Unsung Heroes who help kids in Washington state

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.

Suma Kumar, Everett

I am nominating Suma Kumar for the Unsung Hero award because of the advocacy that she engaged in last fall.

Suma and her family met with their legislative candidates to talk about the importance of supporting individuals with disabilities and their families. Their story was very moving and commanded the attention of the candidates. She was vulnerable and shared a very heartwarming and at times painful message about the struggles that families face, the uncertainty and the vast need for services to support families, so that families can support their children’s high needs.

Families are often overwhelmed and unable to give their time to this level of advocacy, yet there are so many stories that need to be heard. It is a gift when a family can make the commitment to be the voice for so many families. These stories influence change, they help to change policies and promote funding for services. Without the time and effort of families like Suma, the voices of the countless families and individuals would be lost.

Suma and her husband work full time, their oldest son went off to college and they are raising their youngest son who is significantly impacted by his disabilities and yet she has still dedicated her time to advocacy. Thank you Suma for your service, time and dedication to improving the lives of individuals with developmental/intellectual disabilities and their families.

Nominator: Jessie Moore