The Faces of ISF… Meet Jeff Laughton
Names/ages of children: Brady (9) & Avery (8)
Years married and to whom: Karen for 11 yearsYears in Charlotte: 10 1/2Neighborhood: Marvin CreekHometown: McLean, VACollege Alumni: Ohio UniversityOccupation: Anti-Fraud Strategy Consultant for Wells FargoYears Involved with the Foundation: 4 yearsWhat is your role with the Foundation: Board of Directors, Director of Corporate SponsorshipsHow did your involvement with ISF begin? 4 years ago, Erin and Stuart created the ISF board. They asked me to be a board member as well as manage everything surrounding our Corporate Sponsorships.What is your favorite story about Isabella? In the early months of knowing the Santos’s and specifically Isabella, she randomly gave me a hug without saying anything or asking for anything – she just wanted to give me a hug. It was a very special moment for me. I also helped Stuart move her play house in the back yard so that it wasn’t directly in the sun anymore as it was too hot. As I was walking away she looked at me and said “Thank you Mr. Jeff” – those were the last words I ever heard her say.What is one of your top ISF moments? There are so many to choose from, but one of my favorite moments is when we announced that we had achieved our goal and surpassed the $1MM in funds raised.
Where do you see ISF in 5 years? In 5 years, I believe ISF will be a nationally recognized pediatric cancer foundation that is known for funding successful and impactful research trials that are saving children’s lives.
What is something you think ISF could improve on this year? We need to focus on being more strategic and less tactical which includes establishing a detailed vision for the future of the foundation, setting goals, and adding more structure.
How has ISF impacted your kids? Because both my wife and I are involved in the foundation our kids constantly hear us talking about the foundation. We also attend a majority of the events and bring the kids with us. They have embraced the foundation and believe in what we are working towards. One of my favorite stories that shows the impact ISF has had on my kids is when my son Brady overheard the parents brainstorming how we can raise more money so that we can continue our mission to save children’s lives, and he went home, grabbed his piggy bank and tried to give it to Erin. He also offered to donate his beloved collection of Skylanders for our 5k raffle.
Who are your role models? My parents – I am who I am because of them. They were both absolutely amazing people and I’m extremely proud to be their son.What is something about you that would surprise people? At the end of high school and early college I had long hair.What is your biggest pet peeve? When people are pumping gas and after the tank is full they continue to repeatedly pull the handle so that it lands exactly on the dollar even though they are paying with credit card.What is the hardest thing you have ever done? I just recently lost my father to cancer and watching him go through what he did to fight it was both inspiring and unbelievably difficult.
What do you love to do in Charlotte? I think the White Water Center is one of Charlotte’s best attractions. My family and I really enjoy going out there to spend time together relaxing by the water, eating lunch there, listening to music, or challenging ourselves by doing some of the activities.
What are a couple of your guilty pleasures? Anything related to Chocolate, but specifically Dark Chocolate, Magic Shell (goes on Ice Cream), and Ghiradelli Dark & Sea Salt Caramel Chocolate squares, Game of Thrones
Who is your celebrity crush? Kristen Bell
What is your favorite drink? Scotch
I have always admired you and your entire family, Jeff. I have seen, first hand, your dedication to your family, your friends, and ISF. I have seen you work not only out in the limelight at many functions but also in the background doing anything that was asked of you. Thank you for all that you do for ISF. They are very fortunate to have you as part of their team.