Volunteer Spotlight: Ted Ratliff August 12, 2025
At HelloBaby, we’re lucky to be surrounded by people who not only give their time, but also pour their hearts into helping children and families thrive. One of those people is Ted Ratliff, a dedicated volunteer whose passion for early literacy and community shines through in everything he does.
Ted grew up in Crystal Lake, Illinois, where baseball was a huge part of his life. These days, he still stays close to the game by coaching in his free time. His journey to HelloBaby began through a connection with Board Member Robbin Carrol. Ted had worked with Robbin’s organization, I Grow Chicago, organizing a literacy program for their summer camp. When she recommended he check out HelloBaby, Ted followed her advice—and was immediately struck by the incredible people who make HelloBaby what it is.
“Once I followed up with her recommendation to get involved with HelloBaby, I was instantly taken back by the amazing people who work there each day and knew I would be lucky to join them in their community-based efforts,” Ted says. “Since then, it has been a joy to work with them side by side, helping to support children and families.”
As a volunteer, Ted helps wherever he’s needed, but his biggest impact has been promoting early literacy and helping families build home libraries. He believes deeply in the power of books to spark curiosity, connection, and confidence in children. He’s also led the charge in organizing fairy garden clean-ups with the baseball players he coaches and mentors.
His time at HelloBaby has been, in his words, “incredible.” He’s inspired by the thoughtfulness and generosity of the HelloBaby team and the strong, trusting relationships they’ve built with community members.
Giving back has always been important to Ted, but he’s especially motivated by the integrity and impact he sees at HelloBaby. He doesn’t hesitate when encouraging others to get involved:
“To anyone looking to volunteer at Hello Baby, I would highly recommend it. I have had the good fortune to bring in a few volunteers myself, and I know they have all been extremely pleased with their experience.”
Recently, we got to return the favor with a surprise pop-up birthday party for Ted in the fairy garden, joined by HelloBaby families and many of his current and former students from University of Chicago Lab Schools. It was a joyful afternoon and a perfect reflection of the connections Ted has built here.
Happy birthday, Ted—we’re lucky to have you in the HelloBaby family!
Amanda Freeman/ Marketing Manager