February is Parent Recognition Month. Strengthening Families Washington, of the Department of Early Learning for Washington State, believes there is no better way to recognize a parent, grandparent, foster or adoptive parent than by acknowledging the numerous and impressive things they do to strengthen their family and those around them in their community.
Seattle's Child is proud to sponsor the Washington Unsung Hero Awards, recognizing our everyday heroes and honoring the important role caregivers play in children's lives. There are 28 nominees for the 28 days of February, and Seattle's Child will highlight each and every one.
Congratulations to the Unsung Hero for February 15:
Catherine Miller – Lake Stevens
I have known Catherine for 6 or 7 years. When I met her she had recently moved to Snohomish County after Hurricane Katrina had buried her home and her belongings. She came to this area with her daughter and three grandchildren to make a new start. Since then her youngest grandchild was adopted by another family member at Catherine's initiative.
Catherine has faced adversity with grace and dignity and kept her children safe and secure and loved. Her home is organized, the food is good, and her kids are always well groomed, rested and ready to do well in school. Over the years that I have known Catherine she has worked, been laid off, been in school and been on TANF. She has struggled with low income and always her home remained stable. She has had health issues and still her home has remained stable.
Catherine has taught her children and grandchildren to be respectful, hard working and kind. Her daughter Candace is an excellent student and is musically gifted. Catherine has helped Candace develop her singing talent by encouraging her to be in the school choir and in the drama program at school. Catherine says that Candace has a beautiful natural singing voice. Candace is also a good babysitter.
The younger girls both have learning challenges and Catherine has made sure that they have received the help that they need in school. The youngest has health issues too and Catherine takes her to regular doctor's appointments and makes sure she is getting the medical care that she needs. Both girls are thriving and happy 10 and 11 year olds. Catherine has made sure that her girls were respectful in school and she makes sure that they are respected back.
Catherine has developed a support system that has benefited her children and herself. She is a member of a grandparents group who meet regularly and support each other. She and the girls are active church members. Catherine is a PTA member and has been on the board. This way she keeps an eye on her girls and supports their school.
Catherine is a beautiful person inside and out. She treats all people well. She stands up for her children when need be, she makes sure they behave and thrive. She gets to know their friends and makes sure that they are a good influence. Catherine is a good role model for her children who always come first and for others including myself. I hope you consider her for this unsung hero award. She certainly deserves it.
Nominator: Janet Harding
