About Todd: Highland resident. Graduate of Munster High School class of 1997. Bachelor's degree in marketing from Butler University. Account executive at Chicago Office Technology Group. Volunteer varsity football coach at Lake Central High School. Member of St. Michael Church in Schererville.
Accomplishments: Todd Compton and his best friend from high school, John Folta, have a tradition of providing for others during the Christmas holidays. Last year they adopted a family with 12 children and were able to provide them with a U-Haul truck full of gifts for the entire family. Each child had six to eight gifts to open and they brought gifts for the parents, too. This year they adopted a family with six children, ages 18, 17, 16, 13, 11 and 2 through The Salvation Army. Folta, Compton and his girlfriend, Dawn Micele, host an open house for family and friends serving appetizers and drinks. In return, they ask attendees to bring whatever they can (a gift or money donation) for the adopted family.
They are always amazed at the generosity and all gifts are delivered before Christmas. "It's unbelievably great knowing we can give back like that," he said describing how it feels to be part of such a worthy cause.
Personal heroes: "My parents, Joe and Linda Compton, of Schererville. They've helped me through everything from school to sports and beyond."
What I read: "Sports magazines, about the (Chicago) Cubs and (Chicago) Bears."
Advice: "No matter what you can, give all you can and be grateful for everything you have in your life."
People might be surprised to know: "My main hobby is getting together with friends."
- SUE BERO, Times Correspondent
To nominate someone for this feature, e-mail slbero@hotmail.com.
