This week we lose two relatively unknown valuable community resources, Annie and Mark Mulligan. Both were previously employed at the Everett Herald as photographers. Although my first contact with Mark was related to an actual court proceeding; my real work with him and Annie began almost five years ago with Reclaiming Futures. Previously, I was the judge primarily handling Juvenile Offender Drug Treatment Court and the primary Judicial Fellow for Reclaiming Futures.
Reclaiming Futures works to improve treatment results and to reduce recidivism in youth with substance abuse issues. When RF came to our county, Herald reporter Diana Hefley wrote a story to introduce it to our community. She wanted to have some photographs taken of our youth; Annie and Mark were assigned this task. They immediately became attached to our children and wanted to assist with RF. They volunteered to teach a photography class to our youth. Over the years they have gone on to teach photography many times and it is a favorite program of our youth. They not only taught the classes, they became Youth Partners (mentors) for several of the youth. They have made the children feel like part of their own family.
When the Mulligans began working with RF, they did not have children of their own, and now they have two boys who also have been involved with the youth.
Mark and Annie, you have made a difference in our community for our youth and your work will be missed tremendously. Thank you and your family for all the hours you have devoted to teaching and in taking the time and interest to develop and foster your personal relationships with our kids. You truly have made a difference in the lives of many. Good luck as you return to Texas, your original home, but always know you have a home in Washington as well. Please keep in contact with all of us.
For any of you interested in becoming involved in RF please feel free to contact me at 425-388-7335.
Judge Bruce I. Weiss
Snohomish County Superior Court
Everett
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