​The Mentor Moms Network for Blossom Moms

Blossom CARES. We provide:
      Community
      Awareness
      Resources, and
      Emotional
​      Support

​One way for us to show we care is through our new program, The Mentor Moms Network for Blossom Moms.

​This FREE program starts now!

How Does this Program Work?

"Blossom Moms” will receive 1-on-1 peer support* during the pregnancy and/or postpartum period from trained "Mentor Mom" volunteers. Peer support includes listening, understanding, empathy, companionship and friendship. 

Blossom will match a Mentor Mom with a Blossom Mom based on their responses to questionnaires. They will connect for:
  • at least 6 months, about 2-3 times/week
  • however they mutually agree—texts, phone calls, by video, in-person.
​For more information, please read on! ​
*Peer support is NOT medical advice nor therapy. This program is not appropriate for moms in crisis or those experiencing thoughts of harming oneself or others. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text the word HOME to 741741 to reach the National Crisis Text Line, or go to your nearest emergency room. 

Should I Participate in this Program?

Do you share Blossom's passion about the importance of community and maternal mental health? Can you connect for about an 1 hour per week? This program may be for you!
  • Are you an experienced mom who remembers what it's like to adapt to the challenges that parenthood brings?
  • Can you remember feeling low, guilty or perhaps depressed while pregnant or after you gave birth?
    Then you might be the Mentor Mom who could be a sounding board for a new or new-again mother who needs unbiased peer support.​
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Marnie Levenson (MA, LPCC, PMH-C), a Maternal Mental Health Therapist, is volunteering her time to provide training for Mentor Moms. ​
  • Are you an expectant or new mom who is secretly struggling with feelings of sadness, isolation or low self-confidence? Or do you plan to become pregnant and have concerns?
  • Do you have difficulty getting out the door or find it hard to share your feelings with your partner, friends or family because you don't want to worry anyone, or for another known or uncertain reason?
    Register to be a Blossom Mom to receive support from a peer who has had similar feelings.
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​Fundraising and Volunteer Coordinator, Cindy Chow, will coordinate the Mentor Mom Network.

Become a Mentor Mom

As a mentor, you can be that non-judgmental listener for another mom, like the new mom you once were. Be there to support a new or new-again mom, as a caring peer who understands what women experience during pregnancy and parenthood. Show moms they're not alone by relating, listening and reassuring them that their feelings, thoughts and concerns are valid. Provide support by giving them someone to text with or talk to. 
These are the steps to become a mentor: 
  1. Fill out a Mentor Mom application and submit.
  2. Once your application is reviewed, we will schedule a phone interview to clarify roles and responsibilities.
  3. You will be notified about your approval status as a Mentor Mom. If approved, you will be invited to a live Mentor Training session where role plays, emergency protocols and other topics are discussed.
  4. Review and sign a Mentor Mom Network Agreement.
  5. You will be matched with a Blossom mom and can begin your peer relationship!
    If you know someone else who would be a good Mentor Mom candidate, please reach out!    ​

Register as a Blossom Mom
Sometimes, it may be easier to share your thoughts and concerns with someone who is not already in your family or friendship circle. You can share your thoughts with another mom--someone who has been there and who shares something in common with you— a favorite activity, an industry you both work in, or someone, like you, who is also new to the Bay Area, to name a few examples. We'll match you with someone who will listen without judgment or bias.
These are the steps to receive support from a Mentor Mom:
  1. ​Fill out a Blossom Mom application and submit.
  2. Once your application is reviewed, we may schedule a phone call to get to know you and answer any questions you may have. If you prefer texts, that works too!
  3. Attend an optional orientation, depending on interest levels of other Blossom Moms.
  4. Review and sign a Mentor Mom Network Agreement.
  5. You will be matched with a Mentor Mom and can begin your peer relationship! Blossom Moms will be matched on a first-come first-served basis. If demand exceeds Mentor Moms, you will be provided with alternate avenues for short-term support until a Mentor is available.​
For more information, contact Cindy at mentormoms@blossombirthandfamily.org. 
​This program is FREE to Blossom Moms. Blossom Birth Services is a 501 c(3) nonprofit. Donations are welcome to help ensure that this program can remain free of charge.​