The Team Builder

Laurie McKeown

Executive Director, TEAM for West Virginia Children

In 1986, Laurie McKeown became the first employee of what was then the Cabell County Child Protection Team in a spare office at the Cabell Department of Health and Human Resources—using her own personal typewriter. With a mission to promote child well-being through education, advocacy, and support. TEAM has grown under McKeown’s guidance from a countywide nonprofit with a shoestring budget to the leading child neglect and abuse prevention agency in the state, successfully piloting a number of programs promoting positive relationships and environments.

McKeown is known as an authority on the welfare of children, someone who doesn’t seek to be the center of attention or strident in expressing her opinions, an expert who keeps up with the latest developments in her field. She also leads by example and is regularly sought out for her insights on the betterment of West Virginia’s children.

“When I reflect on my work life, I am grateful that it has involved working with others to improve the quality of life for our fellow human beings, whether that be founding a quality childcare center, supporting victims of domestic violence through a shelter program, or strengthening families and communities so that our children can thrive.”

Written by Tara Wine-Queen

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Since 2014 WV Living magazine has been honoring West Virginia Wonder Women, amazing women who are raising the bar in their communities, serving as beacons of light in their industries, and forcing change for the greater good. WV Living is proud to celebrate these Appalachian mothers, millennials, and mavens proving that in a time full of uncertainty, divisiveness, and hate, love for one another is all we really need. No need for bulletproof bracelets or a golden lasso of truth—these women are creating a better West Virginia with their can-do attitudes and Mountain State spirit.