As Danny’s uncle, Tom is blessed to know just what Danny Did, day in and day out, and is eager to spread the word about the way that Danny lived his life and to work with the Danny Did Foundation to help individuals and families who cope with seizures.
Tom has more than 10 years of experience working with non-profits in various capacities, from volunteer work and mentoring, to public relations, events management and sitting on boards of directors. Tom has spent his career primarily working in the communications field, including several years as a spokesman for former Cook County State’s Attorney Dick Devine. He has earned excellent standing among Chicago and national media outlets through his work as a media relations professional for various private and public sector organizations. He has also served as a spokesperson during the winning political campaigns of several elected public servants, including Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart and former Congressman Rahm Emanuel. He began his career as staff writer for a national magazine.
His pursuits outside the workplace are rooted in community service and volunteerism, centered on 15 years spent as a youth sports coach and mentor. He is a former board member for Special Children’s Charities, the fundraising arm of Special Olympics Chicago, an organization that serves the needs of more than 5,000 special needs athletes. He has volunteered as a mentor through the Uhlich Academy on Chicago’s North side, and as an assistant basketball coach at Loyola Academy, his alma mater.
Tom holds a journalism degree from the University of Dayton, and a master’s degree in Public Policy from DePaul University.
More than anything, Tom gained happiness from the love Danny gave by way of lots of hugs. He is thankful to have the chance to keep Danny’s spirit alive through service to the Danny Did Foundation.
Tom can be reached at tfstanton@dannydid.org.