PROJECTS & CHARITY
GLOBAL LESSONS
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For over a decade I was an Au Pair Specialist and cultural exchange expert in the Bay Area. I worked with hundreds of families locally and throughout the country and helped place over 500 au pairs with families. I took pride in helping them get to know each other, and understand the rewards and challenges of this childcare exchange program. Through my commitment in building these global communities, and supporting participants to embody the Mommymates philosophy of focusing on our human similarities, while appreciating our unique differences, I witnessed first hand what this program could do for families who were willing to open their doors to a world of cultural exchange, and for au pairs who were brave enough to step into another culture.
HAIR DONATIONS
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​Inspired by a couple of friends that had alopecia, I decided to start donating my hair. When my girls discovered they had hair long enough to donate, they joined in the fun. It typically takes 60 inches of hair, or six 8-10 inch donations, just to make one wig. One time, we got a group of kids together and donated 62 inches of hair in order to make a wig. To date, Victoria has donated 3 times, Natalie has donated 4 times, and I have donated 4 times. This MommyMates activity is not for everyone, but if you are open to it, is a very rewarding, empowering experience.
NATALIE'S CORNER
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​Natalie grew up loving to read and to hang out with her friends. One of the first ways she decided to be a MommyMate was to raise money by setting up a neighborhood lemonade stand, and then use that money to buy books for her school. Her hope was to help her teachers have the resources to provide all her classmates the access to books like she had. In 6th grade, Natalie earned the Project Cornerstone "Trailblazer" award for implementing a Student Bucket Club at her elementary school. This student lead organization was all about modeling inclusion through fun, student lead activities for the entire school. Throughout her middle school years and into high school, Natalie has continued to be a MommyMate through her volunteer service at the local humane society and animal farm. With the help of her family, she has become a foster parent for puppies and dogs in need. Meet some of our past foster dogs...
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NEIGHBORHOOD BEAUTIFICATION
& COMMUNITY OUTREACH
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​Next time you are walking your dogs or outside with your kids, consider being a MommyMate in your own neighborhood. Disposing and recycling litter properly, is one of the easiest ways to be a MommyMate. Unfortunately litter is everywhere. This is a great opportunity to model that even though you did not create the litter, you have the power to create a more beautiful space. While you are out and about, pick up that piece of trash. Beautify your space by smiling and making eye contact with the people around you, or get involved with your favorite charity, become a coach or a leader in your community. Don't wait for tomorrow to share your gifts. Acts of kindness, both big and small, have a ripple effect. There are so many ways to be a MommyMate...go out and find one that works for you!
VICTORIA'S CORNER
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​Since Victoria was little, she has been coming up with ways to make a positive impact on our planet and the people on it. When she was just 8 years old she raised over $3500 for an orphanage in Poland, and the following year was consequently awarded a $1200 grant for underprivileged children to participate in a dance program. This grant was awarded annually for a 4-year period, which continued to inspire her to want to be a MommyMate to others. When she turned 13, she used her talents in singing and songwriting to make an album and then donate the proceeds back to charities that supported helping children in need, animals in need, and promoting anti-bullying messages. Now she teaches guitar and offers free lessons to underserved children. Check out her latest album and the other activities she is doing to be a MommyMate... www.victoriasguitarlessons.com
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THE 3 S's
SAVE, SPEND, SHARE
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​For every dollar, we advocate teaching our children about a "save, spend, share" philosophy. First, have them designate an amount to put away for savings. Then with the money that is left, decide what you are going to spend and what they are going to share. We also help them explore philanthropic options that support their interests. Be a MommyMate by sharing with yourself and others.