Valerie & Chris Carlton a blessing to kids (and staff) in foster care system

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.

Valerie & Chris Carlton, Bothell

I am nominating Valerie and Chris because of their ongoing commitment for child welfare.

I first began working with this couple as a suitable other on a CFWS case where they cared for a child. Through that experience they observed the need for foster homes in our community and got licensed.

I later worked with this couple as a placement for a child awaiting a trial return home that had difficult behaviors. Valerie worked diligently with the child and his behaviors to help create a structured environment. Both foster parents openly worked with and engaged with the biological parents of this child. This allowed for a smooth transition to a trial return home while also bridging that gap between the foster parents and the biological parents.

Valerie and Chris have always been willing to work with the biological parents and to help make them feel comfortable that their child is in their care. On multiple occasions the family has shown up to meet CPS workers for a transition of an emergency pickup. There have been several occasions in late afternoons were Valerie and Chris drop everything to meet workers where they are to help ease the transition.

Not only do they have the commitment to the children in our system and their safety but their ongoing bonds with biological family. This couple also brings great appreciation for the child welfare staff as they understand how busy the schedule is and drop everything to make it easier for the workers.

Nominator: Calista Currie