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2025 IMPACT HERO FINALIST
Anthony Thaxton
Community Manager | Lantower Residential
Dallas, Texas
From Challenge to Purpose
“We do not need to know the beginning of a child’s story to change the ending.”- Fi Newood
Every year, hundreds of thousands of children across the United States enter foster care. Based on the most recent federal data, the National Council for Adoption reports that there are over 343,000 children currently in the system — each with a unique story, a need for stability, and a hope for a better future.
Sadly, many face repeated disruptions, with some moving through multiple foster homes or living without the consistent love and support that every child deserves. Statistics show that children in foster care are at higher risk of academic struggles, mental health challenges, and homelessness after aging out of the system.
And yet, there are people like Anthony Thaxton who are helping to rewrite these stories. He is not only changing the trajectory of one child’s life but also shining a light on the vital work of organizations like Least of These Carolinas, which provide resources and dignity to children in foster care.
A Calling to Foster Care
While Anthony has distinguished himself professionally, it is his personal mission that truly sets him apart. As a first-time foster dad, Anthony has opened his heart and home to 10-year-old Raylen, offering stability, care, and encouragement during a critical chapter in Raylen’s life.
“My own journey through foster care is what ultimately led me to become a foster parent,” Anthony explains. “I know what it’s like to be a child who just wants stability, love, and someone to believe in them. When the opportunity came to step into this role, it felt less like a decision and more like a calling.”
Being a single foster parent has not been without challenges. Balancing the demands of parenthood with a full-time leadership role can be difficult, and some days simply are heavy with trauma-related behaviors and the pressures of schoolwork. However, Anthony chooses to meet those moments with patience and consistency — two things he knows can change the course of a child’s life and what Raylen needs most.
Despite the challenges, Anthony considers the experience his greatest blessing. “Seeing Raylen thrive — whether it’s a smile on his face, progress in school, or small moments of joy at home — fills me with gratitude,” says Anthony.
“He inspires me every day and has taught me so much about resilience, unconditional love, and what truly matters in life. I may be the one providing him a home, but he’s given me just as much in return: strength, perspective, and a deeper sense of purpose.”
Hope Within Reach
It’s through his foster parenting journey that he connected with Least of These Carolinas, a 501(c) (3) non-profit that provides opportunities and resources to empower children affected by foster and kinship care across North Carolina.
When children are removed from their homes — often in crisis situations — they may have little time to gather their personal items. It’s a sad reality that trash bags are used as a temporary solution when child welfare workers have to act quickly and proper luggage or duffel bags are unavailable.
However, for many children, this can feel dehumanizing, as though their lives and belongings are disposable, and it can also deepen feelings of instability, loss, and shame.
When Raylen first arrived, Least of These Carolinas provided him with a personalized duffel bag filled with some of his favorite things, including clothes — a gesture that meant the world to both father and son.
“Their mission is built around the belief that no child should ever have to keep their belongings in a trash bag,” Anthony says, which resonates deeply with him based on his personal experience with foster care. And for that, he proudly supports and advocates for their work, raising awareness of their mission within his circles.
He knows firsthand that foster parents can help change the story of a child's life, opening up a lifetime of new adventures and possibilities and shaping how it unfolds.
Leading With Purpose
Anthony’s passion for giving back doesn’t stop at foster care. He is actively involved in various community initiatives, including Lantower’s Live to Give program, local Charlotte Pride initiatives, and involvement with the Greater Charlotte Apartment Association.
“I believe small acts of service add up to meaningful impact,” Anthony says. “Whether professionally or personally, I try to carve out time to serve.”
His ability to blend operational excellence with genuine human connection has improved the lives of residents, supported his team’s professional growth, and created a positive ripple effect in the broader community.
“Whether solving complex property management challenges, mentoring colleagues, or providing a safe and loving home for a foster child,” one colleague shared, “Anthony leads with empathy, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.”
“From being a foster child to now raising one, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of kindness and consistency.”
Words of Wisdom
His message to anyone considering foster care is simple but profound:
“You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to show up. Foster children need stability, love, and patience more than anything else. It’s not always easy, but it is life-changing — not just for the child, but for you too.”
Safety. Security. Support. And love. Those are the things that matter in life. Anthony wanted to provide the kind of home every child deserves and be the steady presence he wished for when he was younger.
And to those of us on the outside looking in, we’d likely say: Mission accomplished!
From building award-winning communities to creating a safe and nurturing environment for a foster child, Anthony Thaxton’s life is a testament to the power of leading with empathy. His story reminds us that challenges can become a source of purpose — and that each of us has the ability to make a difference in someone’s life.
About Anthony
Anthony Thaxton is known for his ability to build thriving, inclusive communities and empower his teams to excel. He began working in property management in 2005, and throughout his career, he has had the opportunity to work on a wide range of assets, including affordable housing, stabilized communities, garden-style, mid-rise, lease-ups, and more. Each experience has given him a broader perspective on the industry and helped shape his leadership style.
In September, he celebrated four years with Lantower — his “L-anniversary” — and he is grateful to work alongside dedicated colleagues and be part of a culture that values people. He has been recognized multiple times by peers for his dedication, including nominations for Property Manager of the Year, and he has mentored emerging leaders, helping them grow into award-winning professionals.
Outside of work, he enjoys cooking and loves using his culinary talents to make healthy, delicious meals and treats for family and friends. “Food has a way of bringing people together,” said Anthony. “And for me, it’s a way to show love and create memories.”
At home, his world revolves around family, and he remains close to his siblings and extended family. In addition to raising Raylen, he also has two amazing rescue pups, Max and Nyla, who keep life interesting and full of love. They’re part of the family rhythm and bring much joy — and sometimes mischief — into their home.
Grace Hill’s Impact Hero Awards Program recognizes individuals who go above and beyond to help others and make a difference in their local community. Learn more.
Written by Trisha Sheffield, Grace Hill Content Marketer
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