FLINT, Michigan — The grand opening of the Mothers of Joy Institute for Parenting and Family Wellness, Inc. took place on Friday, Jan. 26, at the Metro Community Development located at 1164 Robert T. Longway, Suite D & E in Flint.
A diverse group of attendees, including expecting mothers, medical professionals, family members, and close friends of Founder/Executive Director Shearese Stapleton, gathered to commemorate the occasion.
Hailing from Flint, Stapleton is a passionate advocate for families with children of all abilities and age groups. Her journey began more than two decades ago, blending personal experiences as a first-time mother and spouse to an early childhood educator and case management trainee.
Stapleton has acquired various certifications, including a nationally recognized Child Development Associate (CDA) credential for early childhood professionals, and is currently working towards her Bachelor’s degree. Beyond her roles as a mother and pastor, she is also an entrepreneur, community collaborator, Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) coach, author, advocate, and mentor.
Established in 2020 amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Mothers of Joy Institute aims to provide solace to individuals of all ages during challenging times. Stapleton shared, “At the onset of COVID, I would park at the hospital, stay in my car, and pray for the well-being of healthcare workers and patients.”
The nonprofit organization introduces a new Family Safe Space at the Metro Community Development, defined as a welcoming environment where individuals can freely express themselves without fear of judgment. This space, as described in a Mothers of Joy Institute Facebook post, includes calming gray walls, cozy animal blankets, and a serene atmosphere to promote a sense of security for all participants.
The initiative offers adults an avenue to enhance their parenting skills by emphasizing mindfulness, understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and implementing best practices in child-rearing. Parenthood, with its blend of triumphs and hurdles, finds support in the Mothers of Joy Institute—a hub for community members to enhance their problem-solving abilities in raising healthy children. The Family Safe Space also champions the new Rx Kids program tailored for Flint residents.
In December 2023, Mothers of Joy Institute conducted an educational session at the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library, where Stapleton shed light on the significance of safe spaces for both adults and children. The presentation encompassed an overview of safe space concepts, available resources, and the collaborative efforts that paved the way for this impactful journey.