Jake's Story
Raising leaders in unlikely places
There’s no mistaking the passion in 17-year-old Jake Welch. Reaching into a depth of character uncommon among his peers, it extends to faith and family, care for his two brothers with disabilities.
So, who is your United Way gift helping? Jake, his brothers and the many others Jake is reaching through his volunteer leadership for The Arc of Snohomish County— because Jake has learned that when you reach out a hand to one, you truly can influence the condition of all.
Growing up with his mother and two younger brothers while his military father accepted posts throughout the world, Jake helped take on the responsibilities of child and home care in his father’s frequent absence. As the only child without disabilities – one brother has Tourette’s Syndrome, the other Williams Syndrome – he has made countless sacrifices that his mother, Tracy, recognizes have fashioned his robust moral fiber.
“He has grown up so much faster than others his age, with strong morals, compassion and maturity,” she said. “He really understands struggle and has developed a unique perspective for relating to others.”
This is evident at the Arc’s annual Sibling Support events, where Jake is a popular youth volunteer, known for his fun-loving leadership and his insightful empathy. Sibshops are invaluable for esteem building, giving kids who have siblings with disabilities the opportunity for undivided time and attention, complete with activities and conversation focused on them.
“These kids often feel overlooked as parents understandably attend to their sibling’s special needs,” he explained. “Sibshops help them get away for a day that we plan around what the kids want to do. Whether that means swimming, water gun fights or talking through their unique issues.”
United Way invests strategically to go beyond meeting just today’s needs—critical as they are—to making a difference that can last a lifetime. Through the Sibling Support program, your contribution is turning youth like Jake into leaders, volunteers and advocates for the disabled—even if it looks like a water fight.
Read more success stories.