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.
Zandria Veneable, Bothell
We have had the privilege of working with Zandria and two of the children (her niece and nephew) she has been raising throughout this pandemic.
When both children were headed into foster care a bit over two years ago, Zandria welcomed them into her already busy and full home with open arms. As the children have grown and the pandemic set in, Zandria has continued to rise up to meet numerous new challenges with grace and humility. She has advocated for more therapeutic, developmental and financial support when she noticed a need for herself and the kids. She has continually supported healthy relationships with the kids’ mom, her sister, in the midst of challenging family dynamics and strong feelings and behaviors from the kids.
Most recently, Zandria welcomed additional family members into her home when they needed a stable and nurturing place to live. Zandria has navigated all of this while raising her own children (one with special needs) as a single parent, graduating from an Early Childhood school program, working full time and most recently also caring for her mother after a medical and family emergency. In the face of many challenging things, Zandria has worked hard to remain emotionally present for the children in her care, her family, and herself. These children are lucky to have her and we are lucky to have her in our community.
Nominators: Sarah Branson and Dianna Zaorski
More Unsung Heroes:
‘Super mom’ advocates for kids with developmental differences
Ryan Eldred keeps his kids safe and loved, even in tough times
