the
Featuring 2014 Award Winners Human Trafficking, A Call to Action Mom to Mom, A Day of Service
Published by American Mothers, Inc.速
2014 Annual Report
| American Mothers Inc.®
Letter From the President Honor, Educate, Serve. That’s what gifts to American Mothers accomplished in 2013-2014, and I’m honored to share the numbers and stories behind your generosity in this Annual Report.
Connect With Us!
American Mothers promotes the importance of motherhood by honoring inspiring mothers across the country and annually names the National Mother of the Year, National Young Mother of the Year and National Mothers of Achievement. We educate moms on topics of critical interest to themselves and their families through our national publications, national conferences, state conferences, daily American Mothers Official Blog, weekly and monthly enewsletters, and American Mothers website. We serve mothers though the many aspects of our Mom to Mom Community Outreach programs, where Moms help other Moms – that’s what we do naturally! The AMI Endowment was founded in 1957 by visionary women to produce funding for American Mothers programs, and that is exactly what it does today. Men and women continue to contribute to the Endowment by becoming Life Time Members, donate to the Honors and Memorials Program, and through Special Projects donations. Please consider supporting motherhood by making a contribution to the AMI Endowment Fund.
National publications include our national magazine which is mailed to members nationally and is available on our website, and our smaller educational pieces which members distribute in their communities to encourage membership in American Mothers. We are collaborating with Innocents at Risk, a 501c(3) non-profit, to develop an educational piece to inform our members about human trafficking, ways to identify it and what to do to save a child which may be a victim of trafficking. Donations to this expansive undertaking would be gratefully received. Our Mom to Mom Community Outreach programs include participation by every State Association to support a Domestic Violence Center by donating household supplies to moms and children leaving the center to begin their lives again. Our educational initiative on Human Trafficking is another outreach program where every mother can participate, regardless of her proximity to a State Association. Knowing the signs of trafficking, and actions to take, empower every mother to support the best interests of every child. That’s what empowers American Mothers members and supporters!
In order to expand the inclusive reach of American Mothers, the National Board recently approved a free membership category to encourage every mother in America to join us! The revenue short fall is a good exchange for touching the lives of additional thousands of women Volunteer hours are another underpinning of across the country. New revenue will come from American Mothers programming. Every dollar is expanding the current Life Time Membership stretched farther due to the significant donation program to encourage more modest donation of time by our members and supporters – time with a commitment over multiple years. Again, which facilitates the extraordinary breadth of we are expanding to touch the lives of mothers programs and services provided by American everywhere. Mothers to mothers and children. The National Board and staff have worked hard That’s where funding comes from, but where during the past year to inspire your confidence, does it go? A majority of expenditures go towards manage our assets with integrity and transpareducating moms via the National Conference ency, and achieve our shared vision for Ameriand national publications. Inspiring moms from can Mothers. Please read this report with pride all over the country receive no-cost registration and appreciation for what your gifts and energy to the Annual Conference to network, particihave accomplished. May you be inspired to conpate in symposiums on hot topics by nationally tinue to invest in the future of motherhood and recognized experts, and brainstorm their parAmerican Mothers, Inc. ticipation in American Mothers programs going — Joan Braitsch, President forward. American Mothers, Inc.®
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The American Mother Magazine
American Mothers Inc.® |
About Us American Mothers, Inc.® is committed to valuing mothers through service and education and has been MomStrong since 1935. As the official sponsor of Mother’s Day and the Mother of the Year®, American Mothers continues the legacy of celebrating motherhood. Honoring the mission of the organization founders Sara Delano Roosevelt, Mamie Eisenhower, JC Penney, and Norman Vincent Peale, American Mothers is dedicated to reducing rates of violence and improving the lives of mothers and families in the US and around the world. Each year American Mothers honors motherhood by naming the National Mother of the Year®, National Young Mother of the Year and National Mothers of Achievement and hosting the Mom to Mom Conference. As an Non Governmental Organization (NGO) centered at the United Nations and leader of the Global Motherhood Coalition, American Mothers organizes annual panel discussions and participates in high level meetings focused on addressing global struggles for mothers and families. By bringing mothers together from across the country, American Mothers organizes maternal energy for positive change. Many outstanding individuals throughout the US have served as officers, leaders, members, and supporters of American Mothers including Phyllis Marriott, Congresswoman Lindy Boggs, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. After 80 years we are still MomStrong!
Our Values
• An abiding respect for mothers and their role in society.
• An acknowledgement of diversity among mothers and their individual choices.
• A desire for collaboration between mothers in service for the common good.
• A recognition of the power of a mother’s inner strength.
• A heart of compassion for issues and challenges facing mothers around the globe.
• A commitment to honor mothers for their leadership and service at home, at work and in the world.
Our Mission To champion women by honoring, educating and serving mothers at home, at work and in the world.
Our Vision To be a nationally recognized and respected voice on issues impacting mothers.
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Member News
Mom to Mom Day of Service & Our Moms in Action
Meet America’s Mom: Gerre Schwert
Moms Making a Difference: Heidi Kim
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2014 State Mothers of the Year
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2014 State Young Mothers of the Year National Mothers of Achievement Lifetime Achievement Award:
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Ruth P. Manning
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Feature Human Trafficking: A Call To Action
Published by American Mothers, Inc.®
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Commission on the Status of Women Mom Strong: Sharon Parker
5th Grade Essay & Membership Information Financial Review
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| American Mothers Inc.®
Letter from the Director
American Mothers, Inc.®
Executive Director: Andrea Ball Membership: Jacquie Ball info@americanmothers.org
2013-15 AMI Board of Directors
President: Joan Braitsch 1st Vice President: Dianne Callister 2nd Vice President: Vivian Dibb 3rd Vice President: Carrie Leonard Secretary: Yolanda Perez Treasurer: Valerie Earnshaw Area I Coordinator: Sherri Zirker Area II Coordinator: Joyce Stevens Area III Coordinator: Renee Devine Area V Coordinator: Tara Trobaugh Area VI Coordinator: Maria Amalbert Immediate Past-President: Connell Branan Nominating Chairman: Karen King Awards Chairman: Kathy Walker Public Relations Chairman: Krista Ritacco Membership Chairman: Jennifer Larsen Endowment Fund: JaLynn Prince Education Chairman: Debbie Sipos Literacy Chairman: Kimberly Stevenson Mother of the Year Search: Lela Sullivan Young Mother Search: Julie Starr Parliamentarian: Deanne Taylor Special Projects: Sheila Monke National Mother of the Year: Gerre Schwert National Young Mother of the Year: Heidi Kim
The American Mother Magazine Editor Connell Branan Contributors Dianne Callister Brandon Carter Deb Sigmund Design & Layout Kalico Design Frederick, MD www.kalicodesign.com
American Mothers has been busy this year! After a wonderful convention in Colorado in April, our most exciting change in 2014 has been the opportunity for free membership in American Mothers to introduce new women to this wonderful organization. Please tell your friends to sign up on the website or contact the office! In the late summer, we hosted a successful campaign to raise awareness and supplies for “Babies at the Border”. This effort wasn’t about the political conversation but recognized that thousands of children need basic supplies at the border of our country until the government can figure out the next steps. AMI was honored to raise over $6000 toward this effort with help from moms…and I personally thank you! The AMI leadership will head to Dallas, Texas for the 2014 fall board meeting where the board of directors will map out the next year of activities, honoring plans and start working on programming for the 2015 Annual Convention in Washington DC. We have a lot of family centric events planned so consider bringing your
the
family to this wonderful event and see the Nation’s Capital! I know that each of you knows an extraordinary mom. It may be your mom or sister, child’s teacher or best friend but consider nominating her for an American Mother honor. Tell her thank you for her hard work, dedication and love. Nomination forms can be found on the website at www.americanmothers.org and I can personally assure you, we are receiving some amazing candidates and I love reading about them. As always, we appreciate our members and volunteers, as we continue to reach, teach and honor moms and the extraordinary jobs they do. Finally, I hope you’ll take some extra time when reading this issue of the American Mother, to carefully review the AMI Annual Report enclosed. As mothers, we don’t always realize how much we accomplish each day and this is also true as an organization. This report offers a snapshot of American Mothers accomplishments and our continued efforts across the country and around the world. I’m proud to read it and see what a difference AMI makes and I know you will be also. See you in DC! — Andrea Ball, Executive Director
2014 Annual Report
Featuring 2014 Award Winners Human Trafficking, A Call to Action Mom to Mom, A Day of Service
On the Cover: Snapshots of our moms across the country making a difference!
Published by American Mothers, Inc.®
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Mom Day of Service Mom to
In May of 2014, American Mothers initiated a national service project called The Mom to Mom Service Day Project in an effort to support mothers who are seeking a second chance at life. As an organization dedicated to improving the lives of mothers and children, AMI is bringing moms across the country together to collect household items for mothers who are in shelters and need help moving forward.
DC METRO The DC Association made a donation to the Staff of Community Advocates for Family & Youth (CAFY) who serve woman affected by domestic violence. Items donated included towels, dinnerware, silverware, personal hygiene supplies, socks, make- up, lotion, shampoo and more. A partnership was developed with this group and there are plans to continue collecting items and attend their upcoming silent auction. The DC Metro Association is supporting a Women’s’ Shelter in South East DC, and chapter members reach out to the community through grief counseling. – Vanessa Antrum, DC Metro President
Idaho
Every day women who live in or leave shelters have little with which to begin their lives. Shelters are in need of household items to help women and children move on to the next positive chapter of their lives. AMI celebrates the spirit of mothers helping mothers.
of American Mothers are all volunteer moms working to support the mothers who need -help right here in our own communities. Our mission as AMI moms is “to champion women by honoring, educating and serving mothers at home, at work and in the world.” The mission for the Boise based WCA is “Safety, healing and freedom from domestic abuse and sexual assault.” As Boise moms ourselves, we were blessed to be part of the WCA vision of “fostering a community where individuals thrive in safe, healthy relationships.” Our Idaho group of moms communicated with the WCA on items most needed, then began the gathering process – amazing amount of items donated since so many of our peers are now downsizing. The moms packed, boxed, and loaded all donated items and transported in multiple delivers to the WAC who were ready for our deliveries. The Women’s and Children’s Alliance organization was so thrilled with our support and donations. As mothers, we gratefully returned to our own families enjoying the fact that we made a positive difference to these many mothers and their children housed at the WCA in Boise, Idaho. All of us mothers can make an impact in our communities!
“No one has ever become poor by giving.” — Anne Frank, Di- – Becky Rowan, Idaho Association ary of Anne Frank The Idaho AMI chapter participated in The Mom to Mom Service Day by selecting the Women’s and Children’s Alliance in Boise, Idaho. Members of the Idaho Association Published by American Mothers, Inc.®
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Mom Mom Day of Service
Nebraska
donations received by the ‘Planted Purse Project,’ the Bistro refreshment stand, and the awareness brought forth for The Bridge and the Nebraska Mothers Association. It truly only takes a drop to create that ripple…we are busy planning for the TLC Fall Open House in the next few weeks, with more fresh and new ideas.
to
– Sheila Monke, Nebraska Association WE are Strong Women Each day we step out the door With our purse over our shoulder Confident in the fact that its contents Hold everything we need to conquer the world. by Sue Fase As those women in our area begin to rebuild their lives and for their children, The Planted Purse Project was once again very successful in the support for direct services offered by “The Bridge,” an agency servicing those who encounter domestic violence and sexual assault.
Utah STUFF A TRUCK service project took place in May at Wolverine Crossing, near Utah Valley University. This was a pilot project for our local MOMS chapter in conjunction with the American Mothers national initiative to supply household items for women with children in shelters and crisis centers as they leave to begin their new phase of life.
Wolverine Crossing (WC) is a large apartment complex, housing mostly UVU students. At semester’s end, many students move, and we proThe first weekend in May, and again the first vided boxes for them to donate household items. weekend in September, Sue Fase of TLC CounAfter a two week waiting period, pots & pans, try Floral, in Hooper, Nebraska, hosts an open dishes, small appliances, lightly used linens, house for touring the many gardens, greenhouse, rugs and other household items that are abanand Country Store. The Planted Purse Project is doned or left behind can be collected by staff, her creation, as she promotes advocacy and this transported by us to United Way where items are cause strongly. refurbished and packed in kits for distribution Volunteers from ‘The Bridge’ established a through Crisis Centers. Garden Bistro, serving refreshments and lunch The general manager and staff at WC went the for avid gardeners during the three-day event. extra mile and were very helpful. We learned a The Bridge also receives donations of clothing lot from what we did and plan in the future to and personal products on these weekends, again work at intervals with WC and United Way as toward direct services. the need for this service is continual. Within three days after returning from Colorado – Deanne Taylor, Utah Association Springs, and the American Mothers Conference, it was an essential step to involve, thus promote and build awareness for the Nebraska Mothers Assoc., along with AMI, our purpose and mission. What better way than the newly developed ‘Mom to Mom’ Project…AMI brochures were quickly mailed from the home office, and contact information shared easily during the open house. We accomplished a great deal in a short time, over $1,000.00 raised through the combined
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Our Moms in Action Arizona For Mother’s Day, 2014, the Arizona Chapter of American Mothers, Inc. donated fifty Care Packages for Care Givers. Special gift bags were delivered to the Phoenix Children’s Hospital for mothers who have had an extended stay with a sick child. Some of the bags contained journals, books, hand lotion, lip balm, snacks and a gift card to a local restaurant. And notice something about this last picture? They even donated quilts too! which were handmade by the incredible women of the Arizona Chapter of American Mothers Inc. – Tamara Passey, Arizona Association
Oklahoma
nor’s Reception” before the parade with Governor Dave Heineman and his wife, Sally. Incidentally, this patriotic celebration in Seward was featured on the TODAY SHOW along with 4 other 4th of July celebrations taking place across the United States. – Joyce Stevens, Nebraska Association
Tennessee Tara Trobaugh, 2013 National Young Mother of the Year, joined forces with Gerre Schwert, 2014 National Mother of the Year at the She Expo in Chattanooga where Gerre’s daughter Ree Drummond, was the featured speaker. One of our newest state associations, Tennessee is on the fast track for growth and continues to raise awareness about American Mothers in the region! – Tara Trobaugh, Georgia Association
Mothers filled the state capitol to recognize three incredible women and hear Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin laud the positive impact Oklahoma mothers have had in the state. The 2014 Oklahoma honorees were also recognized in the state senate where they spoke about the importance of raising good citizens. – Connell Branan, Oklahoma Association
Nebraska Past and Present Nebraska Mothers of the Year participated in the 4th of July parade in Seward, Nebraska where these special moms were also invited to the “Gover-
Washington
Mothers from one of our newest state associations wasted no time in obtaining recognition for their honorees. Pictured here are the 2014 Washington Mother and Young Mother of the Year with their families, the Governor, and the 2013 Washington Mother of the Year! – Washington Association
Published by American Mothers, Inc.®
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Meet America’s Mom Gerre Schwert, 2014 National Mother of the Year® By Brandon Carter Start in downtown Chattanooga, and head southeast. Climb a ways, whether on foot, on a bike, or even in your car, and you’ll soon find yourself looking down upon Tennessee’s fourth largest city, though the bustle and noise has dissipated, leaving only calm. The Lookout name comes from the Cherokee term for “two mountains looking at each other.” A glance across town gives one the opportunity to see Signal Mountain, home of one Gerre Schwert. Like the two mountains, hers is a tale of two acts, united by an easy consistency, and each remarkable for their own achievements. The first mountain, one that many have climbed before, is the role of the family-centered mother, a servant to all around her yet also the reader of the pack. The second mountain is much less-traveled, perhaps more difficult, and far foreign terrain to most of us. Like that of a mother, it’s the role of someone tasked with fixing broken things and bringing tranquility to the mind. It’s a mountain most of us will never see. But to Gerre Schwert, the 2014 National Mother of the Year®, it’s just another mountain that needed crossin’.
Where the Wind Comes Sweepin’ Down the Plains
have their children well cared for. Thankfully, most of us haven’t had to do that.”
Schwert’s story begins in Nowata, Oklahoma. The daughter of a schoolteacher and an independent oil contractor (and part-time inventor and talented bronze sculptor), Gerre Leffler was raised in one of those households where no one actually goes by their real names.
She graduated from Oklahoma State University, then spent a few years teaching public school in the Oklahoma City area. Then, as is often the case, life presented her another career all its own: motherhood. For the next twenty-odd years, life was about her husband Bill, Doug, Ann Marie, Mike, and Betsy.
Gerre’s mother Norma, also known as GaGa, raised Gerre to understand that women had roles in all parts of society - not just the home, not just the office. A woman was needed wherever she felt she needed to be. “A mom is the mom and it’s great when she can be there with the children, but I’m all for young women having careers,” she says. “I have also seen mothers who, due to circumstances, have worked two or three jobs and still manage to
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It was about adaptability, learning, compassion, flexibility… everything her children would need, should their eyes ever look past the fields and forests of Green Country. Then again, it was also about getting up early on Christmas and making cinnamon rolls by hand, and delivering them, still warm, to friends and neighbors and church family. To this Oklahoma mother, life was about “out yonder” as well as “round these parts.”
The American Mother Magazine
Honor | She raised her own children to look beyond just Doug, but his own family as well - six total their environment, focusing on skills that could children and, particularly, the ten grandchildren translate anywhere, regardless of who or what between their two units. the kids decided to be. “It was natural to me to fall in with his children. “Children come to you as who they are, and We have children in Florida, Oklahoma, Texas, you can love them, and then provide them with Seattle, New Jersey,” Tennessee is right in the as many opportunities as possible,” Gerre says. middle of them, and we’ve had opportunities to be a part of every one of their lives.” “They’re not going to fit into any mold you might have for them. Having a certain agenda She made peace with her children, who found for them isn’t going to have the best outcome. difficulty in coming to terms with the decisions their mother had made regarding her own life “The best gift a child can receive in life is to and wellbeing. These days she’s as close as ever have the honest enjoyment of a parent.” with Doug, Mike, Betsy and Ann Marie, who is Everything worked. With all four kids out of now known to millions around the world as Ree, the house and making lives of their own, Gerre a.k.a. The Pioneer Woman. had aced Family Raisin’ 101, so to speak. Then, “They are each such individuals and each difafter nearly thirty years of marriage, and over ferent from the other. They have each had their twenty years of rearing children, she needed a successes and struggles and have prevailed, and change for herself. they are each a delight to be around as adults,” she says. Beginning Again At age 55, with as much life behind her as she might find ahead, she started over. She and Bill divorced, Gerre found a place to live all her own and set out to climb that second mountain. She took a part time job and returned to school (this time crossing over to the University of Oklahoma, archrivals of the Oklahoma State Cowboys). She earned her master’s in social work, another field that requires compassion and firmness. Like motherhood, social work requires as much listening as speaking.
“Motherhood is filled with successes and mistakes, and children are thankfully resilient! Is the overall point to be able to say, “I did a good job?” I truly believe that we all have done the best we could do at the time.
It was at Yale-New Haven Hospital in Connecticut that she found joy in working with cancer patients. She held hands of the dying and comforted those whom life had dealt the most difficult cards. Gerre looked patientsfriends - in the eye as they discussed pallative end-of-life decisions.
She’s found peace with her past and her future, and having a daughter who’s recognized around the world always keeps thing interesting.
She found love again in the form of an Episcopal priest named Doug Schwert. And not
pretty good.
About the Author Brandon Carter is a freelance writer and public relations professional from Salt Lake City. He can be reached at bscarter@gmail.com
“When I see my children being great parents and they are - it is the closest I come to feeling satisfied with my role as mother.”
Today, life is about the mountain - Signal Mountain, sittin’ atop Chattanooga. Doug Schwert is retired but Gerre works on at age 73. Within two years, she was a licensed clinical social worker who found herself in Connecticut, “Working with cancer patients and their famifar from the plains of home, and seemingly light lies is a place I feel I want to be,” she says. “I truly enjoy this work immensely.” years removed from her first mountain.
“Ree was born with a fun and creative spirit and I’m proud of the gracious way in which she handles celebrity,” Gerre says. “I am occasionally recognized as New worlds opened. She learned about mindful- The Pioneer Woman’s mom and ness, of living in the moment and being in tune that makes me smile inside!” with the world at large, and became a mindSome days she looks back - it’s body therapist. She practiced Reiki, a Japahard not to when Lookout Mounnese technique for relaxation and healing, and tain is just across the way - but to espoused the benefits of journaling. Gerre, the view from right now is
Published by American Mothers, Inc.®
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MomsMaking A
Difference Heidi Kim,
2014 National Young Mother of the Year® By Brandon Carter
Ask anyone who’s been there, and they’ll tell you Hawaii is an unforgettable experience. The water, the beaches, the scenery, the wildlife, the food, the music...it’s an astounding place to spend a few days, or weeks, if you’re fortunate. For Heidi Kim, the islands aren’t just a tourist spot or a place for a really nice company retreat - it’s home, and its people are her family. The 2014 National Young Mother of the Year has experienced what the world has to offer, from the mainland US, Canada, Japan,and beyond. She could live practically anywhere she chooses. Yet for her, there is no choice: Aiea, on the island of Oahu, is home.
“We really try to travel with our kids, read to our kids, expose them to different ideas, religions, cultures, places, climates. I think it makes for a richer person.” Life on the Mainland Heidi was born on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai, her genes a veritable tour of Asia - Korean, Chinese, Japanese. She traveled to California for college, and while studying at Santa Clara University she met Hawaii-born Edwin Sniffen, who hails from a Native Hawaiian/German/English/Irish/ Chinese bloodline. The two were married soon 10
after graduating and after spending a few years working in Hawaii, the couple found themselves wanting to experience the national scene. They moved to Oregon where each cut their teeth in the professional world and experienced aspects of life unfamiliar to Hawaii, knowing that they’d be better prepared to serve a family and their communities that way. “We wanted to get that experience, mostly to prove to ourselves that we could do it,” she says. “Here in Hawaii there is sometimes a feeling that we’re not as good as the mainland. It’s a mentality we deal with here, maybe something people deal with in small towns everywhere, and we wanted to move past it.”
Aloha Means Hello (Again) By the time their first child, Sam, was about to be born, they were ready to return back to
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the islands. Heidi stopped working full-time to focus on raising the kids, soon adding twins Simon and Eli to the mix. Life was wonderful and fulfilling. She was back in Hawaii, raising her children the way she wanted and watching them thrive in the same environment she grew up in. But eventually financial realities and the call of the corporate world could not be ignored. After seven years at home, Heidi found her way back to the office in a role that fit not only her professional abilities but love of community service as well. As a marketing executive for the R.M. Towill Corporation, she is involved in community service initiatives and in the company’s corporate giving program. This places her in direct contact with charitable organizations across the state, and she works with them to place resources precisely where they’re most needed. “The community service component of my job is extremely rewarding. Being able to support organizations that serve our community is so satisfying,”she says. As if giving back to the community as a profession wasn’t enough, Heidi devotes much of her personal time to volunteering as well. She’s active with the local March of Dimes, school associations, professional groups and other charitable organizations. And from the time they were very little, her boys could be seen at walk-a-thons and fundraising events with her. “It is important to me that community service isn’t something that just Mom goes out to do. Giving back is something that we do as a family as gratitude for living in such a special place.”
The World View A demanding career, a commitment to community service, a devotion to her family...with what little time those pursuits leave her, Heidi still places a high priority on showing her kids the world. Much like her and Edwin’s time spent in Oregon, she thinks the kids will be better prepared to serve Hawaii if they’re aware of how the rest of the world operates. “We really try to travel with our kids, read to our kids, expose them to different ideas, religions, cultures, places, climates. I think it makes for a richer person.”
“We want our kids to know where they come from and be rooted in Hawaiian values and culture. But also to know that, if they choose to, they can make it any where in the world.” Even still, her kids have been to nearly every island in Hawaii, and have learned the unique characteristics of each one.
Striking a Balance So, all of this begs the question - the same questions mothers across the country are asked every day - how in the world does she find time for all this? How does one find balance amid chaos? “I honestly don’t consider myself any busier than any other mother here in Hawaii. We all wear so many hats,” she says. “The price of paradise is high. There isn’t much opportunity for mothers to stay home here without taking a huge financial hit. You need a dual income household to make ends meet.” Every day brings new light and new adventures. Heidi’s just happen to come in a place where the temperature hovers around the mid-seventies each day, and the most common soundtrack is the waves endlessly caressing the beaches. Not to mention the occasional tourists chasing each other out amid the waves. She’s seen the world. As the first Asian American and Hawaiian National Young Mother of the Year, the world practically flows through her veins.
Nominations Do you know a special mother? If so, nominate her for Mother of the Year, Young Mother or one of our Mother of Achievement Awards by visiting americanmothers.org. Nomination forms with the necessary information are now available online.
But no matter what or where life takes Heidi and her family, they always return to the same place, the same people, the same family. Hawaii. Oahu. Home.
Published by American Mothers, Inc.®
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Congratulations
2014 State Mothers
PATRICIA PAYNE, AL
MARY FAIRBANKS, AK
Lila Shoemaker , AZ
GINGER BEEBE, AR
JANNA O’BRYANT, CA
LOUISE BATTLE, DC
HELEN KRUGER, DE
LINDA MITCHELL, GA
JULIE SPARKS, HI
BECKY ROWAN, ID
KATHRYN HOLYOAK, IL
SUZANNE BEARD, IN
NAOMI CHRISTENSEN, IA
SHERRI HILLS, KS
MARION NEWCOMER, MO
SABRINA WISHER, MT
SHEILA MONKE, NE
ROBIN VAN KEMPEN, NV
JUDY MILLER, NM
JANICE SCHIMKE, ND
GERRE SCHWERT, TN
KIMBERLY JONES, TX
MELANIE STOKER, UT
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ANN STEPHENSON CAMERON, OK NYLDA ROSA GONZALEZ, PR
CELESTE MERGENS, WA
The American Mother Magazine
KRISTIN BRINGHURST, WY
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Congratulations
2014 State Young Mothers
ANITA UNDERWOOD, AK
JILL GEIGLE, AZ
JOCELYN HANSEN CA
KAT REYNOLDS, CO
KATIE HAYDEN, GA
HEIDI KIM, HI
LAURA ALVAREZ SCHRAG, ID
SHAWNA WEBER, IL
KANDRA POWELL, IA
CASSANDRA NORMANDEAU, MT
NIKKI MORGAN BUTLER, NV
LINDSEY NELSON, ND
STEPHANIE BRADY, OK
DONYA STEVENSON, PA
ZOELY FIGUEROA GARCIA, PR
TAMA LEDFORD, TN
JESSICA MERRIFIELD, TX
BREANNE MELINE, UT
SARAH PASSEY, WA
AMY BRINTON, WI
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2014
National Mothers of
Achievement
LYNN CLARK CALLISTER Lynn Callister is a mother of eleven children – five of them she gave birth to; 6 of them became her children when she married Reed Richards Callister. She has been a tremendous influence in their lives, as well as in the lives of her 50 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Lynn sacrificed to complete her education in nursing so she could educate and support mothers and children not only in her own country, but around the world. She is considered a global maternal/newborn health expert, Fulbright scholar to the Russian Federation, member of the March of Dimes bioethics council and the March of Dimes nurses’ advisory council, and a professor emerita of nursing at Brigham Young University.
LIEUTENANT GENERAL MICHELLE D. JOHNSON Prior to her selection to be the nineteenth Superintendent of the United States Air Force Academy, Lt. Gen. Johnson was the Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations and Intelligence, Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Casteau, Belgium. She is the first female Superintendent in Air Force Academy history. A distinguished graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1981, General Johnson completed graduate studies as a Rhodes Scholar before earning her pilot wings in 1984. She has served in various assignments in air mobility, airlift and tanker flying operations and training, academic instruction and personnel. She has commanded the 9th Air Refueling Squadron, the 97th Operations Group and the 22nd Air Refueling Wing. The general commanded a deployed air refueling squadron in Operation Southern Watch and an air refueling wing in support of operations Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. She has served as the Air Force aide to the President, an Assistant Professor of Political Science, and Associate Air Officer Commanding at the U.S. Air Force Academy. She was also the Director of Personnel for Air Mobility Command and Director of Air Force Public Affairs. General Johnson served as the Deputy Director for Information and Cyberspace Policy on the Joint Staff and as the Director, Strategy, Policy, Programs and Logistics, U.S. Transportation Command, Scott Air Force Base, Ill. General Johnson is a command pilot with more than 3,600 flying hours in C-141, T-41, KC-10, C-17, C-5 and KC-135 aircraft.
MORAIMA OYOLA Moraima Oyola is a great citizen, an exemplary mother, and a community leader who has dedicated her life to helping others to forge a new beginning. She represents the voices of thousands of marginalized people who cannot fend for themselves. Her sensitivity and clarity of action has impacted youth, children and battered women. She is the founding Executive Director of the Puerto Rico based NGO Forjando un Nuevo Comienzo. The non-profit services the destitute, women who have suffered abuse, youth at risk, children with learning challenges, and the homeless. Her many awards include the Latina Leader Award by the Image Foundation; Woman Award by the National Hispana Leadership Institute, and the Exemplary Life Award granted by Dr. Anto-
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The American Mother Magazine
Honor | nia Coello Novello, former Surgeon General of the United States. She is the founder and leader of the international social empowerment movement “Pero hoy NO es el dia…” (But today is not the day…) which is advancing ways to end violence in our society. Her work in the movement was recognized by the conferment of the Latina Leader Award and documented by CNN Latino in France, and in several cities in the U.S. She is a speaker, writer, and author of the book Who Said You Can’t Do It?
EDIE ROODMAN Edie Roodman was born and raised in St. Louis and attended Arizona State, receiving a BA in Political Science though in the process there were no less than five major changes. While at ASU, Edie’s maternal instincts surfaced early when she worked as a nanny for the Romero family. Edie taught secondary social studies while pursuing masters degrees in education and counseling. She began a doctorate in women’s studies prior to moving to Houston where husband Eli Reshef began medical school. While Eli was studying, Edie launched her volunteer involvement and worked for Houston Community College as Women’s Reentry Program Director. Just before Eli’s residency, Erielle was born. Birmingham brought new challenges—Edie served as Jewish Family Agency’s Director of Senior Services and expanded the family with baby Evan. After four years, on to Louisville for Eli’s fellowship and baby three, Eitan, plus another professional opportunity as the Jewish Federation’s Assistant Director. Next stop OKC where Eli assumed a position at OU Medical Center and Edie fell into her dream job as Executive Director of the OKC Jewish Federation.
JANE STRINGFELLOW Jane Stringfellow was born and raised in Waterloo, IN. She graduated from Ball State Teachers College in Muncie, IN with a BS in elementary education. Jane accepted a teaching position with Arlington County Virginia Public Schools where she was an elementary classroom teacher. After earning her MA in reading from George Washington University, she moved from the classroom to the position of elementary school reading specialist, working with children from kindergarten through sixth grade. She taught for 32 years in the Arlington Public Schools. While teaching, Jane was introduced to Charlie Stringfellow, and they were married December 30, 1983. Jane and Charlie moved to Santa Fe, NM in 2007. Jane is a ruling elder at First Presbyterian Church, chairs the Preschool Advisory Committee and is Co – Moderator of Presbytery’s Commission on Ministry. She is on the Santa Fe Opera Guild Board of Directors and Vice President of her P.E.O. chapter.
s n o i t a l u t a r g n o C to our 2014 State Mothers of Achievement! Mary Bates Washington, DC
Florence Manwaring, ID
Madeline Free Habib, ND
Ruth Manning, GA
Diane Noll, IA
Kimberly Hall, TX
Published by American Mothers, Inc.®
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| Honor
American Mothers Lifetime Achievement Award
Ruth P. Manning The American Mothers Lifetime Achievement Award is given for outstanding achievements and inspiring contributions, over decades, which have strengthened American Mothers and been supportive of mothers and children everywhere. This Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes dedication to American Mothers over the whole of a career. Ruth P. Manning has a passion for teaching and for sharing the principles of good parenting to groups throughout Georgia. Ruth’s love of education caused her to earn a Master’s Degree in Education and to teach for 31 years. She was named teacher of the year eleven times, top administrator several times when an elementary school
principle, and NASA’s “National Parenting Leader of the Year”. On Saturday mornings for 13 years, she presented programs on good parenting skills and mentored up to 90 parents in this NASA sponsored initiative. The Salvation Army said of Ruth, “Ruth’s passion to help others is distinctive.” Ruth has received numerous accolades from Georgia Governors, her alma mater, community groups, the Salvation Army, television stations, and many others. Wife of a United Methodist minister, Ruth has four children, 14 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren! Ruth is receiving the AMI Lifetime Achievement Award for her extensive service to AMI. She was named 1988 Georgia Mother of the Year, the AMI
National President 1999-2001, and is currently serving as President of the Georgia Mothers Association. Annually, she leads the Georgia Mothers Association’s Mother’s Day breakfast for approximately 100 homeless mothers. Ruth was the editor of the AMI Magazine for many years and received the AMI May Lindsay National Service Award in 2007. Ruth’s generosity to members of American Mothers is exemplary. Since 1988, Ruth has been a strong and contributing member of American Mothers, and for her service and leadership to American Mothers, Ruth P. Manning is awarded the coveted American Mothers Lifetime Achievement Award.
Circle of Excellence!
Congratulations to the Puerto Rico Association of American Mothers, the 2014 CIRCLE OF EXCELLENCE AWARD WINNER!
The CIRCLE OF EXCELLENCE award of American Mothers, Inc. is a new award in 2014, and will be awarded to a State Association which most clearly exemplifies the mission, vision, and values of American Mothers. American Mothers, Inc. champions women by honoring, educating and serving mothers at home, at work, and in the world. The CIRCLE OF EXCELLENCE award will be given annually as appropriate at the American Mothers Nation-
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al Convention. This year, the honored state association will receive a check in the amount of $1,000 from a very generous, anonymous donor whose passion is to support mothers and families across the country and the world. The first recipient of this award is a deserving State Association which has recognized the important role of motherhood by annually selecting a state mother of the year, a state young mother of the year and a state mother of achievement. Additionally, they have
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submitted all the appropriate paperwork for honorees by the national deadlines. This deserving State Association has also supported the mission of American Mothers on the local and national level. They energetically promote the 5th Grade Essay Contest, they reach out to mothers and enthusiastically establish new chapters, and they continually provide leadership on the National Board. Congratulations, Puerto Rico Association!
Section Get Involved Head |
Nominate!
Meet the Team Carrie Leonard is the 3rd Vice President for American Mothers and leads our national search efforts. She is the mother of four children, an attorney and community volunteer. Carrie was recognized as the 2012 National Young Mother of the Year.
Lela Sullivan, is a civic leader, mom and grandmother and serves as the Mother of the Year Search Chairman. She has successfully led the search efforts for American Mothers in her home state and now at the national level. Julie Starr is the Young Mother Search Chairman and has played an active role at American Mothers since she was recognized as the 2000 Colorado Young Mother of the Year. Julie is a registered nurse and the mom of two grown children. athy Walker is the Awards Chairman and K oversees the selection process for our National Mothers of Achievement. Kathy has served her local municipality as a councilwoman and Mayor while being the mother to four children and grandmother of four. Kathy was also named the 2012 Oklahoma Mother of the Year.
For 80 years, American Mothers has been a driving force in championing women by honoring, educating and serving mothers. Offering programs that target key issues facing mothers and children, it has been a source of support for families and has provided a network for sharing experiences with mothers of all ages and backgrounds. By selecting the National Mother of the Year®, Young Mother and Mothers of Achievement from nominees across the country, American Mothers continues to promote mothers and the significant impact they are making on a local, national and international level. To nominate that special mother you know, go to www.americanmothers.org and hit the nominate button! It’s as easy as filling out a simple form. The deadline for all nominations is November 15, 2014!
Mom Strong
from the archives
Meet Bertha Holt. A nurse, farmer, author and adoption advocate, Bertha and her husband worked in the Oregon lumber business while raising six children. It was here that they became concerned with the plight of Korean orphans adopting 8 of these children into their home They traveled to Korea frequently to help others adopt and built an orphanage overseas. Later, they established the Holt Adoption Program to facilitate the adoption process for other American families. Bertha even wrote a book about it titled “The Seed from the East.” She was recognized by American Mothers for these efforts as the 1966 National Mother of the Year®. Pictured: Bertha Holt (center), with President Johnson and the American Mothers President, Dorothy Lewis, at the White House
Published by American Mothers, Inc.®
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| Educate
Human Trafficking
A Call to Action
By Deborah Sigmund
Since 2005 Innocents at Risk has been dedicated to the fight to end child trafficking. We have learned that Awareness is Prevention and by turning Millions of eyes of the issue, we can put an end to this horrific evil. We need your help to complete this mission!!!
About The Author Deborah Sigmund is the 2013 DC Metropolitan Area Mother of the Year and Founder and Director of Innocents at Risk, a non-profit, founded in April 2005, to help stop the trafficking of women and children. The United States Department of State has endorsed the organization’s efforts on behalf of the three million women and children who are trafficked annually worldwide. Prior to becoming the full-time Executive Director of Innocents at Risk, Mrs. Sigmund was President of the CMW Group, an international consulting firm specializing in Latin America. She continues to serve on the board of the U.S. Mexico Chamber of Commerce. Sigmund is married and the mother of five children.
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When we mention “Child Trafficking” most people think that is what happens to children on the other side of the world in India or China. While it does happen there, it happens in every country around the world and it happens in the United States. World wide it is a 32 Billion Industry Dollar annually. Over 2 Million children are forced into the world of the sex trade each year. In the US, each year over 200,000 are taken by force or fraud and put into this underground world of evil. According to the National Center of Missing And Exploited Children and The Department of Justice, child trafficking generates $9.5 Billion Dollars in the US each year. Traffickers responsible can make as much as $200.000 per child each year. It is the fastest growing criminal industry in the world!! You see, to get into the drug trade one must have cash; to get into child trafficking, you only need a child who can be sold over and over again. These are the facts and the hash reality of why everyone needs to get on board in order to protect children. In a recent meeting in Washington DC with Homeland Security and The FBI, I was asked to work with them to help educate the public of the following: Law Enforcement (Federal and Local) needs our help. There is little funding for law enforcement and they cannot possibly handle this horrific problem alone. The public must we made aware that children have become a commodity. It’s not ok to let your second grade son walk to the park by himself-- you may never see him again. It’s not ok
to let your 12 year old daughter and a friend be alone at Disney World or the mall. This is how children go missing every day. At a Conference in June, I met a mother from Iowa who’s 12 year old son was kidnapped from his paper route. He was later seen on a Russian pornography sight. This is just one example of what can happen when children are alone. According to the FBI, a parent or guardian’s rule in public places should be, ‘if you can’t see them, they are too far away’. It is not the intention of law enforcement to create a state of fear, but rather only to be wise. Rather than say this problem is overwhelming and be discouraged, here are some ways you can help: • Check out our website: innocentsatrisk.org We have information that will inform you of the issue as well as how to recognize situations of possible trafficking. • Get Involved and educate yourself, your children and friends about this issue. Watch the movie “Taken” and have your children (11 and above) watch it with you. The movie is based on a true story. What happens in that scene at the airport in Paris, happens in our airports, or malls and school yards. There are many “Romeos” out there recruiting young girls and boys for false job opportunities or to just go to a party. It is a business!!! • Talk to your schools, parent organizations, churches, synagogues and leaders in your community.
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Educate |
• Talk to your local officials, legislatures, and civic leaders. • Talk to your Members of Congress as ask them to support Anti Trafficking Legislation! We need harsher penalties for anyone who has anything to do with selling a child! We need more funding for local law enforcement for training. Law enforcement needs to be able to recognize a victim. Once under a traffickers control, children are taught to fear law enforcement and do not co-operate. The victims need proper care and attention to be brought out of their trauma. There is also a need for additional safe havens to put the children. There is pending legislation to help with all these issues. Let’s not sit by and do nothing! Child Trafficking has prevailed because it thrives on secrecy. The more you know, the more you can do to help prevent it. Please join us in the Fight to Stop Child Trafficking! We must work together to keep our children......all children safe!!! As Mother’s we can join together to stop this evil! As Mother’s if we can’t stop it, who can? For more information on how you can specifically get involved contact American Mothers or Innocents at Risk. I look forward to working with each of you!
Be Active In Your Community Learn what is going on in your own neighborhood. Recognize the signs of activity that seem out of the ordinary. Lobby for local and state anti-trafficking legislation. Advocate for local law enforcement training about recognizing and assisting trafficked persons. Organize or participate in a community task force against trafficking. Invite a speaker to your local community group, place of work, place of worship or civic organization to talk about the issue. Include trafficking awareness programs in your local schools. Place an article in your professional publication or newsletter or write a letter to the editor of your local paper.
Talk To Your Children Agree on guidelines concerning Internet usage. Warn them about exciting job offers. Traffickers lure teens with promises of opportunities like modeling, graduate programs and nannying overseas. Stress the need to be wary of strangers. Traffickers hang out around malls, theme parks, schools, movie theaters, sports clubs, community centers and other places where groups of children and young people can be found. Tell them to beware of the Romeo approach. If a man promises a wonderful job with lots of money and lovely clothing, think again. Encourage them not to travel alone. They can see the world with a friend and they should stay together.
Innocents at Risk
is a child-advocacy non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization established to fight human trafficking by raising awareness and providing educating at many levels: internationally, in the corporate sector; students in public schools and universities; and among the general public. Innocents at Risk is dedicated to protecting children from all forms of abuse, and working to end child exploitation and child trafficking everywhere. To learn more, visit www.InnocentsatRisk.org.
Published by American Mothers, Inc.®
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| Educate
American Mothers and the Commission on the
Status of Women American Mothers is a non-governmental organization in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. American Mothers recognizes that domestic violence is among the top killers of mothers around the globe and the most dangerous threat facing women today. Statistics show that 1 in 4 women have been abused, and children born in the culture of violence are more likely to continue that cycle. American Mothers is currently working with the United Nations to raise awareness about this issue worldwide and is committed to valuing, elevating and empowering
mothers to break the cycle of violence for future generations. American Mothers is also the proud sponsor of parallel panels which take place each spring during the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations. This past March, our panels focused on the “Feminization of Poverty,” and “Women and HIV: A Virus Knows No Gender.” American Mothers will host a panel(s) discussion during the 59th session of the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations, March 9-20, 2015. Plan to join with us and have your voice heard!
American Mothers Global Coalition American Mothers, Inc. is leading a global coalition focused on improving the lives of mothers and families to promote intergenerational solidarity around the world. Through the collaborative efforts of international organizations and communities, the Global Motherhood Coalition offers a comprehensive approach to research, services, and action with the mission of promoting best practices in motherhood and improving the health and wellbeing of mothers and children.
Babies at the Border
Marisa Ugarte, Director of the Bilateral Safety Corridor Coalition (BSCC), which Babies at the Border is a part of, greets Joan Braitsch, President of American Mothers (AMI) at the BSCC National City, CA headquarters while donations of diapers, baby formula, and coloring books with crayons are delivered as part to AMI’s ongoing support for unaccompanied minors due to the immigration humanitarian crisis.
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American Mothers, Inc.® and Innocents at Risk, two national nonprofit 501(c) 3 organizations, partnered recently on a urgent project, Babies at the Border, to bring much needed supplies to children caught up in the current immigration crisis. Urgently needed were baby formula, diapers, underwear for children and crayons/ coloring books. Donation dollars were matched by a grant from the Whittier Trust, and all proceeds went directly to purchasing and delivering supplies to the US border in conjunction with the Bilateral Safety Corridor Coalition. “This is national crisis of children in need,” said Dianne Callister, 2010 Mother of the Year and American Mothers Board Member. “While our The American Mother Magazine
government is focused on the politics of this problem, we need to make sure these children have the basic necessities, and who better to make this happen than mothers? This exemplifies Moms helping Moms. Caring for children in need is something Moms do naturally,” Callister continued. According to Justice and State Department figures, in fiscal year 2013, over 23,000 children were apprehended at the border and remanded to US Custody. Due to a backlog in the court system, the U.S. has been overwhelmed with finding shelter for children entering the country illegally and has created an over-crowding crisis that has resulted in a lack of basic child welfare supplies.
Section Head |
For me, the value of participating in the convention and with the organization is that the awareness of the needs of mothers, once it takes root, does not leave within days, weeks or months. In this way, my life was changed and my commitment to this dynamic organization sealed. And new friends? That is the icing on the cake!
2014 NATIONAL ConferenCe
— Gerre Schwert, 2014 National Mother of the Year (Tennessee)
Join Us
April 23-26, 2015! The Willard Hotel, Washington DC For our Annual Conference:
Mothers Eyes on the World! Published by American Mothers, Inc.ÂŽ
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| Member Profile
Mom Strong, Profiles in Leadership
American Mothers is committed to telling more stories about the multitude of amazing moms who are making a positive impact in their community. Through our 365Mothers Initiative on our blog and in each issue of the American Mother magazine, we are profiling some incredible women who are out there in the trenches every day making a difference! Sharon Parker is just that member. A busy entrepreneur with 27 years of government service under her belt, Sharon serves as a Commissioner for the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture and serves as the President of Remembering Our Ancestors Synergistic Association (ROASA), an organization dedicated to empowering youth. A busy volunteer, Sharon also finds time to serve on the leadership team of the Maryland Association of American Mothers. We asked Sharon to share a little bit about herself and here is what this busy mom, community leader and entrepreneur had to say:
“Embrace the uniqueness of each child and love them unconditionally. Remember that they have to fiind their own way, so always listen and allow them to express themselves.”
Describe your typical day for us: My typical day is working on numerous projects with passionate people who love children unconditionally and who are doing everything in their power to help them live productive lives. When I’m not working with other organizations, I focus on ROASA’s youth program called RYES (Rise), which stands for ROASA Youth Empowerment Series, Inc. As a professional project manager (PM), I use my PM skills to organize youth community outreach events which serve to connect young people with professional entrepreneurs. I’m very concerned about the young generation and fear that they have lost all hope in adults who may not see the importance of giving back.
Where did you grow up? I was born in Prince Frederick, Maryland, located in Calvert County and grew up in the Washington metropolitan area (Clinton, Greenbelt, and Laurel, Maryland)
My family is... everything to me, from the youngest grand-baby to my oldest daughter. I was a teenage mom and at the age of 16 I felt like I had no future. Wise people often say, “Children don’t pick their parents.” As a child, I prayed that God saw favor in me and would lead me down the right path of success. My first daughter Tonique Parker, now 36, often complements me on
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The American Mother Magazine
Member Profile | my successes. When I became one of Maryland’s Commissioner’s for African American History and Culture and President for an organization called Remembering Our Ancestors Synergistic Association (ROASA), Inc, and even as a long time Federal employee for over 27 years, Tonique would often say, “mom, you came a long way” and I want to follow in your footsteps. Those words, “follow in your footsteps” have driven me everyday and keep me working very hard to achieve all my professional and personal dreams. My family’s values are deep and built on the shoulders of entrepreneurs who worked hard to make their next generation a little better than the last. As an entrepreneur, I will continue to work hard for my four daughters, and seven grandchildren.
What book is on your bedside table? “Living Under God’s Umbrella”, written by Mrs. Virginia E. Hayes Williams.
If you were having a dinner party and could invite anyone (dead or alive) who would be sitting around your table and why? My mother who passed away in 2010, my grandmother and grandfather (on both sides) who passed away before I was born, Mrs. Virginia E. Hayes Williams, Sojourner Truth, and Mary McCloud Bethune. I love wise people who truly understand the power in being people together to better their community.
If you could do it all over again… what would you do differently?
Aside from being a mom, do you volunteer I believe every life situation prepares you for or participate in something special to you? a journey to greatness, good or bad. But if I Although my daughters are grown and have their own children now, I make it my mission to volunteer for other organizations and businesses that are special and sharing of other people’s stories. History is very important to me, and volunteering with organizations like Black in Government (BIG), National Center for Children and Families, The Washington Area Women’s Foundation, The Black Women’s Health Imperative organization, and The Greater Washington National Urban League, numerous senior wellness centers, and school programs have really allowed me to live in my purpose. When I’m not volunteering, I make it my business to have my grandchildren volunteer. Young people are very special to me, and my passion is to inspire to learn from strong and caring people who want to give back.
had to choose something, I would listen to my mother more, when she was trying to educate me about my history.
Best thing about being a mom… is when I look in the eyes of my children, I see myself, a loving and kind person. So many people have told me that they love my children’s personality...that they are kind, loving, respectful, and fun to be around. The feeling that you have done something right as a mom is like no other feeling, especially when you have 4 daughters. In order to gain the respect of your children, you have to love them unconditionally, but also be strong in the process.
Know A Mother We Should Profile? We’d love to share her story over on the blog as part of our 365Mothers Initiative. Our world is full of a wide variety of moms who are making a positive difference, and we’re telling their stories every day, 365 days a year over on americanmothersblog.com. Check it out! Even better, share your story with us! Just email mothers365@ gmail.com
What are you most passionate about when it comes to being a mom? I’m passionate about assuring that my children love themselves. I want them to always remember that they must find their own character and not depend on others to tell them what they should or should not be.
What advice would you give a new mom? Embrace the uniqueness of each child and love them unconditionally. Remember that they have to find their own way, so always listen and allow them to express themselves.
Published by American Mothers, Inc.®
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| Get Involved
Mother
What My Means to Me By Hrilina Ramrakhiani, La * Winner of the 2014 National 5th Grade Essay Contest
My Mom is my Global Positioning System (GPS). Like a GPS, she guides me, and tells me how to avoid obstacles, and if for any reason I take a wrong turn, my GPS is there to “recalculate” me (put me back on the right track)! Just like a GPS, she never lets me lose sight of my destination (goal). In a lot of ways, my Mom is much better than a GPS. She encourages me to think and use my own brain. My Mom is courageous, caring, loving, pretty, funny, smart, helpful, and fun beyond belief! But best of all, she is my Mom, the one and only, and I love her very much!
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Do You Know a
5th
grader?
Millions of children are back in school, and American Mothers is announcing the start of the 2015 National Fifth Grade Essay Contest. A handwritten essay of 150 words on “What My Mother Means to Me” encourages students from around the country to celebrate their mothers and the important role moms play in their lives. The contest is open to all fifth graders (or equivalent education level), and students may enter their state competition individually or as a class project. Entries are being accepted now through January 15, 2015 when each state selects their essay to be entered in the national competition. Monetary prizes, and an invitation to the AMI National Convention to accept their award, will be given to the top three essay winners. Winning State Essays will be announced on February 15 and winning National Essays on March 15. Parents or teachers who would like their fifth grader’s class to participate are asked to contact info@americanmothers.org or visit www.americanmothers.org for complete rules and information. – Kim Stevenson National Literacy Chairman
The American Mother Magazine
Join Us |
Join Us! American Mothers is making a difference and our membership is growing! In honor of the 100th anniversary of Mother’s Day, American Mothers launched a new FREE membership. This new membership option was introduced in April of this year and subsequently incited a tremendous response. Our membership is growing and it is exciting to see the mission, vision and values of American Mothers welcome more women into our special organization! In May, American Mothers also launched the I Heart Mom membership drive and fundraiser by partnering with Amazon.com and their affiliate network. Additional drives and fundraising opportunities will be introduced throughout 2014. American Mothers is actively utilizing the many online opportunities to strengthen the organization and improve the lives of mothers in the United States and around the world. The amazing women who are a part of American Mothers continue to be the strength and foundation of our organization. One of the best things you can do as a Member of American Mothers is to spread the word. You all have an immense network of friends, family, colleagues and associates that should be part of American Mothers and the great work we are engaged in. Use the images and posts you find through our social media to spread our message and collectively we can continue to make a difference as we “organize maternal energy for positive change”. It is a great time to be a part of American Mothers! Join with us to make a positive difference! — Jennifer M. Larsen, Membership Chairman
Membership Options Membership Options
Cost
Member Benefits
Member
Free
Access to E-Newsletters, AMI Social Media, and local/national events
Friend of American Mothers
$30.00
Additional benefits include: Mom2Mom Magazine, Chapter Guides, Training and Access to AMI resource materials available through the login area of our National Website
Legacy of Giving
Varies
Honors & Memorial, Sponsorships, Lifetime Memberships
Published by American Mothers, Inc.®
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| Financial Review
Financial Review American Mothers continues its solid financial footing with a strong Endowment Fund and targeted spending. The National Board of Directors, complete with an elected treasurer and Endowment Chair, oversees the fiscal health of this national 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization. The investment firm of Morgan Stanley, along with our professional staff and CPA, assure that American Mothers benefits from conservative and informed financial management. Major annual expenses include the National Conference which fulfills our historic goal of Honoring Mothers, and gives these inspiring women an opportunity to network and consider critical topics to mothers with nationally recognized experts. Programming costs and disbursements to State Associations are also part of our major annual expenses. The Income Summary illustrates that the majority of income is supplied by earnings from American Mothers Endowment Fund. We are indebted to visionary women who established
the Fund in 1957, and to all who contribute to its growth through our Lifetime Membership initiative and the Honors and Memorials program. Expenses of American Mothers are offset by income from the Annual Convention, membership dues, donations and annual interest earned from the Endowment Fund investments. The Expense Summary illustrates that the vast majority of funding is directed to the National Convention and other programs to meet the needs of mothers and children across the country and Puerto Rico. What is also important to note, while not shown on this chart, is a strong culture of volunteer commitment in American Mothers where members and leaders absorb significant expenses including travel to meetings and donation of resources to stretch the programming funds of American Mothers. Our members are committed to the mission of championing women at home, at work, and in the world.
Thank You to Our Generous Donors! Underwriting Sponsor
Lifetime Members
Express Personnel Services
Afton Alder Shirley Baacus Forrest Baker Helen and James Bean Irene Blore Della Mae Bork Marcia Van Zitter Borja Joan Braitsch Connell Branan Susan Brown Dianne Callister Sonya Carson, MD GeNeil Cheney Mary Compton Virginia Cook Bertha Cooper Jean Crouch Betty Daudt Enid Davis
Visionary Barbara and Ralph Thompson CVS Honor NYC Jesse Ball DuPont Foundation Duane Nelson Estate The Singer Foundation The Whittier Foundation
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The American Mother Magazine
Amanda DuPont Linda Fiterman Marcia Ford Shirley Foutz Lee Frogley Peggy Gainer Vicki Gerlach Jane Griffith Dorothy Hammert Sue Hickenlooper Raelene Hill Esther Kimberling Thelma Kouzes Dorothy Lee Helen Leon Barbara Jean Loar Ruth Manning Mary Martin Lucinda McArton
Financial Review | Income Summary n Endowment Fund (66%) n Annual Convention Income (15%) n Program Income (14%)
n Direct Support & Other Income (5%)
TOTAL INCOME: $179,346.66
Expense Summary n Convention Expenses (35%) n Program Expenses (19%) n Executive Director (18%) n Operations (18%)
n Awards & Other Expenses (5%) n Board Expenses (3%) n Miscellaneous (2%)
TOTAL EXPENSE: $138,626.15
Legacy Givers Joy Weller Miller Suzie Owens JaLynn Prince Jean Pryor Elba Rivera Ruiz Deen Day Smith Sanders Anna Schwab Lois Schwab Michelle Schwab Renee Smith Virginia Spurgin Lela Sullivan Deanne Taylor Ruth Ann Warner Gwen Webb Clemmie Webber Mollie and Henry Wolthuis Elizabeth Wright Linda Zenger
Becky La Dage Alexander Maria Almabert Arizona Association Rev. Louise Battle Sherri Boyd Joan Braitsch Dianne Callister Stephen Callister Genevieve Champana Dr. Ruby Cheves DC Metro Area Association Amanda DuPont Georgia Association Michelle Lehnardt The Minchey Family Ruth Manning New Hampshire Association North Dakota Association Sarah Passey Published by American Mothers, Inc.速
Puerto Rico Association Gail Rost Joyce Stevens Lela Sullivan Deanne Taylor Kathy Walker Sabrina Wisher
Mom to Mom Scholarship Fund Joan Braitsch Dianne Callister Genevieve Champana Shelia Monke Jan Schiferl Darcy Ure
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2015 AMERICAN MOTHERS ANNUAL CONFERENCE
MOTHERS EYES ON THE
W RLD
AMERICANMOTHERS.ORG
APRIL 23-26, 2015 THE WILLARD HOTEL WASHINGTON DC