On July 31, Bloom gathered with foster families, staff, friends, and loved ones for a meaningful celebration of two extraordinary fathers whose commitment to children exemplifies the very best of foster care.
Bloom presented the inaugural Nazeeh Shabazz North Star Fatherhood Award to foster father Tom Riley. The award was created in memory of longtime Bloom foster parent Nazeeh Shabazz, whose love for children and dedication to fellow foster families left an enduring mark on the Bloom community.
Nazeeh fostered with Bloom for more than five years and was known as a fierce advocate, trusted mentor, and devoted father. Every child who entered his home was immediately treated as family and reminded that they were loved, valued, and capable of accomplishing great things.
“Nazeeh Shabazz was, in every sense, a north star: steady, guiding, a light that others could follow home,” shared Pamella Talley, Bloom’s Senior Vice President of Foster Care and Prevention Services.
It was fitting that the award’s first recipient was Tom Riley, who, along with his wife Lucy, became a Bloom respite foster parent after supporting another foster family through Promise686.
Since becoming licensed, Tom and Lucy have opened their home 63 times to 20 different children, providing 329 days of care. Whether a child stays for a weekend or several months, Tom makes sure they experience something every child deserves: consistency, safety, joy, and a sense of belonging.
His support also extends far beyond his own home. Tom regularly steps in to help other foster families, demonstrating the power of a community willing to show up for one another.
Perhaps the most meaningful reflection of the Riley family’s impact is a notebook kept in their home. Before leaving, children can write a letter to the child who will stay there next. Each begins with the same words: “Dear the next foster kid.” Together, the letters tell a powerful story of children who came into a temporary home and left knowing they were safe, loved, and that they belonged.
Bloom is honored to celebrate Tom Riley as the first recipient of an award that will ensure Nazeeh Shabazz’s legacy of fatherhood, service, and unconditional love continues to inspire others for years to come.
The Nazeeh Shabazz North Star Fatherhood Award is now proudly displayed at Bloom’s main office, serving as a lasting reminder of the extraordinary difference one caring adult can make in the life of a child.
Take the first step today. Learn more about becoming a foster parent with Bloom at https://bloomfosters.org/our-programs/foster-parenting/.
