One thing we’re especially thankful for in this season is the dedicated team of Young Families staff and volunteers we're so fortunate to work with. These folks continue to invest in relationships that help support the growth of each young mom connected to this community.
Today, I want to share some reflections from Louisa Hege, Young Families’ Program Director, on why community and belonging matter to her now more than ever:
In the last 8 years working at Young Families, the impact of community and friendships in the lives of young parents is both seen and talked about daily. Parents have shared their appreciation for the support and care they have received from staff, volunteers and peers.
We have seen lives flourish through stable, genuine and supportive relationships. And so, it was a no brainer for me, going into my 9th year at Young Families and my first year of motherhood, to invite people to journey with me in this new season of life.
What surprised me, however, was just how much it did impact me. It really was life-changing. Half way through my maternity leave, after moving around quite a bit in the first half, I finally found a local family program for my son and I to attend. In many ways, it was quite similar to Young Families.
I remember going there for the first time and immediately sensing in my heart that this would be a new home for my son and I. It was just so powerful to have a space that was for both my child and me. A place where he was safe and free to explore and have fun all the while a place for me to build relationships with those in a similar life space as I was.
We could parent alongside one another, share about our struggles and our joys, not just in parenting, but in all aspects of life. It was a game-changer for me. I felt belonging and a sense of daily purpose. At this drop in, I could care for others as well as have others care for me.
Now that I have returned to work at Young Families, I have a new-found perspective and deeper knowing of what it means for our young parents to have a community here with us.
I'm excited to relate to the families with a renewed heart and to continue working toward providing a caring, compassionate and safe space for parents and their children to flourish in.
Thank you for being part of this connected community of care. We look forward to sharing more updates with you this fall.
Gratefully,
- Louisa Hege and the Young Families Team