The abbreviation “MOMS” in MOMS Club stands for “Moms Offering Moms Support,” and the Phoenix-Norterra Chapter of this national group takes that mission seriously. The Chapter offers opportunities for learning, growth and socialization – for moms and their children. The members not only support each other by hosting weekly play-dates, holding monthly group meetings and sharing much needed advice, but they also run a “Heart-to-Heart” program, which assists new moms or members in crisis by providing home-cooked meals and offering support, including babysitting.
The benefit is access to a group of wonderful local women who have shared experiences and are willing to “lend a hand” to help one other and to be part of their “tribe” through the challenging stages of motherhood. One of the best things is that children are always welcome at events, except for a few “Moms Only” get-togethers, which give members a much needed “break” from their daily responsibilities.
The Phoenix-Norterra Chapter of the MOMS Club has been in existence for almost 8 years, after officially forming in July 2010. It is geared towards serving stay-at-home moms and part-time working moms that reside within the following North Phoenix boundaries: East of 1-17, West of 7th Street, North of Happy Valley Road and South of Carefree Highway, and recently extended to include Tramonto. The Chapter has five volunteer Board members that serve a one-year term, and many additional volunteer coordinators. The Chapter has approximately forty members.
In addition to having playgroups for children of all ages, the Chapter also boasts several sub-clubs for special interests, which allows the members to participate in fun activities such as dinners out, adult and kids crafts, fitness activities, book club, a monthly “Moms Night Out” and a calendar full of activities. The events range from simple park play-dates to elaborate spring carnivals with face painters and games. The Chapter also participates in several service projects throughout the year, which benefit needy moms and kids locally, as well as nationally. The meetings involve Club business, voting if necessary, social time with members and their kids and occasionally guest speakers. Membership is only $25 per year.
One of the favorite events for members is their annual Gala, which is open to the public and is the biggest fundraiser of the year. At their Gala this February, the Chapter raised over $13,000 for Ryan House, their chosen charity this year. Coming up this month on June 15, the Chapter will be hosting their end of the year banquet, where they celebrate their accomplishments and memories of the past year, and honor everything that the MOMS Club means to them. The members have decided to open the event to the public, inviting potential new members that may be interested.
If you are interested in joining this group, or if you would like to find out more information about the group or any upcoming events, contact the Chapter at [email protected], or visit their website at http://norterramomsaz.weebly.com.
