FLINT, MI — On Friday, Jan. 26, Mothers of Joy Institute for Parenting and Family Wellness, Inc. will be at Metro Community Development in Flint, 1164 Robert T. Longway, Suite D & E. The grand opening was held.
A variety of community members were on hand to share in the occasion, from expectant mothers and medical professionals to family members and special friends of Founder and Executive Director Siarize Stapleton.
The Flint native is an advocate for families with children of all abilities and ages. Her vision began over 20 years ago for her both personally and professionally as a first-time mother and wife to an early childhood educator and case management trainee.
Stapleton holds a series of certifications, including Child Development Associate (CDA), a nationally recognized designation for early childhood education professionals. She is also currently pursuing her bachelor's degree. She is a mother, pastor, entrepreneur, community partner, Adversity in Childhood Experiences (ACE) coach, author, advocate, and mentor.
Mothers of Joy Institute was founded in 2020 during the COVID-19 global pandemic with the aim of comforting adults and children during a highly stressful time. “At the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, I would park in the hospital parking lot and stay in my car and pray for the hospital staff and patients,” Stapleton said.
The nonprofit is providing new family safe spaces for community members at Metro Community Development. According to a Facebook post from the Mothers of Joy Institute, “A safe space is a place where people feel safe and feel free to express themselves without fear of judgment or prejudice, whether it's in a quiet corner or between parents and children. It’s like an emotional space.”
Calm gray walls, comfortable animal blankets, cozy rooms, and a peaceful environment provide a way for participants to feel safe when entering the building. For adults, this is an opportunity to hone parenting skills by incorporating mindfulness, understanding adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and using suggestions for best practices for raising healthy children.
Parenting has its successes and challenges, and the Mothers of Joy Institute is a family resource center for community members to improve problem-solving skills and develop strategies with their children. Family Safe Space is the driving force behind a new Rx Kids program for families currently residing in the City of Flint.
The Mothers of Joy Institute provided an opportunity to educate community members about the purpose of a safe space for both adults and children at the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library in December 2023. Stapleton’s presentation included an overview of safe spaces, available resources and community partnerships. This journey is possible.
For more information about Mothers of Joy Institute for Parenting Wellness, Inc., Family Safe Spaces, and upcoming classes, visit mothersinstituteparentingwell.com.
Also, find the organization on Facebook.
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