By Cheryl Conway
Transitioning from the professional world into the mommy world can sometimes be daunting and lonely, especially for new moms.
But it does not have to be that way. Playgroups and clubs are the best remedy for moms looking to connect with other moms so they no longer have to walk their carriage alone. The Mount Olive Moms Club is one group that has organized itself into a well-established group.
Founded seven years ago, the club took a pause after COVID hit but is now back in action.
“We wanted to start with moms since we saw a need for community and support,” says Kimberly Lopez of Budd Lake. “We have a lot of stay-at-home moms with little kids that need a little support to get through the hard days!
“The group is made up of all types of moms (working, stay at home, moms with older kids, grandmas) we welcome everyone!” she adds
A resident of Mt. Olive for five years, Lopez serves as the club’s president.
This past June, a few of the club’s leaders established a board to stay organized. The other four board members include Jessica Cascalheira, vice president; Leanne Borenius, treasurer; Lynnae Failla, membership; and Lucie Cordova, secretary.
“We have all been involved for the past four years and are now the new board members since June,” says Lopez, a mother of two who works remotely in marketing.
“This group is different because we tie in moms’ activities with community service and giving back to the community,” says Lopez. “We collect a yearly fee that goes towards all our different initiatives.”
The club has grown to 45 members and welcomes any mom who is a resident of Mt. Olive to join.
“Requirements to join is to request access of our FB group,” she explains. “Lynnae (our membership coordinator) will reach out to you with all the details of the club, paperwork to fill out and then we collect the yearly fee of $20. Once all of that is done, we welcome you with open arms.”
The club is more than just a group of moms who meet with their children for social time, camaraderie and activities.
“The purpose of the group is to help moms find a community and a village,” says Lopez. “Give back to the community and have other moms we can rely on, count on and be there for each other.”
With meetings held throughout the year and an abundance of activities, moms can count on never being bored.
“We meet at least once a month but encourage moms to plan their own events and meet ups such as stroller walks, park hang outs,” says Lopez. “Meetings are held all over (members houses, the library, the park etc.).”
Finding time for just moms and supporting the community are other objectives of the club.
“We plan a once-a-month moms’ night out activity such as Smores Night,” describes Lopez. “Halloween Pajama Night etc. and we also do community service like adopt a family during Christmas time and a school supply donation during back-to-school month.
“We have so many activities planned for this year, and we would love to have you join us!” Lopez says.
For Lopez, the moms’ club has made such a difference in her chapter as a parent.
“I enjoy the friendships that have been made, the community and village that we foster,” she adds. “That I can call these moms friends for life!
“Please spread the word and help us reach new moms,” says Lopez. “You can sign up via requesting access to our FB group.”
