Seattle’s Child is proud to partner with the state Department of Children, Youth and Families Strengthening Families Washington to honor outstanding caregivers doing important work on behalf of children. Throughout February, we’ll introduce you to Unsung Heroes from around the state: biological parents, grandparents, foster and adoptive parents. Some volunteer at local schools; some have started nonprofits; some mentor others in their communities. Enjoy the stories of 2025’s unsung heroes.
Lou Baum, Bremerton
I would like to nominate Lou Baum to be recognized as an Unsung Hero.
I met Lou a little over a year ago through a mutual friend. We connected over our love for our community and our desire to help parents see themselves as leaders through the experience of advocating for change.
She understood that giving parents more pathways to find social connection would improve their own concrete supports and that this would lead to resilience. She understood this because it’s exactly what worked for her. Before she knew to call them “protective factors,” she was implementing these things in her own life.
We started dreaming about creating a group for parents in Kitsap County. A group that would increase connections, which improves resiliency. We made that dream a reality. Now with her help, every month, parents have a place to gather and learn from each other. They have one more “concrete support,” should they need it.
In our arrangement, I tend to be the person who looks like the leader because I do so much talking. You see, a lot of people talk about all the things they want to do, but Lou just does them. She doesn’t make a lot of fuss or seek the spotlight. She isn’t after any recognition, but it’s exactly what she deserves, so I hope you will choose her and honor her because she is a clear example of an “unsung” HERO!
Nominator: Natasha Fecteau Minger
NOTE: Seattle’s Child is running these stories unedited, as written by the people who nominated them, in keeping with the DCYF Unsung Hero process.
More Unsung Heroes:
Olivia McGuire: A ‘powerhouse of love’
This inspiring family perseveres
