The City of Lakewood and the Clover Park School District have unveiled the ‘Hidden Heroes’ program, a month-long initiative designed to spotlight Black or African American professionals who are significantly contributing to the local community. This initiative, now in its fourth and final week, turns its attention to local entrepreneurs, showcasing the impactful work of individuals such as Deb Tuggle and the co-founders of Etcetera Tacoma, Perris Wright and Umi Wagoner. These community leaders not only excel in their business ventures but also in their commitment to uplifting those around them.

Empowering Through Entrepreneurship

Deb Tuggle’s Lakewood-based business is a testament to her dedication not only to excellence in production but also to her workforce’s growth and well-being. Producing 14,000 cookies per hour for global distribution, Tuggle’s company stands out for its commitment to diversity and education. By offering to fund educational opportunities for her employees, Tuggle ensures that her business’s success is shared with those who help make it possible. This investment in education highlights a broader commitment to community development and inclusivity.

Strengthening Community Bonds

Etcetera Tacoma, under the leadership of Perris Wright and Umi Wagoner, epitomizes the ethos of community engagement through their lifestyle brand. With a focus on local themes and landmarks, their clothing designs serve as a canvas for expressing local pride and unity. The ‘Every End’ t-shirt line, in particular, celebrates Tacoma’s diverse neighborhoods, contributing to a sense of community identity and cohesion. Through their creative endeavors, Wright and Wagoner have established a brand that resonates deeply with the South Sound’s residents.

Inspiring Future Generations

The ‘Hidden Heroes’ program’s broader impact is perhaps most keenly felt among the youth, as evidenced by the engagement of Harrison Preparatory School’s Black Student Union. The initiative’s focus on celebrating Black and African American leaders across various professions provides invaluable role models for young people. Seeing leaders who look like them in diverse fields underscores the message that their aspirations are attainable and that their contributions are vital to the community’s fabric.

The ‘Hidden Heroes’ initiative in Lakewood serves as a powerful reminder of the significant impact that individuals can have on their community. By highlighting the contributions of Black and African American entrepreneurs, the program not only celebrates individual achievements but also fosters a sense of pride and unity within the community. As this initiative concludes its fourth week, it leaves behind a legacy of inspiration and a call to recognize and support the diverse talents among us.