Update from 8/30/21: Our Emergency Sanctuary program, both in Pierce and King Counties, remains paused. After taking a hiatus from programming in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, aimed at ensuring the health and wellbeing of our community through mitigating the spread of COVID-19, we’re taking time to re-envision our Emergency Sanctuary program. Our goal during this pause
Tag: Amara Emergency Sanctuary
Nothing More Magical: A Volunteer Story
Recently, one of our Emergency Sanctuary volunteers had an experience that really stuck with him. He shared this story with us, and it serves as a reminder that there are so many little moments that make a world of difference to the children staying there, as well as the volunteers who help make the program
Glitter, Tiaras & Gender
A popular book from this donation has been My Princess Boy, by local author Cheryl Kilodavis, about a boy who loves to wear pink, glitter and tiaras. Recently, one of our Sanctuary guests eagerly listened to this story over and over, sharing how often he had dressed up like a princess too.
The First Few Days
When children are removed from their homes and placed in foster care, it is traumatic and uncertain. In our newest video, we explore what one child’s experience could be like during those first few days and how Amara seeks to offer support, nurturing, and care to children when they first enter foster care.
Sanctuary Stories: I’m here when you feel safe…
“Our volunteer patiently gave her some space, telling her jokes from a few feet away to make her smile and letting her know she was ready to play when the girl was feeling safe…”
End of the Year Philanthropic Giving
Are you planning to donate to your favorite organizations before the New Year? We’ve got some ideas about supporting Amara and other non-profits this time of year! Join us as we discuss End of Year Giving with Amara’s Ross Hiranaga, Director of Children’s Services, and Carrie Bassett, Development Manager. Spoiler Alert: We start with some
Sanctuary Stories: How Hair Care Products Help Kids Feel at Home
by Sarah Wheeler – Emergency Sanctuary Program Manger, Pierce County When kids are removed from their home for their own safety, everything familiar and comfortable is suddenly gone. When they come to stay with us at the Emergency Sanctuary everything there is new and unfamiliar. So we strive to learn as quickly as possible what would
Sanctuary Stories: Emily’s Story
“To my surprise, her crying began to stop as I began singing and playing the guitar…” Listen to this beautiful story of comfort through music for a small child at our Emergency Sanctuary, told by our Therapeutic Childcare Specialist, Emily Stochel.
Nurturing Trust: My Amara Volunteer Story
April is Volunteer Appreciation Month! Join us as we celebrate our amazing Amara volunteers who ensure children entering foster care are cared for – physically and emotionally – in our Emergency Sanctuaries. by Susie Ulrickson I worked for many years as a pediatric nurse where I learned how strong and adaptable kids are – even when faced