If you’ve taken a stroll around Norton Commons lately, you might have seen a bright, smiling face riding a golf cart, grabbing a coffee, or walking two adorable Bernedoodles named Louie and Nash. That cheerful face belongs to 13-year-old Layton Spalding!

Layton and her family officially relocated back to the neighborhood this past June. While she lived here as a young child, returning as an 8th grader at Sacred Heart Model School has been a dream come true. “Now, being 13 years old, it doesn't get much better than having the freedom to grab a coffee, go to the pool, take a walk or hang out at all the fun events,” Layton shares. For her, Norton Commons holds a very special place in her heart, especially Oval Park, where a memorial brick rests in honor of her dad, Stewart Spalding.

While Layton loves dancing competitively and relaxing with watercolor art (she dreams of becoming an art therapist, living by the motto "when you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life"), her true passion is bringing joy to others. In 2024, Layton founded her own 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Light the Way with Layton.

When Layton was just four years old, she lost her dad to glioblastoma. During his hospital stay, thoughtful friends and neighbors sent comfort items like stuffed animals, coloring books, and craft kits to keep Layton and her sisters comforted. Almost nine years later, those small acts of kindness inspired Layton to pay it forward to other kids experiencing loss.

Through Light the Way with Layton, she hand-assembles “Baskets of Light”, special care packages filled with journals, craft kits, books, stickers, and a Squishable to squeeze in times of uncertainty. So far, Layton has reached over 350 children across all 50 states! Layton's mission is "To make sure all grieving children know that they are not alone and that better times are ahead." What she always likes to say is, "the sun will rise again."

Creating these baskets has brought Layton a unique connection to her late dad. "Light the Way with Layton is the bond with my dad that no one else has and that makes me feel complete," she smiles. "I know my dad is with me in every moment of my mission."

Layton’s big dream is to expand her organization internationally! You can support her mission by donating items from her Amazon Wishlist or reaching out if you know a child who could use a Basket of Light.