2024 Rising Star Award: Ashton Barlow

By Kalie VanDewater

Rising Star Award

Ashton Barlow

Development Director
Isabella Santos Foundation

When you find work that you are passionate about, it is exciting to dive right in and make an impact. This year’s NonProfit PRO Rising Star Award recognizes Ashton Barlow, who found her calling in the nonprofit sector early on.

Barlow was first introduced to the Isabella Santos Foundation (ISF), a nonprofit dedicated to improving treatments for children with rare pediatric cancers, during high school when she volunteered at the organization’s annual 5K fundraising event.

Inspired by her time volunteering, Barlow later joined Isabella Santos Foundation’s first-ever internship program, where she stepped up to serve as the intern lead.

“During that pivotal summer, Ashton raised over $32,000, showcasing her drive and commitment to making a difference,” one of Barlow’s nominators told NonProfit PRO. “This achievement not only exemplified her capabilities, but also laid the groundwork for her future career within the organization.”

Barlow’s successes as an intern led to her promotion to intern program manager by 2021, and then to her current position of development director a year later. At 25 years old, she oversees major fundraising campaigns, builds relationships with donors and plays a large part in expanding Isabella Santos Foundation’s annual giving society, the Three Wish Society.

One of Barlow’s recent accomplishments was orchestrating the 2023 Speakeasy Soiree, which became the organization’s most successful fundraising event ever with $530,000 raised, according to one of her nominators.

And although she is still in the beginning of her career, Barlow mentors younger people involved in Isabella Santos Foundation’s mission, from interns to volunteers. This has helped foster “a culture of compassion and commitment” at the nonprofit, one of her nominators said.

“What truly sets Ashton apart is her genuine passion for the mission of ISF,” one of her nominators told NonProfit PRO. “She doesn’t just work behind the scenes; she is actively engaged and often the face of the organization, forging connections with the children and families that ISF supports. This firsthand experience has allowed her to witness the transformative power of the funds raised by ISF. She understands that these contributions lead to significant medical advancements and provide families with precious moments together. These personal relationships drive her determination to ensure that every event, campaign and donation has a meaningful impact.”

As she continues in her career, Barlow has a long-term goal of expanding Isabella Santos Foundation’s reach across the Carolinas and beyond.

“Through her relentless advocacy and fundraising efforts, Ashton has already left a significant mark on the nonprofit sector, and she is undoubtedly poised for even greater achievements in the years to come,” one of her nominators said.

Another nominator added, “Her journey from a dedicated volunteer to a vital leader at ISF illustrates her passion, commitment and ability to make a tangible difference in the lives of children facing rare cancers.”