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.

Teri Gilk, Goldendale

I have worked with kiddos who have been placed in Teri’s care for several years. She is great with kids of all ages as well as kiddos with special needs.

One of the things that really impressed me early on is Teri’s ability to support not only the child she is caring for but also how she supports the family when reunification has started. She has included parents in medical appointments so that they are aware of what the child’s needs are.

Teri has adopted or become a guardian for several of the kids in her care. She recently was trying to retire and found that it wasn’t the right time for her and her family.

Teri’s entire family helps to support the kiddos in their care. This summer that meant driving with several kiddos to Disneyland and taking them through the park, some for the first time. Later in the summer she took several of the older kids to a water park for a birthday celebration.

Teri’s house always feels full of love and laughter. She makes the choice to show up 100% every day! The world would be a better place if there were more Teris in it.

Nominator: Clare Kirkwood