Northern Essex Community College student caitlin little has only lived in Haverhill for a couple years. But in that time, she’s immersed herself in the local community.

Initially hailing from Nebraska, little is a general studies major and a member of NECC’s PACE program. “I’m a non-traditional student.” little shared. “This is the first time being in school for 17 years.”

Similar to many, little’s biggest obstacle when it came to seeking further education was cost. “I thought, ‘well if I go to school, how will I pay for it?’” Though she moved to Haverhill just two years ago, little knew she needed to take advantage of the MassReconnect program. “I’m here, I should make the best of it. So, I decided to go back to school.”

caitlin little on stage at the Art Space show

Today, little is a vibrant member of Haverhill’s arts and culture scene, with her passion for community engagement influencing numerous projects and programs.

little’s move to New England came after she accepted an AmeriCorps VISTA position in arts and culture. She was drawn to New Hampshire because of the chance to contribute to a region that needed her experience and enthusiasm. Her dedication to community service quickly became evident in her roles at local organizations.

She currently serves as the Community Engagement Director for Arts in Reach (AIR), a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young women and gender-expansive youth through creative experiences. In her position, little is responsible for fostering connections between AIR and local communities, ensuring that the organization’s programs are inclusive and accessible to all. Her work allows her to create meaningful partnerships and encourage personal development through the arts.

But her contributions to local communities extend beyond her role at AIR. little has become a volunteer with Haverhill Promise, where she has volunteered in their book buddy program. “Book buddies rules!” little shared. “I am really invested in literacy programs so this was really fun. This is my second year and I plan on continuing.”

caitlin participating in the Arts In Reach clothing drive.

“I’ve spent a lot of time working in accessibility particularly for the arts” said little. “The arts are key to placemaking and wellbeing, and to making life cool”

This summer, little is taking on an exciting new challenge as the co-chair of both the fundraising and marketing committees for Haverhill’s first-ever Pride Parade. The event promises to be a milestone for the city, and little is excited about the opportunity to help make it a success.

“If you would have asked me even two years ago whether I would be back in school I would say that’s outrageous” said little. “I’m a first-generation student. I dropped out of high school. I am challenging a thousand years of hurt and generational trauma. But I am doing it!”

little’s enthusiasm for service and community engagement shows no signs of slowing down and hopes to inspire others to get involved. She was recently chosen as one of Essex County Community Foundation Creative County’s 2025 ChangeMakers cohort members alongside Haverhill city council member Kat Everett and 10 other community members. She will also be attending Emerson College in the Fall to study writing, literature, and publishing.