We asked some fantastic parents from in and around the city to tell us about the most important thing they have done as parents.

Katie Flores / Margie Flores | Prolific Painter / Parent

When Katie “aged out” of the school district at 22 years old, her employment options and self-advocacy skills as an autistic young woman were limited. I knew I needed to be her voice and advocate. Inspired by the book “Radical Inclusion,” I set out to provide a life for Katie that fed her passions and interests. I found it difficult to accept that just because Katie had autism, she couldn’t thrive in her chosen vocation. Instead, I wanted her to be immersed in a community of mentors and opportunities that fed her skills and brought her joy and purpose. Out of this desire for a meaningful life, Inclusion Art by Katie was created. Read more>>

Rachael Orose | Mom & Nonprofit Executive

I know it may be cliche as it’s what I do for my “day job” but I am quite sure the most important thing I’ve done as a parent is instill a love of reading and stories in our 3-year old daughter. Not only does she love to read, but she fulfills her need for connection to others through the power of books. I’ve watched as she chooses books and expertly wiggles into the laps of unsuspecting, caring adults and ‘big kids’ ready to read. During the pandemic, she’s created missing connections with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins by asking them to read stories together on video chat. I know that she has this innate love that will help her love her life to the fullest as she grows. Read more>>

Lenny “Naboy” Mathé | Artist

I would say, to make a living from my passion and stop compromising. We spend too much time working in our lives to do something we don’t really love. I have done many different jobs and i have never been as happy as I am now. Since I choose to dedicate myself to art my life totally changed. My son is 11 years old and maybe doesn’t fully realize it but I think that seeing your parents happy and doing a work they love is one of the most important thing in your everyday life. Read more>>