ShareA Celebration of Strength, Healing, and Family
On Saturday, June 21, 2025, families, advocates, and community partners gathered under cloudy skies at Franklin Park Gazebo in Spokane to celebrate Reunification Day. Sponsored by the Spokane Parent Advocacy Network (SPAN) and Washington State Courts, the event honored the powerful journey of families who have overcome significant challenges to reunite and rebuild their lives together.
Reunification Day is more than a picnic—though the lunches, drinks, door prizes, and outdoor games certainly brought smiles to every corner of the park. At its heart, the day is about recognizing the strength, growth, and resilience of parents who have worked tirelessly to create safe, loving environments for their children. It also serves as a moment to express gratitude to the foster parents, social workers, legal advocates, and community members who walk alongside families on their path to reunification.
“It gives us a chance to let parents know their hard work has been recognized and appreciated,” said Gabe Cisneros-Lassey, Parents 4 Parents (P4P) Program Coordinator at Forge, and event organizer. Gabe’s thoughtful planning helped create a space where families could not only celebrate but also feel genuinely seen and valued. “Being part of the happiness and joy of parents as they received their prizes, and seeing the kids, and feeling the sense of community—that was my favorite part,” he added.
For Kate Gibson, a Parent Ally who assisted with setup and supported families throughout the day, the event held deeply personal meaning. “Reunification Day to me is like Independence Day to America—it is a really fulfilling moment,” she said. “Seeing the kids have a blast—the face painting, all of the games and prizes—the kids felt like the day was about them.”
And in many ways, it was. Reunification Day gives children a chance to see their families celebrated—not for what they’ve been through, but for what they’ve overcome. It’s a joyful, affirming reminder that healing is possible, and that every family deserves support, compassion, and a second chance.
As families laughed, played, and shared stories at Franklin Park, one thing was clear: reunification is worth celebrating—and so are the people who make it happen.
By Quinton Baker