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
  • Two men stand inside a machine shop, with their hands touching as they communicate via protactile.

    How Costco is Supporting Valuable Training for People Who Are DeafBlind

    February 29th, 2024

    In a world that continually strives for inclusivity and equal opportunities, there are shining examples of organizations that go above and beyond to make a difference. One such example is the remarkable partnership between Costco [...]

  • Two portraits, side by side. On the left is a light-skinned man with light brown hair, wearing a suit and smiling. On the right is a medium dark-skinned woman with brown curly hair, wearing a colorful floral shirt beneath a magenta blazer, smiling.

    John Craddock and Lachelle Smith Join the Lighthouse Board of Trustees

    October 18th, 2023

    The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. is excited to announce two new exceptional additions to our Board of Trustees, John Craddock and Lachelle Smith. Their impressive backgrounds, dedication to their communities, and passion for [...]

  • Portrait of Dave Bertsch, a light skinned man with grey hair.

    Welcome New Foundation Board Members

    April 20th, 2023

    Join us in welcoming our two newest Foundation Board members, Dave Bertsch and Yue Ou, at The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. Dave and Yue both bring a wealth of experience and a unique [...]