Five Questions for LAURIE SCHAUB

The community leader sits down with SocialAtlanta's Caroline Bentley Edwards to discuss philanthropy and giving back.

Community leader Laurie Schaub – a wife to former Atlanta Falcons player Matt Schaub and mom to five children – has a passion for helping those in our community. With a focus on children’s health and well-being and as a long-time supporter of Make-A-Wish Georgia, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and the Marcus Autism Center, Schaub has spent years leading and supporting initiatives that transform lives. Here, SocialAtlanta contributor Caroline Bentley Edwards sat down with the Atlantan to chat about her social calendar and what is to come. 

Laurie, catch us up — what have you been up to lately in the philanthropic world? 

“Life has been wonderfully busy! My five children are growing up too quickly—I wish I could find a way to slow time down. Beyond family life, I remain deeply involved in philanthropy, particularly with Make-A-Wish, the Hope and Will Ball, and the Season of Hope Ball, which benefits the Marcus Autism Center under Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. These events have been a passion of mine for years, sitting on the Make-A-Wish board now, for over 17 years. It’s a joy to be part of such meaningful work. Matt and I were both raised to give back, and we hope to pass that value on to our children. Meeting the incredible kids we support through Make-A-Wish inspires us and gives back so much more than we could ever imagine.”

The Hope and Will Ball and Wish Ball have been staples in your philanthropic calendar. How have these events evolved over the years? 

“The Wish Ball kicks off Atlanta’s social season each September and has grown tremendously over the past four years. I’ve been on the committee for seven years and even had the honor of chairing it. One of my favorite parts of the Wish Ball is helping attendees understand the profound impact of granting wishes. Many people don’t realize how these wishes can foster hope and even aid in a child’s recovery. Seeing children who’ve defied the odds return as ambassadors or volunteers is incredible. It’s also important to note that each Make-A-Wish chapter is responsible for raising funds locally, so events like this are vital to granting as many wishes as possible. 

Can you speak on your passion for children? What fuels your dedication every day?

“I’ve always loved working with children, whether coaching, teaching, or volunteering—a value my parents instilled in me. Matt and I carried that forward with the G8 Hope Foundation, focusing on health and wellness inspired by our work with Texas Children’s Hospital and Make-A-Wish. Now, as parents of five, we’re even more motivated. We’re deeply grateful for our children’s health and feel a responsibility to support families facing challenges. You never know when life might change, so we’ll keep doing all we can to make a difference.”

Looking ahead, what exciting projects or events are on the horizon for your family’s philanthropic efforts?

“We’re staying active with Make-A-Wish, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and the Marcus Autism Center, though I don’t plan to chair an event this year. Matt and I are also reviving the G8 Hope Foundation, which we founded to build playrooms in local hospitals. Potentially looking to work with Children’s and potentially Emory in the future under this initiative! 

Would you like to leave us with one last thought?
“Absolutely! Overall, I am so blessed to be a part of these amazing organizations. I can’t say enough good things and while this profile is on me, my hope is that I am a vessel to shine a light on these fabulous organizations and their efforts.”