Jones Co. Moms offers support, socialization

     “A support network of mothers, for mothers and children of all ages.”

     That is the motto of the countywide, non-denominational group called Jones County Moms.

     Their goal is to “create an opportunity for moms of all ages and backgrounds to come together and enjoy a couple of child-free hours of adult interaction. The children are also given an opportunity to enjoy playing with other children.”

     Jones County Moms began in 2007 when seven mothers came together for companionship. Some were new to the Monticello community, some were simply looking to form friendships with those they had something in common.

     This became the local charter chapter of Jones County MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers). The group initially met at First Presbyterian Church in Monticello until a devastating fire in 2008. They then found a new home, meeting at Wayne Zion Lutheran Church outside Monticello.

     Today, the group is now known as Jones County Moms, with mothers from all walks of life with children of any age looking to get involved.

     Marilyn Hanna, Monticello, serves as the group’s “mentor mom,” a title she quite enjoys. She’s at the meetings and makes herself available to talk to should a mom need extra advice or words of encouragement of wisdom.

     Hanna said if it weren’t for past mentor moms and volunteers, Jones County Moms would cease to exist.

     Hanna explained when her family moved to the area 40-plus years ago with two young children, “we felt alone.” She said as transplants, which many of the Jones County Moms are, you don’t know anyone.

     “So we started a playgroup,” Hanna said, with young children playing with others in the neighborhood.

     Jones County Moms is much like a giant playgroup where both the moms and children come together.

     “It’s important to form those connections,” urged Hanna. “We need to show support here.”

     Once her own daughters had children of their own, they formed mom groups as well.

     Hanna said Jones County Moms is like a support group.

     April Isaacson, of Anamosa, is the mom of twin boys, with another baby on the way. She said while the group is not affiliated with any church in the area, it is a Christian-based organization.

     “Any mom is welcome,” offered Hanna.

     “Moms in all stages of motherhood,” added Isaacson.

     Kristy Hoeger described Jones County Moms as an inclusive group that’s not exclusive. All are welcome.

     The group meets during the school year, from September through May. The meetings are held on the second Thursday of the month from 9-11 a.m. at Wayne Zion Church. Their first meeting will be held on Thursday, Sept. 14.

     While the moms are having their own reprieve, childcare is always provided by area church volunteers.

     “We’re always looking for more volunteers,” suggested Isaacson. “It gives us moms two hours of child-free time.”

     “We hope to have several volunteers,” Hanna added.

     Every month, Jones County Moms has a different theme to their gathering. September is “Bring A Friend Month,” encouraging current members to bring someone along.

     “We socialize, catch up, and meet new people,” said Isaacson. She said some of the moms don’t see one another much, so it gives everyone a chance to catch up.

     In October, Rachel Williams with Jones County Community Partnerships for Protecting Children will speak about her organization, as well as other groups/programs in the area focused on children and families.

     Each gathering also includes a craft/activity, food, and a monthly devotion.

     Other meeting topics have included: child psychology, financial planning, nutrition, gardening, etc.

     “We cover a wide range of topics,” said Isaacson.

     The cost to join Jones County Moms is just $25. Throughout the course of the season, the members decide which local missions/charities they wish to donate the money.

     “It’s great because it all stays local,” said Hoeger.

     In the past, they’ve also assisted area families in need.

     Hilary Hogan said the reason she got involved in Jones County Moms was to simply meet other moms in the area.

     “It gave me the chance to get out of the house and socialize,” she said.

     “It’s nice to get out of the house sometimes,” said Hoeger.

     Isaacson said some of the moms have now become her closest friends outside of the group.

     “We make play dates for our children outside of the regular meetings,” said Hogan.

     The moms have also made it a point to do group activities such as going to local pumpkin patches and attending the Great Jones County Fair.

     “Many have developed strong friendships through this (group),” said Hanna.

     You can find out more about Jones County Moms by visiting their Facebook page: Jones County Moms Member Page. You can also e-mail: JonesCoMoms@gmail.com.