Founders story
Countless heartfelt moments where Shantel saw youth and families craving safety and connection, and she knew it was time to create a community where everyone truly belongs.
For over 17 years, my husband, Paul, and I have dedicated our lives to fostering safety, connection, and care for youth and their families in King County. Our journey began with a deep understanding of the systemic challenges facing urban communities—challenges like poverty, oppression, and the devastating impact of gun violence. We felt a calling to step in, not just as professionals, but as neighbors, parents, and invested community members. It's a privilege to co-create a web of care and support around those who need it most, helping them navigate crucial transitions into adulthood.
At Urban Family, we believe that true healing and growth can only begin when people feel safe. This conviction is at the heart of everything we do, from our youth mentorship programs that nurture potential to our family support services that strengthen bonds, and our neighborhood safety teams that build trust. Our collaborative approach, as part of initiatives like the Seattle Community Safety Initiative, is designed to bring about lasting change by addressing the root causes of violence and offering pathways to a brighter future for our youth and their families.
I believe our work offers a lifeline, transforming pain into purpose by wrapping our youth and families in a supportive embrace that whispers, 'You are safe, you are seen, and you belong.'
Looking ahead, my hope for Urban Family is to continue expanding our reach and deepening our impact. We strive to be a beacon of hope, ensuring that every child, every family, and every individual in our community feels seen, heard, and valued, therefore feeling safe, connected and cared for…the needed ingredients of belonging. We envision a future where our stories—stories of overcoming adversity, of finding belonging, and of thriving against all odds—are not just glimpses of greatness, but continuous chapters leading to happy endings for generations to come. Your support allows us to keep our doors open, our programs thriving, and our community healing and growing, making a lasting difference in countless lives.
Sincerely,
Shantel M. Patu
Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder
