Meet Kristen Baltrum | Founder and Executive Director of Annie and Millie’s Place

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kristen Baltrum and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kristen, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Honestly, starting my own business wasn’t the result of a detailed plan—it was a response to a glaring need. I saw the gap in services for people experiencing homelessness with a pet, and I felt compelled to do something about it. True to my usual “ready, fire, aim” approach, I dove in, determined to understand the issue and find real solutions.

My inspiration came from my own family’s experience. My sister, Annie, faced homelessness with her dog, Millie, who was her one unwavering source of love, protection, and purpose. Surrendering Millie was never an option, but because shelters wouldn’t accept pets, Annie had nowhere to go. For seven months, they slept outside before finding refuge in an abandoned home—where Annie ultimately died by suicide. I truly believe that if she had access to shelter from the start, with Millie by her side, she would have received the support she needed and still be here today.

That belief became my driving force. It was all the thought process I needed to start working toward a solution—to expand services for unhoused people and their pets so that no one else has to face that impossible choice.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am new to nonprofit leadership in homeless services, but I bring with me a rich career history rooted in relationship-building, volunteer management, networking, and a deep commitment to service. Before stepping into this work, I spent three decades as a Christian Youth and Family Minister, guiding teens and families in exploring their lives through a theological lens. My role was never to dictate beliefs but to walk alongside them—curious about their stories, perspectives, and journeys. Together, we found meaningful ways to serve our community and the world.

After retiring from ministry, shortly after my sister Annie passed away, I found a way to channel my life’s work into something deeply personal. The skills I honed over the years—compassionate leadership, community engagement, and service-driven action—translate seamlessly into my work today.

At my core, my mission remains the same: to serve, to walk alongside others, and to work for the well-being of the most vulnerable in our community and beyond.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
A week with my best friend in Longmont and the surrounding areas would be packed with shopping, great food, local coffee shops, breweries, distilleries, and plenty of time outdoors—soaking in the breathtaking Colorado scenery and sunshine.

We’d start by exploring Main Street, popping into unique boutiques with a mix of new and consigned clothing, all while enjoying the welcoming, small-town vibe. A stop at Meco Coffee would be non-negotiable—it’s where my people gather, and on any given day, I can count on running into at least five familiar faces.

For a taste of Longmont’s craft scene, we’d swing by 300 Suns Brewery for a couple of tasty beverages, paired with snacks from Scratch Kitchen (because who can resist their famous “Couch Potatoes”?). Then, we’d lace up our hiking boots and take on Rabbit Mountain, rewarding ourselves afterward with a drink at Spirit Hound Distillery—relaxing on the covered patio while watching the world go by.

Of course, no week would be complete without a little time on the golf course. We’d play nine holes at Ute Creek or Sunset Golf Course, enjoying the stunning views and crisp mountain air. And to top it all off, we’d close out our evenings in my backyard, gathered around the firepit with something delicious sizzling on the grill—good food, great company, and the perfect way to unwind under the Colorado sky.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I dedicate this Shoutout to the incredible people who have supported this work from the very beginning—my friends who encouraged and believed in me, my Board of Directors who provide invaluable guidance, and my staff team who work tirelessly to bring our mission to life.

When I first began dreaming of building this resource, I realized that my circle of friends had exactly the right skills to help shape the vision and make it a reality. I’ve always believed that certain people come together at the right time for the right reasons, and this journey proved that to be true. The expertise surrounding me—from financial acumen to street outreach experience to nonprofit leadership—was both inspiring and essential.

As we grew, that network expanded, bringing in even more specialists: sociologists, therapists, attorneys, and business coaches, each contributing their knowledge to strengthen our work. Today, our dedicated staff team brings deep expertise in homeless services and administrative excellence, ensuring that we continue making a meaningful impact in our community.

I am endlessly grateful for this team—without them, none of this would be possible.

Website: https://www.annieandmillies.org

Instagram: @annieandmilliesplace

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-baltrum-100b56229/

Facebook: @annieandmilliesplace

Image Credits
Julie Gould, NJK Photography