Moms connect through local group
By Sylvie Belmond belmond@theacorn.com

A group of local mothers formed the Moorpark Moms Connection in 1998 to organize social activities geared for parents with young children.

According to club leaders, the nonprofit, nondenominational group is dedicated to providing support, activities, and opportunities for community involvement for its members.

Group members organize playgroups and outings that help moms and children get out of the house and meet other parents and tots. Members pay a $36 annual fee. Proceeds are used for holiday parties and to support charity work in the community.

Moorpark and the surrounding areas offer many parks, a nice library and proximity to the beach and several theme parks, said Clare Forbes-Black, vice-president of membership for the Moms Connection, which currently has about 40 members.

Forbes-Black moved to Moorpark from England about two years ago and joined the city's moms' group to meet other Moorpark parents.

"Now I have a great group of friends, thanks to my involvement with the club," she said.

Members of the group often form long-lasting friendships as they meet for playgroups, gather for stroller walks around town or participate in charitable activities.

Moms Connection members adopt families, providing meals and food baskets and other basic necessities to them in times of need. The group also prepares home-made meals to new mothers and their families.

Although the club is also open to working parents, most members are stay-at-home moms because the activities usually take place during the day, said Forbes-Black, who has two young children.

"We don't have any fathers in the group but they are welcome to join," she said.

"We usually have park days, farm visits, family picnics and craft activities and we have great holiday parties."

The moms also arrange evening outings to spend time with other adults without distractions, Forbes-Black said.

The group will host a Christmas party featuring songs, stories, crafts and a visit from Santa from 4 to 6 p.m. Tues., Dec. 18.

New and prospective members are welcome to attend, said Forbes-Black, but an RSVP must be made at (805) 9901437 beforehand to get location information and to ensure there's enough food for everyone.