Consider volunteering to help families

Published 4:18 pm Wednesday, November 26, 2008

The holiday season is upon us! Many of us shall enjoy a grand turkey meal with family or friends, or both, while we also express our gratitude for our blessings.

As a social worker, I meet with a number of families who are less fortunate, struggling economically to meet the needs of their children and selves. A blessing that I witness many of these families being grateful for is that they have each other.

Our community steps forward to meet the needs of our families by providing help, from turkey meals for Thanksgiving to gifts for Christmas. Our families are grateful for the care and generosity extended by their community.

As we near the New Year with all its promises of change and hope, readers may be seeking a local way to make a difference, right here in our Snohomish County.

The unit that I work in is the “Parent Enrichment Program.” We serve children and families throughout Snohomish County who are experiencing significant challenges.

As we are amidst our family and friends this holiday season, mindful of our own blessings and taking stock of possible resolutions for the New Year, readers may consider becoming a volunteer for the “Parent Enrichment Program.” Opportunities range from being a weekly tutor to a child — right now there are children who need academic support; teens need mentors — be a positive role model; supporting a parent — single parents who can use a helping hand; or helping to make a birthday special for a child by being a birthday “Santa.”

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer or donor may contact me at 425-583-7037 or fosj300@dshs.wa.gov.

Thank You!

Jeannine Fosca