This article was authored by a local high school student as part of Lookout’s Journalism Scholarship Challenge.
Superhero, role model, icon. Through constant social media use, our society has transformed the concept of a hero – taking it from cape-wearing, web-slinging, save-the-world superheroes, into musicians playing to sold-out stadiums, activists marching on our nation’s capital, or scientists curing diseases. It is as though the mere qualification of a hero has been amplified to the point where an action needs to be big and bold to even be seen as heroic. And while we need big, bold heroes, we cannot overlook the importance of those who may seem to be on the sidelines of the global stage, but who are taking center stage in their local communities every day. One such person in my community is Charlie Baum. He may not wear a cape, play sold-out stadiums or swing through the sky, but he has greatly impacted my life and the lives of all who know him.
Charlie serves our community in the Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office after having served our country as a member of the Air Force. His true passion, however, lies in adventuring with his family and empowering local youth to not only follow but achieve their dreams. When not at work, Charlie coaches a local high school’s mock trial team, runs the weekly youth rifle and youth archery programs at the Scotts Valley Sportsmen’s Club, serves as the assistant scoutmaster for Boy Scouts of America Troop 604, is an Eagle Scout mentor, merit badge counselor, and champion of multiple community service projects.
A third-generation Eagle Scout himself, Charlie is a founding member and original scoutmaster of Troop 673, the first all-female troop in Santa Cruz County, of which I am also a proud member. Scouting opened its program to girls in January 2019, and under his guidance and tireless efforts, Troop 673 grew from its original six members to over 30 scouts in 2024 – giving young women opportunities once available only to boys. Since it began, the troop has promoted five female scouts to BSA’s highest honor: Eagle Scout. His thoughtfulness, sense of adventure and encouragement were instrumental in not only my success in achieving Eagle Scout, but also in my enjoyment of scouting and the invaluable life lessons and skills that I learned. Reminding us that our dreams were “just around the next bend,” he cultivated a tenacious and “can-do” attitude that was not only inspiring, but effective!
In mock trial, a high school club where he serves as the attorney coach, Charlie helps students unravel the complexities of our legal system while making it fun and relevant. Even for those students who do not see law as a future career, Charlie focuses on the life skills of persuasive arguing and the importance of fighting for what is right. When asked about her mock trial experience, team captain and senior Cheyenne J. said, “It’s abundantly clear that Charlie is dedicated to the students — he shares his insights and experiences, indulges our curiosities, which is what fosters students’ passion for law.” She continued, “The way he engages with the content of mock trial cases demonstrates that his dedication is not just to competitiveness, but our learning and enjoyment of the club. I have so much respect for him and everything he brings to the club. Our mock trial club wouldn’t be remotely as welcoming and exciting without his unwavering dedication.”
I once asked Charlie he took on yet another volunteer job as it requires an immense amount of patience and hard work. He responded, “I hope you are learning things about law and the legal system. I hope you are learning how to present yourselves and argue effectively.” It might sound simple, but he values teaching life skills and making sure that the next generation is ready to launch into adulthood. Be those skills public speaking, wilderness navigation, or changing a tire, he wants us to be ready.
“While some superheroes wear capes, spearhead global causes, or captivate a stadium full of fans, others quietly champion the next generation, hoping to pave the way for their successes and triumphs.”
While some superheroes wear capes, spearhead global causes, or captivate a stadium full of fans, others quietly champion the next generation, hoping to pave the way for their successes and triumphs. You might never have met Charlie, you may have passed him on the street and just thought he was a tall guy with a kind smile, but those fortunate enough to know him, know that every outfit he wears, be it a suit, scout uniform or civilian clothing is a superhero cape in disguise.
Similarly to the comic book superheroes of yesteryear who normally “saved the world” in the cloak of darkness, Charlie shies away from the limelight, noting that the success of others is the reward. He is humble, dedicated to supporting our community and always acting in the service of others. He is an unsung hero and deserving of recognition. He works tirelessly to make sure the community is safe, and inspires and encourages others. That is what I call a hero.