Making a difference

For a while now I have been wanting to do something to make a difference. I hear of all the places where a difference could be made but I have often thought “I can’t do that”, “How can I possibly make a difference there” or even “oh I am sure someone else will do that”. I am sure many of us have thought or felt that way before. I felt the urge to do something but always felt too insignificant to really make a difference.

A couple of months ago I read this post by Tracy. I was so moved that I just had to get in touch with her. She is a busy, working mom and here she is making a difference. Not just thinking about but actually doing it. After a few email exchanges she assured me that I can do it. She gave me some great advice and tips and encouraged me. I have been following her progress and I see the difference she is making. I am finally ready to make a difference myself

I am not a teen mom and I can’t for one minute imagine how hard it must be but Tracy said something in the same blog post that really caught my attention. it is something I firmly believe in. I quote:

“ Young moms are often ostracised completely, or more subtly excluded from the usual “moms and tots” kind of activities. Feeling alone as a first time mom can be devastating, especially if you’re a teenager who may have lost many of her friends as well.

And as I’ve said a GAZILLION times: A mom who feels like she’s doing a good and important job, who’s mothering is VALUED by her family and community – will always be better for her children.“- Tracy Engelbrecht

Isn’t that profound and absolutely true?

So here is the deal. Tracy and I have sort of teamed up and I am going to be organising a Young/Teen Mom Support Group in our area. It is something I think is so important and will make such a huge difference. Not only for these moms but for their children in the long run as well. I am going to start with just a get together with snacks to chat and get to know each other. The goal is to grow this little group into something much bigger. I want to create support for moms in every aspect. Both Tracy and I have similar goals for these groups.

• We want to be able to offer practical support like food hampers (for the family), second hand baby clothes and toys, toiletries, nappies and even bottles etc.
• We want to offer them information. Information about their children, schooling and education. Teaching them skills and helping with employment opportunities.
• We want to offer them guidance, inspire and empower them. We want to get people to come and talk about everything from baby care to career options.
• We want to help with child care so that they have the opportunity to work or go to school and study.
• We want to offer a place where they can just be them. Where they can talk about their problems or share their joys. Ask for or give advice.
• and way way more!!!

I am really passionate about this and have started handing out flyers and putting up notices. My most important task right now is to get the word out. I do want to be prepared however so I am trying really hard to get the other aspects of it lined up as well. Here dear friends is where I am going to ask for your help. There are a few things I can use your help with.

• Please help me get the word out. If you are someone or know someone that could use a group like this please get in touch with me. I don’t need a full house to get started but the more people we can reach the better.
• I could really use some help with donations. Second hand clothes and toys. Toiletries. Food. Snacks and activities for the kiddies at the meetings. If you are someone who would like to come and talk to the ladies about something please get in touch. I know it is alot to ask when everyone is feeling the pinch. If I could manage to do this all out of my own pocket I absolutely would but there is just no way I can. Even the littlest bit will make a difference.

So please if you can help in any way please let me know. If you can tell just one person I am sure the word will get to the young moms.

I am in the Durban area. You can contact me on [email] Honeyza@me.com

If you are in the Cape area and could possibly help Tracy please follow the link to her blog or mail her on tracy@tracyengelbrecht.com.

I will update here as soon as the ball gets rolling!

Thank you SO much!