Washington Seeks Foster Youth for Mariners First Pitch

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The Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) is seeking nominations for a foster youth to throw the first pitch at a Seattle Mariners game on May 3 as part of the department's annual 'We Are Family Day' event. Eligible nominees must be in foster care in Washington state within the past 12 months, at least 10 years old, and comfortable standing in front of a large crowd to throw a baseball to their caregiver.

Why it matters

The 'We Are Family Day' event aims to celebrate and support foster youth in Washington, providing them with a special opportunity to participate in a high-profile community event alongside their caregivers. This helps raise awareness of foster care and the needs of youth in the system.

The details

DCYF is accepting nominations for the first pitch honor via email to holly.luna@dcyf.wa.gov by February 27. The selected youth and their caregiver will be invited to attend the Mariners game on May 3 where the youth will throw the ceremonial first pitch. Tickets to the game are available for those who would like to attend the event.

• Nominations are due by Friday, February 27, 2026.
• The 'We Are Family Day' first pitch event will take place on May 3, 2026.

What’s next

The DCYF will review all nominations and select the foster youth who will throw the first pitch at the Mariners game on May 3.