Sean Gentile, a Certified Florida Supreme Court Family Mediator, entrepreneur, and advocate for families, is based in Oakland Park, FL. As the owner of Non Attorney Divorce and a mother of four, Sean has spent over two decades helping parents navigate complex family situations with compassion, wisdom, and practical solutions. Her latest initiative, the Parent of the Year Contest, highlights exceptional parents in South Florida and celebrates the love, dedication, and resilience they bring to raising their children. In this exclusive Q&A, Sean shares her unique insights into the contest, her inspiration, and what it means to truly honor outstanding parents.
Why did you create the Parent of the Year Contest, and how does it reflect your personal and professional journey?
The idea for the Parent of the Year Contest came from both my personal experiences as a mother and my professional work as a family mediator. Over the years, I’ve witnessed the extraordinary resilience parents display—whether they’re navigating difficult divorces, finding ways to prioritize their children’s emotional well-being, or striving to create stability in the face of adversity.
As a mother of four, I know firsthand how challenging and rewarding parenting can be. You don’t always get a “thank you,” but you keep showing up for your kids, helping them grow into strong, confident individuals. This contest is my way of saying, “We see you. You are doing something remarkable.” Professionally, I’ve dedicated my life to empowering families through Non Attorney Divorce, and this initiative allows me to celebrate the heart of every family—parents who show up and give their best every day.
What qualities are you looking for in the Parent of the Year submissions?
The heart of the Parent of the Year Contest is authenticity. I want to hear real, raw, and inspiring stories about parenting. We’re not looking for perfection—we’re looking for intention. The parents who stand out will be those who show resilience, creativity, and love in their approach to raising their children. Whether it’s teaching safety at home, resolving conflicts with grace, or encouraging their children to pursue their passions, I want to know how parents create environments where their children feel safe, valued, and empowered.
Additionally, I love hearing about struggles parents have faced and overcome. Those moments are where resilience and determination shine brightest. Did you find a way to prioritize education when resources were limited? Did you teach financial literacy in a creative way? Did you foster communication in a household that was struggling? Those stories matter.
Why do you believe it’s important to highlight financial literacy as part of parenting success?
Financial literacy is one of those life skills that can set a child up for success, yet it’s often overlooked. As a mediator, I’ve seen many families struggle because parents were never taught to manage money themselves. Breaking that cycle starts at home.
In my house, I’ve always encouraged my children to think about money in terms of responsibility and opportunity—how to save for goals, invest in the future, and understand the value of hard work. It’s not just about teaching numbers; it’s about teaching confidence and accountability. Through this contest, I hope parents share creative ways they’ve taught their kids about budgeting, saving, or even entrepreneurship.
I want families to see that financial conversations don’t have to be intimidating; they can be empowering. Kids deserve to understand how money works and how they can use it to create stability and independence in their lives.
How does the Parent of the Year Contest honor diversity in parenting styles and family structures?
One of the beautiful things about parenting is that there is no single “right way” to do it. Families come in all shapes, sizes, and structures, and each brings its own unique strengths. I wanted this contest to reflect that. Whether you’re a single parent, a co-parent, a blended family, or a traditional household, your parenting story matters.
We’re celebrating parents who prioritize love, growth, and safety in their homes—regardless of what that home looks like. I think highlighting diverse parenting styles will inspire others to embrace their own journeys. By sharing strategies, lessons, and creative solutions, families can learn from one another in ways that enrich us all.
What excites you most about the upcoming Parent of the Year celebration event at Capital Grille in Fort Lauderdale?
I’m thrilled about the opportunity to bring parents together for a night of recognition and inspiration. Parenting can sometimes feel isolating; we don’t always get the chance to share our stories or hear from others who’ve walked similar paths. This event will be an evening of community and celebration—a chance to honor the sacrifices and victories of parents who give so much of themselves.
Capital Grille in Fort Lauderdale is the perfect backdrop for this special event. Held by invitation in June 2025, it will be a night to applaud the amazing parents in our community, enjoy great company, and celebrate their stories of love, perseverance, and family.
How can parents submit their entries, and what advice would you give to those thinking about applying?
Parents can enter the contest through our website, www.nonattorneydivorce.com. All submissions must include a completed parenting skills questionnaire and a photo. The deadline for entries is April 5, 2025.
My advice to parents: Be honest and share your story with heart. You don’t need to have all the answers, and you don’t need to be perfect. What makes your parenting journey unique? What lessons have you taught your children? How have you overcome challenges? Share those moments, because they matter—and they might just inspire someone else.
Final Thoughts on the Parent of the Year Contest
This contest is about celebrating the everyday heroes of parenting—the moms, dads, and guardians who dedicate their time, energy, and love to their families. I can’t wait to hear your stories, honor your efforts, and celebrate your journey at the Parent of the Year event in June. Together, let’s remind each other of the power of family, resilience, and community.
For more details and to submit your entry, visit www.nonattorneydivorce.com.
About The Author
