Brad and Wendy Layland: A Journey of Faith, Family, and Philanthropy
Brad and Wendy Layland are a dynamic couple whose lives are deeply intertwined with faith, family, and a shared commitment to making a difference in the world.
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Brad met Christ in high school through the ministry of Young Life, setting him on a path of faith and service that has defined his life. He earned his B.A. in Communications from the University of Florida and later, his M.A. in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary. Brad's journey with Young Life continued as he dedicated two decades to the organization, culminating in his role as Chief Development Officer. In 2009, he transitioned to The FOCUS Group, becoming its CEO and later purchasing the firm in 2012. Under his leadership, the firm has grown twentyfold, now serving over 100 Christian ministries with a team of 45 staff and consultants, and helping clients raise over $2 billion. Brad has spearheaded major capital campaigns for organizations such as Intervarsity Christian Fellowship, Union Rescue Mission, and The Bowery Mission. He also authored “Turning Donors into Partners,” a top new release in Philanthropy and Charity on Amazon.com.
Brad's entrepreneurial spirit led him to found Endless Summer Realty, the largest residential real estate brokerage in St. Augustine, which closed over $250 million in transactions in 2023. He is also a founding board member of Veritas Classical School in St. Augustine and the initiator of an annual “Giving Day” in the city, a platform that has significantly boosted local nonprofit fundraising efforts raising more than $2.5M since it’s inception
Beyond his professional achievements, Brad enjoys running marathons, skiing, investing in real estate, entrepreneurship, and traveling with his family. Over the past 20 years, he has completed 64 marathons and two Ironman triathlons. Brad was elected and ordained as an elder in 2008 and has served in numerous capacities within his church community.
Wendy shares a similar dedication to faith and service. She committed her life to Christ at 15 through Young Life and was actively involved with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship in college. Wendy holds an undergraduate degree in Social Sciences from Flagler College, a Masters in Christian Leadership from Fuller Seminary, and a doctoral degree in Christian Worship from The Institute For Worship Studies.
Wendy's early career included a two-year internship with Young Life, where she started the ministry in Ponte Vedra, Florida. As a singer/songwriter, Wendy released two albums and performed in churches and cafes worldwide during the late 1990s and early 2000s. She has served on the board of The Association of Biblical Higher Education and currently serves on the board of The Institute of Worship Studies.
Together, Brad and Wendy reside in St. Augustine, Florida and Richmond, VA. They have four children: Max, Dakota, Jack, and Sydney.. Their family has traveled to over 45 countries, experiencing diverse cultures and reinforcing their global perspective on faith and generosity. Through their combined efforts in various ministries, leadership roles, and community initiatives, Brad and Wendy Layland exemplify a life dedicated to service, faith, and philanthropy.