The Virginia Down Syndrome Association announced last week that Michael Baum is its new executive director. Baum assumed his role on Aug. 5.
“We are excited about Mike joining us at VDSA because of his experience leading statewide organizations,” Billy Hamm, VDSA board chair, said. “In the last two years, we’ve had a 25 percent increase in the number of families we serve across Virginia with our programs and direct services. We’re supporting hundreds of families and individuals with Down syndrome and know we’re capable of doing more under Mike Baum’s leadership.”
Baum brings nearly 30 years of for-profit and nonprofit leadership experience. Most recently, he served as the executive director at Chesterfield CASA, an organization that ensures the voice and best interests of children who are court-involved are represented through volunteer advocates.
Prior to that role, Baum was the executive director of Keep Virginia Beautiful, relaunching the organization in 2010. He served as a vice president at Special Olympics Virginia, leading development, fundraising and marketing efforts. He also led marketing efforts for The Supply Room Companies. He brings a wealth of event planning, business and community development, volunteer management and even sustainability-focused experience.
“I’ve long been an admirer of the Virginia Down Syndrome Association and the incredible work of the organization,” said Baum. “It’s no easy feat to lead a nonprofit organization, let alone build a supportive and welcoming community for individuals with Down syndrome and their family members and caregivers. Working at Special Olympics Virginia for 12 years and focusing on the abilities of the person as opposed to the disabilities is important. Right now, VDSA is in a great position to expand its programming, training and services to more regions, make deeper inroads within the philanthropic space and strengthen our relationships with members.”
Baum added that he applauds the organization’s 40 years of accomplishments and looks forward to building on that progress in his role as executive director.
Baum is a Newport News native and lifelong Virginian. He earned a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in sports management from Virginia Tech. He lives in Chesterfield with his wife, Sharon, and dogs, Beamer and Bailey. His three children Jack, Brian and Carly have recently graduated or are currently at Virginia Tech.
The Virginia Down Syndrome Association (VDSA) is a nonprofit organization committed to supporting, educating and advocating for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. The Association envisions a community in which individuals with Down syndrome are fully included and valued members and raise awareness to create opportunities for members to achieve greatness.
VDSA serves more than 800 families in 52 counties throughout Central Virginia, Williamsburg, Charlottesville, Fredericksburg and the Central Shenandoah Valley.
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Rebecca Barnabi
