Fresno County Community Hero: Lou Dawson

State of the County 2025 Honoree Spotlight We had the honor of recognizing Ms. Lou Dawson for her extraordinary compassion and dedication to Fresno County’s most vulnerable children. For the past 16 years, Ms. Dawson has opened both her home and heart to care for more than 45 infants in foster care, many arriving directly from the hospital at birth. She has provided both short-term emergency placements and longer-term care — giving each baby the love, stability, and nurturing they need during life’s most fragile moments. Her selflessness has not only given babies the very best start in life, but also allowed social workers the peace of mind to focus on reunification and permanency for these children. Humble in spirit and always quick to credit others, Ms. Dawson represents the very best of our community. By celebrating her, we also honor all the families who answer late-night calls, change plans, and open their homes to children in need. Join us in applauding Ms. Lou Dawson for her remarkable service and lasting impact on Fresno County’s foster care community.