Seattle’s Child is proud to partner with the state Department of Children, Youth and Families Strengthening Families Washington to honor outstanding caregivers doing important work on behalf of children.
All month long, we’ll introduce you to Unsung Heroes from around the state: biological parents, grandparents, foster and adoptive parents. Some volunteer at local schools; some have started nonprofits; some mentor others in their communities. Enjoy their stories.
Nicole and Joe Butcher, Marysville
Nicole and Joe Butcher have been incredibly committed foster parents.
Two children were placed with them three years ago. They have since had another baby and currently have five children in their home, yet each one receives individual attention and care. They have worked hard to maintain family connections and have become good friends with the kids’ maternal aunt, an incredibly stabilizing relationship amid a lot of hardship in these young ones’ lives. In addition to two cousins, this aunt has become extended family to the Butchers and they are all present at birthdays, holidays, and almost-weekly dinners.
The Butchers are Caucasian and the children placed in their home are African American. Nicole learned how to do the children’s hair and has received many compliments — and even requests to do their own children’s hair — from families in their community. In addition, they have pursued additional training in racial equity and have a diverse community of support.
Nicole and Joe have walked with these kids through heartbreak and trauma, prioritizing their well-being and necessary therapies and appointments.
They are good at reaching out for help when needed and have been fierce advocates for what is best for these children throughout the life of the case. Through heavy emotions, traumatic memories resurfacing, loss of sleep, and unexpected behaviors, the Butchers have remained consistent, caring, and empathetic, using their skills in trust-based relational intervention (TBRI) to work toward connection and felt safety. The bond between these children and the Butcher family has been beautiful to witness.
Nominator: Kari James
More Unsung Heroes:
Mindy Livingston has made foster care her life’s mission
Lack of sleep doesn’t stop Kate Ginn from helping kids
Amy Jensen has shown her boys what a mother can do
Through grief, Susan Barbeau has been there for her child, her community
Josie Garcia is passionate about her family and community
She pushed for an adaptive swing, and that was just the beginning
