Parenting can come with its challenges. Rewarding and joyful, but also difficult at times. This past year, parents and primary caregivers have been called upon more than ever to be the buffer for the traumatic experiences our world has faced.
In an effort to acknowledge the powerful work parents do every day, Gov. Inslee proclaimed February as Parent Recognition Month and we are celebrating the extraordinary caregivers in our state with the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families' (DCYF) annual Unsung Heroes campaign.
"This past year has seen inconceivable, unprecedented struggles for Washingtonians. There has been so much uncertainty and change to navigate," Gov. Inslee said. "Parents and caregivers across the state are supporting their children, families, and communities in exceptional ways through this pandemic. They are shaping the Washington of today and of the future, devoting their time and resources to help children and their families thrive."
Each year, DCYF recognizes 28 parents and caregivers in Washington for the roles they take with their families, schools, and communities. They are recognized because they show strength, courage, and empathy. We focus on honoring individuals who have used one or more of the protective factors to make a difference in their community or a child's life:
- Parental Resilience – overcoming hard times and bouncing back
- Concrete Supports in Times of Need – knowing where to turn to for help
- Social and Emotional Competence of Children – knowing how to help children talk about feelings
- Social Connections – reaching out and knowing who can support you
- Knowledge of Parenting and Child Development – knowing where to go for information on parenting skills and children’s developmental growth
This month, we are recognizing another 28 individuals who were nominated for the Unsung Heroes award. We’re partnering with Seattle’s Child magazine to feature one honoree each day. Follow DCYF’s Facebook and Twitter feeds each day to see who the Unsung Hero is.
There will be a virtual Unsung Heroes Awards Ceremony on February 25. Email dcyf.strengtheningfamilies@dcyf.wa.gov to attend or participate in the virtual event.
We hope you find their stories as inspiring and uplifting as we do. To all our honorees: congratulations!