviewing and warned her that she would see kids her age, but we thought she was too young.
Well, pageant interviews can move fast, and before Brandon knew it, both girls were accepted into the NAM state pageant… in Iowa, of all places, for a North Dakota title. That first year, we were significantly underprepared, but the girls had an absolute blast.
The following year, with one pageant under their belts, they wanted another shot. We pivoted and tried International Miss, which turned out to be a wonderful (even if still slightly green) experience. And it was there, in the sparkle and excitement of preparing for the event, that Paul’s Way was born.
A Platform with Real Heart
Their message was simple: Kindness.
The girls’ International Miss platform centered on raising awareness for mental health and covering the cost of counseling for people who otherwise couldn’t afford it. They named their project Paul’s Way in honor of their belief that kindness should always be part of the path forward.
They raised $900 through their platform and quietly donated it to two local counselors, helping pay off mental health bills for clients in need. It wasn’t flashy. It wasn’t loud. It was exactly the kind of good they hoped to put into the world.
Meet the Co-Founders
Kaylyn’s Goals:
Aspire to compete as an Olympic gymnast in the 2032 Summer Olympics
Study mental health counseling in college
Continue growing Paul’s Way through kindness projects and fundraising for unpaid mental health bills
Kaylyn’s Perspective:
“I stand up for kindness and do not think the ability to pay should prevent someone from getting the mental health support they require. Leaders don’t do everything themselves but find help to succeed.”
Lynley’s Goals:
Become a professional ballerina and dancer with Micaiah’s Studio of Ballet
Continue adding animal kindness to Paul’s Way projects
Lynley’s Perspective:
“When my sister and I came up with the idea for Paul’s Way, I spoke up and decided that we needed to add animal kindness to our business. A leader stands up for their beliefs and fights to see their ideas come to life.”
What’s Next for Paul’s Way
This is just the beginning. More funding is on the horizon from other projects, which means more opportunities to cover the cost of mental health counseling for those who need it most, and to expand the kindness projects that make Paul’s Way unique.
The mission remains the same: to stand for kindness and remove financial barriers to mental health care.