Editor’s Note: Mothers & More is a sponsor of chambanamoms.com. Learn more about this great mom’s group and plan to attend its open house event on Sunday, Nov. 2.
Moms Night Out for dessert and drinks; dressed up for Courage Connection’s Grease Sing-a-Long fundraiser at The Virginia Theater; donations for our diaper drive for the G.O.A.L.S Project, a local charity that supports teen moms; a going-away party for a member
Mothers & More focuses on you as a mother, woman, and individual. We provide you with opportunities to connect with mothers in your neighborhood and across the nation, face-to-face and individually, to share, learn, grow, and have fun! Mothers & More is for moms of all ages, with children of all ages. The Champaign County chapter offers a number of supportive programs as well as fun events—from the Moms Helping Moms meal program to the always-necessary Moms Nights Out. Mothers & More charges annual dues that offset costs of local chapter events as well as the organization’s operating costs. It also offers a Membership Scholarship Program. To join, go to http://mothersandmore.org/our-chapters/join-us/ or contact us via Facebook.
Mothers & More – Champaign County is hosting its annual Open House on Sunday, November 2, 6:30 p.m. at Jupiter’s at the Crossing in Champaign. This is a great opportunity to check us out and see if this group is a good fit for you! There will be food, games, and an amazing selection of door prizes from local businesses. Visit our website or Facebook page for more information and to RSVP to the event.
Q: Why do you think moms need groups?
Meghan writes: Moms need groups in order to connect with other moms, share experiences, and build friendships. Being a mom can be an isolating experience, especially when you are a new mom and might not know many other moms. Also, parenting takes a ton of time and energy, leaving little time to go out and make friends. It is wonderful to have structured activities and a group where you can go meet people, connect, and make friends.
Q: Why did you join Mothers & More?
Women have joined our chapter for a variety of reasons. Many have been either new to the area or new to motherhood. Our members stay members for so much more—support, friendship, and a sense of belonging.
Colleen writes: I joined M&M when I was expecting my second child and left the paid workforce. I was very nervous about the transition and what life would be like with minimal connection to the adult world. A friend suggested the local Mothers & More chapter and encouraged me to join before the birth of my child. After my son was born, mothers delivered home-cooked meals for my family. People often ask me how I handle the challenges of having three small children, a husband who travels several times a month, and no extended family nearby. I always credit the support of this group. When you’re stuck with a sick child or difficult situation, these women are there to help. It’s a great community, and I’m thankful to be part of it!
Q: What type of commitment is involved?
What’s great about Mothers & More is that a mom can be as involved as she’d like (or as she has the time and energy for, as the case often is). We have an active email listserv as well as a Facebook page where moms post questions and answers about everything from electrician recommendations to potty training tips. We have weekly coffee get-togethers, regular playgroups, monthly Moms Nights Out and Book Club meetings, and an annual family picnic. Another great way to be involved is our Moms Helping Moms program, where our members volunteer to deliver meals to another mom in a time of need (most often with the arrival of a child).
Q: What is a typical Mothers & More event like?
We are definitely a casual bunch that enjoys getting together and having fun! And no matter how many times we plan an event around a specific topic (e.g., for Book Club or an informational meeting), inevitably the discussion turns to the triumphs and trials of motherhood.
Maria writes: One of the biggest reasons I am so appreciative of being a part of Mothers & More is that it introduces me to women I may not have had the opportunity to know and befriend otherwise. We live in a community of people from all over the world, but the thing that we all share in this group is that we are moms. It’s a strong bond that I truly value.
Q: Why do you stay involved with Mothers & More?
Kelly writes: I stay involved for the great friends I have already made and will make. Every new member that joins the group is an opportunity for another friendship. I didn’t know anyone when I moved to town, so I joined Mothers & More to meet other moms. I want to be able to provide that for others who are new to the area or new to motherhood.
Q: What is your favorite M & M story?
Karrah writes: Three times since moving here, we’ve had sudden family medical emergencies where I had to be away from home. All three times I have told my husband, “Put what’s happening on my Facebook. Someone from Mothers & More will contact you to help.” My family, my children are my world; I rarely leave them without reservation. But I knew one or several M&M moms would offer help and everything would be okay.