Had a long overdue visit this week with Linda Mercner, Executive Director of YoungMoms, Kennett Square. Linda took over the position from founder Lisa McMain in 2014, just as I was beginning a new project with YoungMoms funded by a Leeway Art & Change Grant.

Executive Director, Linda Mercner of Young Moms at her Kennett Square, PA office with sculpture and wall art by YoungMoms

Executive Director, Linda Mercner of Young Moms at her Kennett Square, PA office with sculpture and wall art by YoungMoms

Linda shared with me how perfect it was that when she took on the role as director, we were in the midst of our weekly art sessions. It gave her an opportunity to transition into the position while getting to know the girls. I, too, loved getting to know the girls- many whom are now on the Peer Advisory Board, and Bridget Phillips, one of the mothers who I worked with on our very first project 6 years ago is now married, a nurse, and on the YoungMoms Board of Directors. Thania Ruiz, who created the sculpture in the picture above 3 years ago, paints with me at our Painting Studio Workshops.

YoungMoms is an invaluable support system for these young women offering mentoring, community and support as they navigate the challenges of pregnancy and motherhood, often with limited financial and emotional means. Working with the young women, staff and volunteers has also been a gift in my life. Many of us stay in touch through social media. I love seeing their accomplishments, their children grow and watching them development into wonderful women and mothers.

I miss working with them.

YoungMoms 4th Annual Brunch with the YoungMoms and their sculptures of noteworthy women

YoungMoms 4th Annual Brunch with the YoungMoms and their sculptures of noteworthy women

The good news is that Linda and I will be meeting next month with some of the YoungMoms who have graduated to the Advisory Board to brainstorm on new project ideas moving forward.

Everyone Needs a Break Sometimes, Art print from Butterfly Kisses and Wishes on Wings, ©McVicker&Hersh,LLC

Everyone Needs a Break Sometimes, Art print from Butterfly Kisses and Wishes on Wings, ©McVicker&Hersh,LLC

In the meantime, I dropped off a framed art print- Everyone Needs a Break, from our Butterfly Kisses Book,  my cousin Ellen McVicker and I are donating for the YoungMom’s 5th Annual Brunch on Saturday, April 12, 2016 at the Garage Community & Youth Center in Kennett Square,PA.

 

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