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
Zhuo Bin Yu and Yu Ping Yu – Seattle
"Kids are bone of our bones and flesh of our flesh," said Mr. and Mrs. Yu. The Yu family came to Seattle with two severely autistic children in 2006. Mr. Yu has been their caregivers since they were born. The early life stages were full of challenges and almost no hope in China. There were many times both parents wanted to give up. But with the parents’ strong belief that they should bare all consequences no matter what happened to their kids, Yu's family has been able to bounce back and overcome hard times all these years.
A lack of language and culturally relevant supports remains the biggest challenge for new immigrants. After being lost in social connections for two years, Mr. Yu finally connected to Chinese Information and Service Center, which helps him connect to many social services provided by community partners.
"We didn’t know there are so many families with children with disabilities – we are not alone!" said Mr. Yu. Mr. and Mrs. Yu began to participate in many parenting workshops. They made some friends and continue to build up their social support system so they know where to turn to in times of need.
Yu’s two sons are now 24 and 26. They are receiving job coaching, volunteer training and speech therapy and they show signs of improvement. "The biggest achievement for coming to this state is seeing my kids exploring different opportunities."
Both parents demonstrate the "never give up" spirit, and unconditional and sacrificial love for their sons.
Nominator: Boliver Choi
Singing the Praises of Our Unsung Heroes
Read about all of the wonderful, everyday heroes who have won Washington Unsung Hero Awards: seattleschild.com/2015-Unsung-Heroes.
