03/06/2026
Volunteer Week always makes me reflect on why this community means so much to me.
Nearly nine years ago, I founded this group with a simple hope: that no mom or family would have to face their mental health battles or feelings of loneliness and isolation alone the way I once did.
As an early years professional, I understand how important those early years are for both parent and child. As a mom, I also know how vital it is that support continues throughout the motherhood journey. This is something I first dreamed of creating back in 2013, but at the time, it simply wasn't the right moment.
A few years later, after having my third baby, I found myself sitting on his bedroom floor, crying as I held him, feeling completely helpless and alone. In that moment, I found myself imagining a group just like the one we have today.
I still facilitate everything as a volunteer. Not because it's easy, but because this community is my passion. It gives me purpose, and in many ways, it keeps me going too.
Our groups are peer-led. I know what it feels like to walk into a group with your heart racing, wondering whether you will fit in, wondering if people will judge you or your child. I know the fear of being labelled a "bad parent" when raising a neurodivergent child. I know what it's like to feel lonely even when you're surrounded by people. I know the exhaustion of masking social anxiety all day, only to return home with racing thoughts.
These are just a few of my lived experiences, and they're why creating a supportive, inclusive space matters so deeply to me.
A space where moms and families don't have to pretend.
A space where people feel understood.
A space where nobody is made to feel "too much" or "not enough."
We don't have hierarchy here. Our groups are collaborative, rooted in strong values, and shaped by the voices, experiences, and needs of the moms in our community.
But we're still a small community group.
Some days are challenging, especially while navigating chronic illness and a child with additional needs, but the connection, support, and honesty within this community continue to inspire me.
As we look towards our 10th anniversary next year, we're hoping to grow our committee and build a gentle, supportive team behind the scenes—people who believe in what we're doing and want to help us continue creating safe, welcoming spaces for families.
We would also love to welcome more people to help facilitate groups alongside me.
If any part of my story resonates with you, and you feel called to support this community, I would be grateful to hear from you.
Next year marks 10 years of supporting moms and families, and perhaps you could be part of helping us get there.