Julie Lyche was born and raised in Eugene and has lived in Central Oregon for more than 30 years. She has served as the executive director of the Family Access Network for over 19 years.
In addition to her work, Julie has volunteered in the local schools and on the basketball court, coaching her children through Bend Parks and Recreation. Julie and her husband, Jay, are proud University of Oregon graduates and have two sons, one currently attending the U of O (Go Ducks!) and one adulting in Portland.
What did you learn from your parents about parenting? My parents were ahead of their time when it came to recycling and reusing everything. No one needs new clothes when we have moderately decent hand-me-downs! What I learned most from this is that “things” aren’t important.
What do you hope your children have learned from you? As my kids have gotten older, I’ve realized that just simply being around the house, available when or if they need me, has allowed natural moments for deeper conversations. What I hope my children have learned is that being fully present as a parent matters, even if they don’t always act like they want you around—pretty much from ages 12 – 18.
What superhero power do you wish you had as a parent? Does Marvel have a multitasking superhero? That would be amazing! Some days I wonder how parents survive, with all the responsibilities, to-dos and “urgent” matters that arise. It’d be great to throw on a cape and get it all done simultaneously!
How are kids today different than when you were a kid? When I was a kid, summer mornings meant heading out with our swimsuits, towels and a couple of dollars, often disappearing for eight or more hours. My parents had no idea where we went. Today, it’s incredibly difficult for our kids to go anywhere without us knowing exactly where they are at any given moment.
Do you have a role model? My mother is my greatest role model. At 91, she remains a self-reflective lifelong learner. She has a passion for travel and is celebrated for her warmth and generosity, both in her spirit and in her home.
How is running a non-profit like being a parent? It’s a bit like herding cats. Each non-profit has a diverse range of personalities, including board members, staff, volunteers and donors, who don’t always see eye to eye. Aligning everyone to support the organization’s mission is a little like getting the whole family, including the dog, in the car for a week-long camping trip—not impossible, but it requires a good amount of planning and effort!
What do you think the next generation has in store for us? I’m thrilled by how the next generation has encouraged us to move away from the need to label everyone. My kids and their peers are amazing at not stressing over categorizing people. They’ve asked me, “Does it really matter?” and the answer is “no.”
What’s one seemingly small thing that has had an unexpectedly big impact on the way you parent? Recognizing that saying “I’m sorry” to my kids isn’t a sign of weakness; rather it serves as a valuable example for them as they grow. Luckily with two spirited boys, I have had countless opportunities to model this behavior.
The Family Access Network offers assistance, possibility and hope to Central Oregon families in need by connecting them with crucial resources. Find out more: familyaccessnetwork.org
This article appears in BendNest Winter 2024.
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