KURTIS LOFTUS

With more than 30 years of experience, Kurtis’ passion lies in creating success for his clients through outstanding creative services and sound business strategy. He has received regional and national recognition for his marketing, advertising and publishing work as well as multiple industry awards for design and illustration.

A goal-oriented, forward thinker, Kurtis thrives on fostering meaningful relationships and delivering results — even if that means surfing for 31 hours to generate exposure and raise funds for his client. On October 28, 2011, Kurtis set a Guinness World Record for the Longest Surfing Marathon on behalf of The DONNA Foundation, raising more than $11,000 for the non profit.

He is active in a variety of community-based organizations, dedicating time and talent to improving the quality of life for residents and visitors through transformative ideas that promote cultural interests and encourage social engagement.

In 2013, Kurtis founded Deck The Chairs, a non-profit whose mission is to promote the arts and art education through a nationally recognized holiday art exhibit featuring decorated lifeguard chairs. Deck The Chairs is produced through public/private collaborations with strong volunteer support and presented in an accessible, family-friendly environment.

Other art programs initiated by Deck The Chairs included Tiny Chairs and Deck Your Chair Challenge, incorporating tenets from the Makers Movement which emphasizes learning-through-doing in a social environment. The Tiny Chairs program challenged participants to decorate a miniature lifeguard chair. The Deck Your Chair Challenge invited participants to take an ordinary chair and make it extraordinary.

In 2014, Kurtis wrote, illustrated and self-published "Stephen and The SEE Gull," a children's book featuring his grandson and his beach adventures.

An avid outdoorsman and waterman, Kurtis surfs, wakeboards, runs marathons, enjoys painting and working with young artists, and loves regional history.

Recognition
Jacksonville Chapter of American Institute of Graphic Design — Founding Member
American Institute of Advertising 2004 Silver Medalist (AAF’s highest honor)
JAX Chamber Beaches — Small Business Leader 2001 & 2009
JAX Chamber Beaches — Walter R. Murr Award 2009 & 2013 (For Outstanding Service)
City of Jacksonville Beach — WaveMaker Award 2014 (Outstanding Service as Community Leader)
National Exchange Club, 2014-2015 Golden Deed Award
JAX Chamber Beaches — 25 Year Member & Board Member

Non-Profit Marketing, Branding Services, Marketing & Fundraising Support
• Beaches Area Historical Society
• Beaches Watch
• B.E.A.M.
• Players By The Sea
• Donna Foundation
• Friends of the Ferry
• Gator Bowl Assoc.
• CF Foundation
• Tim Tebow Foundation
• River Garden Foundation
• American Lung Association