Kirk Laughlin

Kirk has been a fundraiser and nonprofit leader in the Seattle area for over 25 years in the areas of education, disabilities, and social services. He was formerly on staff with The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. and is currently the Director of Philanthropy at Summit Community Center, an organization serving young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He’s also worked for Academy for Precision Learning (APL), an independent K-12 school serving neurodiverse learners. His other organizations include Seattle Children’s Museum, Youth Eastside Services and Pacific Science Center.

Kirk is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) and holds a Master’s in Nonprofit Leadership from Seattle University. He is a frequent trainer and panel member on philanthropic topics through the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), the Fundraising Academy at City University, and the Washington Nonprofit Conference.

He’s served on nonprofit boards and committees for over 15 years. In addition to The Seattle Lighthouse for the Blind Foundation, he has held volunteer roles with the University District Rotary Club, the Washington state chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), and AFP International.

Selfie of Kirk, a light skinned man with glasses and a goatee, smiling in a snowy driveway
  • A portrait of Brad Wiens, a light skinned, grey haired man wearing a grey suit.

    Thank You to Our Donors

    June 15th, 2021

    We are incredibly thankful to our generous donors and community members for making a difference in the lives of people who are blind, DeafBlind, and blind with other disabilities every day.

  • A medium portrait of Katy Beck, a light skinned, blonde haired woman. She is smiling and wearing a large purple necklace and purple blazer.

    Katherine Beck, 25 Years of Service | 1996 to 2021

    June 15th, 2021

    We thank Katy for her commitment to the Lighthouse and its mission. During her 25 years of service on our Board of Trustees, Katy was involved with the initial opening of the Base Supply Center business, participated in the expansion process to our Spokane and South Carolina locations, played a part in hiring the Organization’s first CEO who is blind (Kirk Adams) and was instrumental in the recruitment and hiring of our current President and CEO, Cindy Watson.

  • Close up portrait of Barbara Ross, a light skinned woman with grey hair. She is standing outside, smiling, wearing red lipstick and a scarf.

    Barbara Ross, Foundation Board President | 2015 to 2021

    June 15th, 2021

    It is with hope and confidence that I will be passing the torch of Foundation Board presidency to longtime friend of the Lighthouse, Brad Wiens. I will be remaining on the board, and I am excited to see the fabulous work we have started continue to flourish under Brad’s leadership.