Director's Corner

The joys of Community, including participation and volunteering, are what make MSN tick. As we write this, massive efforts are underway by volunteers who have benefitted from this organization to keep the doors open on our resource center and provide some restructuring at the foundation level. Keep your eyes and ears open for exciting announcements regarding the future of the organization, which already is entering its 18th year in existence.

As much as we depend on finding friendship, education, and support, we depend on each other to keep the organization running. As part of a group we have the benefit and responsibility of being able to join in, participate and volunteer.

Membership, participation, camaraderie, action are as important now as they ever have been. Whatever current efforts lead to, there will remain a network of families spanning back almost two decades who are committed to this organization at their own level of comfort and ability. There will be support, education, and resources.

We hope that you count yourselves among our committed families.

MSN is run by volunteers just like you. Our Board of Directors consists of moms who meet twice a month to decide what guidelines and rules should be made, what fundraisers to organize, and what groups and classes should be held. All of our classes are facilitated by volunteers from MSN or from our greater Sacramento community, and our groups are led by MSN members.

In fact, hundred of hours are shared every month by moms who want to pitch in and make something positive happen for themselves and their children. They want to learn more about parenting styles, techniques and philosophies, and many volunteers want to share what they’ve learned either from their formal education or their own heart-felt experience.

But you don’t have to be on the board or facilitating a group to be a vital part of this community. Participation, together with your very important membership dues, keep our doors open, expenses paid, and classes and groups humming.

Yes. We’re asking for money. Did you know it takes almost $1,500/month for basic expenses, including monthly rent, utilities and phone just to keep the doors open? This calculates to 25 new or renewed members every month to just stay alive, and without it, the organization is scrambling to make ends meet.

A copy of the quarterly newsletter is sent to each member’s home and other benefits of paying dues to MSN include a 10% discount in our Moonfaeries and Great Forest Toys stores, discounts for certain classes and events, the invitation to borrow books from our library, an online discussion group through Big Tent, and more. But most importantly, you’ll get the good feeling of being part of an important mothering group that wants you to participate, volunteer and join in making a positive difference for yours and other families and children in Sacramento.

Spring is a time for renewal. Renew your commitment to MSN today by joining our supporting membership and making a financial contribution. We’re sure you’ll experience a renewed sense of community through education and support this Spring.