We are honored to announce that Rachel Borella, Early Head Start home-based supervisor for Children’s Home Society of Washington, is the recipient of the Spirit of Wonderland Community Award. Rachel was recognized by Wonderland Developmental Center at their Night of Wonder Gala on Sept. 23 at the Lynnwood Convention Center.

Mary Kirchoff, Wonderland’s executive director, presented the award to Rachel for her spirit of generosity and commitment to Wonderland and its mission to empower children who are developmentally delayed and their families. The Spirit of Wonderland Community Award is given to partners and members of the general community who help families reach their highest potential where they live, learn, and play.

Participants trust and feel heard by Rachel because of her kind demeanor. She excels at ensuring families feel comfortable engaging in services and understanding the various systems of support. 

“Receiving the award was an incredible honor for me,” Rachel said. “My whole team works very closely with Wonderland’s therapists and special educators to provide holistic services to children and families in the community. Staff and the families we serve have benefitted greatly from our partnership with them. The award represents recognition and appreciation of the work done by all the North King Early Head Start home visitors.”

“We work with our families for years and spend hours in their homes, bearing witness to some of their most stressful moments, as well as some of their greatest accomplishments and celebrations,” Rachel said.

Rachel was nominated by Michelle Stiller Bradley, Wonderland’s program director, for this prestigious award. Rachel collaborates with Wonderland to maximize the impact of both programs and increase the potential for progress and growth for each family.

Wonderland’s staff feels Rachel is an asset for her deep understanding of each individual child’s development and knowledge of the various ways families can be supported. She goes above and beyond.

Jennifer Parsons is the marketing communications manager for Children's Home Society of Washington.