My personal inspiration is my own mom; she prompted the idea to host my first Mom’s Mingle event in a tiny restaurant for moms of kids with special needs in 2012. 

What was intended to be a one-time Mom’s Mingle was requested from other moms wishing to have one in their city, so it grew into an annual event, gradually growing across 7 cities for 1000+ moms annually. 

But the vision to do more did grow and in 2020 when myself and three other amazing women, all loving someone with special needs, combined our charitable efforts to create Labeled & Loved with the mission to care for the caregivers, by bringing hope, support, community & resources. 

Our 1st Annual Weekend Retreat was a huge success focusing on one purpose, to love the caregiver.  

And love they felt! Some moms’ shared this was their first trip away, others shared that it was the first time they had ever met another parent with a child having a similar diagnosis or challenge, other moms who had only met online connected for the first time in person.

These moms spent the weekend learning together in the big session, hugging & supporting each other in small groups & laughing together in fun breakout activities all designed to create community & friendship. Our message of “you are not alone” was seen as these women circled around each other. 

To learn more about resources & support for caregivers of special needs please visit Labeled & Loved and be sure to join our upcoming Virtual Mom’s Mingle on November 9th.