03.31.2016

Treehouse Champions Shine for Youth in Foster Care

By Emily Snitker, Treehouse Marketing Specialist

Supporters of Treehouse attending the 15th Annual Champions for Foster Kids Luncehon

On Wednesday, March 30, 2016, more than 1100 generous supporters came together in a powerful way to build a brighter future for youth in foster care during Treehouse’s 15th Annual Champions for Foster Kids Luncheon.

Guests arriving at the Champions for Foster Kids Luncehon at the Seattle Sheraton

Over 1100 guests joined Treehouse to support youth in foster care in a big way.

The event kicked off with CEO Janis Avery recognizing longtime volunteers the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 19, corporate partner Boeing, and community partner Emerald City Pizza, for their generosity and steadfast support for Treehouse youth.

Emerald City Pizza (also known as Pizza Hut) were honored with the Community Partner Award

Treehouse honors Boeing with the Corporate Partner Award

We were honored to welcome Senator Reuven Carlyle and Governor Jay Inslee to the stage next for a truly memorable moment. Surrounded by youth in foster care, caregivers, legislators, and Treehouse staff, Governor Inslee signed HB 1999 into law. This critical legislation will help bring Washington State one step closer to becoming #1 in the nation for educational outcomes for youth in foster care! ‪

Governor Inslee signs HB 1999 into law on stage at Treehouse's Luncehon

Following the momentous bill signing, Treehouse CEO Janis Avery and Associate Director of Education Programs, Angela Griffin, shared exciting results from Treehouse’s Graduation Success Program and how it’s making an impact on high school graduation rates in our state.

We are so thankful for our three brave students, Robert, AZ, and Jocelyn, for sharing their moving stories of resilience and strength with us.

Karla-and-Octavio

And ten-year-old Octavio accompanied by his adoptive mother Karla Petersen closed the event with a persuasive speech he wrote for school about how Treehouse has supported him and why everyone should support youth in foster care.

Event co-chairs Nick Brown, Jennifer Moran, and Sean Torcasi

We are so thankful for this year’s event co-chairs Nick Brown, Jennifer Moran, and Sean Torcasi who teamed together with Treehouse’s very own Shaunessy Jones to host a memorable and inspirational afternoon.

Treehouse Luncheon guests gathered to support youth in foster care

Thank you to all the Treehouse champions for investing in the futures of our community’s youth in foster care!

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About the Author

Emily Snitker is the Marketing and Communications Specialist for Treehouse. She is thankful for the opportunity to share the stories of Treehouse students, families, and supporters with the community.