Stream team volunteers get most of the publicity, but Friends of the Hylebos depends on some key volunteers working behind the scenes to keep the operation running. Ramona Soule has been volunteering in the Friends' office since 2004, helping prepare newsletter, fundraiser, renewal and Ruby Dance mailings, and providing event support for Ruby Dance.

She explains her support for the Friends' work by putting it into a historical context of the insults that have been inflicted on the stream. She points to the Commons Mall, where the stream once originated. "I tell people what a shame it is [the headwaters were developed]. We have to do whatever we can to help the stream."

Ramona says she's always been involved in volunteer work, and after moving to Federal Way several years ago, finding a way to get involved in the local community was a natural. "I enjoy the feeling of giving back to the community," she says.

In addition to her work with the Friends, Ramona also volunteers for the Rhododendenron Species Foundation and Tall Ships Tacoma.