September 14, 2015

A legacy of service—

Please see the attached photo.  On September 3^rd, we recognized Sue and Ivan Parada with the John Basillico Award in honor of their 40 years of dedicated, loving care to nearly 200 children in that span.  As you may know, Ivan passed away in 2014, but his presence was clearly felt, most especially in the fond memories and colorful stories shared by Sue and her three sons who were present for the award presentation.  Also present were John Basillico and his wife Barbara Jean, as well as collection of foster parents (some with babies in tow) and both current and former staffers who came to join in the celebration.  It was a humbling event to be in the room with so many people who have been and/or continue to be part of Good Shepherd’s foster care ministry—and to think about how many lives have been changed because of their loving service.  What a blessing it was to be in their company!