Sign In
Upcoming Event
Free Newsletter
PRESIDENT AND CEO, MARINE TOYS FOR TOTS FOUNDATION, TRIANGLE
PRESIDENT AND CEO, MARINE TOYS FOR TOTS FOUNDATION, TRIANGLE
Virginia Business// August 29, 2024//
)
While the Toys for Tots program is closely associated with Christmas, the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation has expanded its efforts and now provides year-round support for children in need, including children affected by natural disasters, kids in the foster care system and Native American children. In 2023, the organization distributed 25.5 million toys, books and games to 10.3 million children. The charity spends an astounding 97% of its budget on programs and only 3% on support functions such as fundraising.
Laster took the helm of the foundation in 2020 after serving as executive vice president. He was in the Marine Corps for 38 years, reaching the rank of lieutenant general and serving as chief of war plans on the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He retired from the service in 2018. The Marine Corps presented Laster with the Leftwich Trophy for outstanding leadership in 1989.
The Texas native is a graduate of the New Mexico Military Institute, Southwest Texas State University and the National War College. He is a senior fellow with the National Defense University.
