Leighton Britton

Leighton Britton, Development Associate
212-400-3952
Leighton@echoinggreen.org

Leighton graduated cum laude from Wake Forest University in 2005, and began a year of full-time service with AmeriCorps at Community Health Services, a health care nonprofit in Charlotte, NC. After completing her AmeriCorps service, she moved to New York City where she worked in advertising sales for a national radio corporation. While working in advertising sales, Leighton studied Business Management at Columbia Business School. Leighton has always been passionate about nonprofit development and fundraising, and felt that the corporate and classroom experience were an excellent complement to her nonprofit work. For her last semester at Columbia, Leighton interned with two NYC nonprofits, Common Cents and Synergos, in order to gain more hands-on experience in the NYC arena of social change work. Leighton holds a BA in English with a minor in Women and Gender Studies from Wake Forest University, a certificate in Business Management from Columbia Business School, and a certificate in Nonprofit Management from Duke University.    

Why do you do what you do? (wdydwyd)

wdydwyd sign: I am only one, but I am one.  I cannot do everything, but I can do something. 

I believe that each and every one of us has something unique to contribute to humanity, but sometimes people may feel like they do not have enough or have anything to offer. Social change missions are remarkable in that they are entirely inclusive vehicles for change and they do not discriminate. Whether you can give a dollar, an hour of your time, or the clothes in your closet that you haven't worn for 10 years, you are making a difference in someone else's life!

What drew you to work at Echoing Green?

The people! At my previous internships, I had done research on a few of the Echoing Green Fellows and was moved by the creative and remarkable work they accomplish. The fellows and their organizations are an unending source of inspiration. However, it is not only the fellows who are influential, but also the Echoing Green staff. When I began interviewing for my position here, I was immediately drawn to the staff's dedication and passion for social entrepreneurship.  I am honored to have been accepted into this wonderful network of people who spark change!

What book are you currently reading?

Tender is the Night, F. Scott Fitzgerald

What do you do for fun in your free time?

Spend time with my family and friends, read, and explore NYC.  

When was your last Be Bold moment?

Signing my AmeriCorps Service Agreement. Fresh from college graduation, many of my friends were embarking on corporate careers with sparkling salaries, but I knew that for my personal growth and career goals, becoming immersed in nonprofit, social change work would be the best starting block for my future.

In the next month, I plan to…

Get involved with more volunteer opportunities.   

Any pets?

Not yet—I’m looking forward to the day that I have a large enough apartment suitable for my dream dog, a German Shepherd/husky mix!