NAMC took on the Sloan Award for Business Excellence in Workplace Flexibility and did a remarkable job encouraging local businesses to apply. Their annual work and family conference is the only one of its kind on Long Island and is a special opportunity to learn about best practice and policy issues.
With regard to the basic work of creating mothers' centers across LI and the nation, the model is wonderful - empowering, respectful and effective. When trying to use the model in a low-income area, it was clear the model needed to be adapted. The staff was very willing and immediately saw a way to involve parents in a different way and meet their needs while staying true to their principles.
The Mothers’ Center is a wonderful resource for caregivers seeking support with the day-to-day issues to the more complex concerns of raising children or assisting loved ones. The community of women associated with the Mothers’ Center is an excellent go-to source because of their dedication, expertise and loyalty to provide mutual support, public advocacy and value to the maternal experience. I would also like to commend the Mothers' Center for the excellent work they have done with corporations in work/life balance. Every community should have a Mothers’ Center!
~Ellen Cooperperson~
As a new mom in a new community with my nearest family 250 miles away I can truly say the Mothers' Center changed my life. Participating in peer discussion groups gave structure and much needed social interaction to my life with my 6 month old daughter. I met women from all walks of life who I listed to, learned from and in some cases formed bonds with that have lasted 17 years. (My then six month old is now 17!) I took advantage of the opportunity to get involved at my center - since it is entirely run by the members. By doing that I was able to put some of my professional skills to good use and keep them current.
A very supportive environment for ALL mothers. A place to be listened to, a place to share, a place to feel validated, a place to learn and grow and become a better mother. I have been at my center for 18 years raising 5 kids. It has helped me through births, deaths, moves and stresses. I have met my very best friends at our center and love giving back to help other mothers gain what i have gained. We love to do community service from our center helping the less fortunate by donating clothes, money and food. We have lots of family events, parenting workshops, moms night out and just a positive, friendly, energetic atmosphere. We truly are moms helping moms.
The National Association of Mothers Center is a great resource both locally and nationally to all moms. I have volunteered both on a Local and National level and absolutely LOVE the unbiased and all encompassing support the organization provides to mothers at all stages of parenthood. I have used my local organization as a support group (as a new mom), as a education resource (through our chapter's weekly meetings and the national organization's webinars), and as a confidence builder and career step as a mother. (Yes! Being a mother is a career and should count on your resume!)
I found out about the Center through my mother-in-law, who was a member in the original Hicksville, NY location around 1980. She brought her two children (my husband and sister-in-law) and facilitated groups. I am now bringing my son (who's 22 mos.) to classes as well as helping with the childcare.
So I wanted to thank everyone who makes the Mothers Centers possible because it has been a lifesaver for me!
Review from Guidestar
As a new mom, I was so grateful to find and participate in my local mothers' center starting when my first daughter was a newborn. I met friends, learned a whole lot about motherhood by watching other moms in action and was able to share my experiences and frustrations in a supportive environment. Now a mom of two, I still participate in mothers' center discussions weekly.