Amber McKinney: This 'wonder woman' goes above and beyond for foster kids

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.

Amber McKinney, Washougal

Amber McKinney has gone above and beyond with her former and current BRS foster children.

She exhibits resilience and strength, she is very tenacious, a strong advocate and is not afraid to ask for help. Many people that work with her are impressed by her ability to be nurturing and patient.

Her passion lies with being a parent: As a little girl she wanted to be a foster parent, and now she is living her dream caring for children. Her biggest strengths are her ability to work in a team and with biological parents. With her former foster children, Amber maintains positive and healthy connections with the biological families. This is one of the many reasons why social workers enjoy placing children with the McKinney home.

Over the course of 2021, Amber is what you call a wonder woman. She has her team wondering how she does it all. She has not utilized any respite days and took on the role of being a foster parent, visit supervisor, a teacher, and a wife with no day care to eight kids. Yes, there were times that she wanted to throw in the towel; however, with the support of her team, she managed to pull through and came back stronger than ever for 2021. The children in her home look up to her resiliency and know they could count on her if they needed anything. It is a pleasure working with Amber and I look forward to the future placements to come.

Nominator: Esmeralda Quiroz