It Takes a Village
The old adage, “it takes a village to raise a child,” has been used time and again to describe the important role the community plays in the upbringing of children. And it’s true. Communities that are rich in resources such as quality childcare, after-school programs, food assistance, and more, build environments where children can grow up healthy and secure. The “village” however, isn’t just beneficial to the children. Parents who feel supported by their community, who have access to the resources they need, and who know they have someone to turn to in a crisis are better equipped to provide a safe, nurturing home for their children.
Nurture the Next knows that when businesses, faith centers, local civic groups, and individuals are all actively supporting families with young children, it results in children who are healthier and happier, parents who are less stressed and more engaged with their children, and communities that are stronger and more prosperous.
So where can you plug in? Maybe you’re a parent who remembers how incredibly isolating those first few years of parenthood can be. Maybe you’re a business owner who recognizes that investing in young families is an investment in the future of your company, your community, and society. Maybe you’re a faith leader who wants families in your community to know that they have a place to turn when they have a need. Or maybe you’re someone who just wants to help make your community more safe, more supportive, and ultimately, a better place to live. Nurture the Next has volunteer opportunities that align with all these perspectives and more.
Nurture TN is our mentoring program that combines technology with experienced mothers who help new moms access information and offer parenting support. According to Rachel Wright, the Volunteer Coordinator at Nurture the Next, these more experienced mentors “can get their moms connected with important resources but are also a sounding board and source of support.” Communicating through texting, mentors and new moms build trusting relationships. As a result, new moms feel comfortable asking for what they need, whether it’s baby formula, a safe place for the baby to sleep, or simply a listening ear. If you are a mother who would like to connect with new moms and give them the support they so desperately need, you can apply here.
Our in-home support program works one-on-one with parents and babies to strengthen their bond, increase knowledge of child development, and build protective factors that lessen the likelihood of children being abused or neglected. Cornerstone United Methodist Church in Smyrna, TN recently hosted a parent connection event for our enrolled families in Rutherford and Wilson Counties. “It’s incredibly important to us that young families in our community know we are here to support them,” said Lindsey Johnson, who helped coordinate the event. “Providing a space for a couple of hours where kids can play, parents can connect – and maybe get a plate of food while not also juggling a baby – it’s an easy yes for us.” Bounce houses, sensory play, music, food, and fun made a memorable day for both the families and volunteers.
Local organizations have already recognized the importance of investing in families within the community. With the help of our volunteer board members, businesses like HCA, LBMC, and Caterpillar Financial have partnered with us not only financially, but also by hosting diaper drives and participating in service days, where their employees have provided essential support to our home visiting teams.
When we surround young families with care, compassion, and encouragement, their challenges will seem more possible to overcome. Bit by bit, the stress they have been carrying will get a little lighter. And the ones who benefit the most are the children. When parents have the resources they need, they can build homes that are safe and stable, foster relationships with their children that are loving and nurturing, and set them up for a lifetime of success. You can learn more about how to support families in your community by visiting our Volunteer page.