Through the years, Cindy Parker has impacted many people’s lives, and not just those of her own family members. Charlotte Atkison, 3, James Atksion, Katie Parker, Christopher Parker, Cindy Parker, Grace Schantz, William Schantz, Judah Schantz, 9 months, and Andrew Parker pose for a portrait at Father Marinaro Park on Friday in Butler. Joseph Ressler/Butler Eagle

Cindy Parker became a mom at 18, and the nurturing, supportive encouragement she used in raising her six children now extends to her five grandchildren.

But Parker’s motherly ways don’t stop there.

“Me and half the kids in Butler, we agree she is a very special mother,“ said Parker’s youngest child, Grace Schantz, 16. “She has been a mother figure to half of Butler City.”

Parker explained that while she has had two official foster children, numerous teens have found refuge at her place for however long they needed to be there.

“I’ve had a lot of kids who were struggling at home or were between homes who have stayed with us for periods of time,” she said. “I’ve always had the philosophy that if they’re at my house, they’re safe.”

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