Shelby Knudson Bell, a Port Angeles native, was recently selected to receive a Parent Recognition Award as part of the Children’s Trust of Washington Unsung Hero Award.

In celebration of February as National Parent Leadership Month, this award honors and showcases 28 parents or caregivers from across the state.

Knudson Bell and her husband, Nick, are the parents of four boys: Zaine, 12, Nicholas, 10, and twins, Deacon and Cameron, 7.

Three of her sons are challenged with significant special needs, and one challenged with developmental delays.

According to the winning submission co-written by Priya Jayadev, executive director of Clallam Mosaic, and William Gullick, pastor of Hillcrest Baptist Church, Kundson Bell “faces this challenge with joy and resolution. She stays engaged in her kids’ education, as a volunteer and advocate.”

Knudson Bell is commended for having her sons enjoy both mainstream sports when possible, and Special Olympics. The boys are engaged with 4-H, and enjoy presenting their sheep at the Clallam County Fair.

The submission also recognizes how Knudson Bell not only works for the benefit of her own sons, but also to aid other children who are challenged with similar health, intellectual and emotional challenges.

Volunteering in the classroom, with Clallam Night to Shine prom and with the Special Olympic Orcas, Knudson Bell is commended for striving to bring the best possible life experiences to individuals with special needs.

Initially unaware of her nomination, when Knudson Bell learned of her honor, she was “very humbled and surprised.”

Begun in 2011 in partnership with Strengthening Families Washington, the Department of Children, Youth and Families, the award celebrates the men and women across the state who work to strengthen their families, their local schools and their communities. Winners are recognized for the hard work of parenting, and acknowledged for stepping up and becoming a role model not only in the home but also in the community.

The award ceremony was held Feb. 25 at the Capital Event Center in Tumwater.