Parenting: A lot to celebrate

Think of all the little — and big — things that go into parenting every day. That’s what National Parents’ Day, an official U.S. holiday observed on the fourth Sunday of July, was created to celebrate.

Mothers and fathers take care of children’s basic needs for food, clothing and shelter. But that’s just the beginning; they make children feel loved and safe, nurturing their talents and interests and instilling in them confidence to grow, blossom and flower into all they were made to be. What that all looks like on day-to-day basis differs from parent-to-parent and as a child grows from infant to toddler to preschooler, from the first day of kindergarten through high school graduation. Parents share joys, from the first pooh in the potty to the first prom. Whether tears are over a baby’s broken a toy or a teen’s broken heart, parents comfort in their own style, even through they can’t fix everything.

No one is perfect, and parenting has its challenges. Homelessness can compound the challenges.

So Family Renew Community is compounding National Parents’ Day, “recognizing, uplifting and supporting the role of parents in the rearing of children” — as the federal law calls for — all month long.

Our stay-at-home celebration hits its stride on July 21, with a drawing live on Facebook for a $500 grand prize and other great prizes. Proceeds will help parents who are working hard to lift their families out of homelessness. Tickets are available online for a donation of $25 each.