MOMS Club

Overview

MOMS Club is a nonprofit organization in the United States, with the acronym MOMS standing for Moms Offering Moms Support. The organization is designed to provide support to stay-at-home mothers by fostering a sense of community and facilitating activities for both mothers and their children.

History

The MOMS Club was founded in 1985 by Mary James, a stay-at-home mother who sought to create an environment where mothers could connect with each other and engage their children in social activities. Initially starting in California, the organization quickly expanded across the United States and internationally due to its popularity and effectiveness in filling a previously unmet need for daytime gatherings.

Activities

Chapters of the MOMS Club organize various activities tailored to their local members' interests, including:

• Monthly Meetings: These meetings often focus on topics relevant to mothers and parenting.
• Playgroups: Regular gatherings for children to play together while mothers socialize.
• Mom's Nights Out: Opportunities for mothers to engage in adult-only social activities.
• Holiday Parties: Events celebrating different holidays with activities for families.
• Field Trips: Organized outings to educational or entertaining venues suitable for children.
• Community Speakers: Invitations to experts in child development and parenting to share insights.
• Service Projects: Community service activities aimed at giving back to the local community.

Structure and Nonprofit Status

The MOMS Club operates as a 501(C)(3) public charity, registered under the educational and charitable categories with the IRS. All chapters registered with the International MOMS Club are covered under its group exemption, allowing them to operate as nonprofit entities. Each chapter manages its own finances and activities while adhering to the bylaws provided by the International organization.

Controversy

In 2020, a controversy arose when the international organization declined to post an anti-racist message on its Facebook page, citing concerns about maintaining a non-political stance to protect its nonprofit status. This decision led to the departure of several hundred members and chapters from the organization.

Inclusivity and Charity Work

Despite the controversy, the MOMS Club has historically prided itself on inclusivity, welcoming mothers of all races, religions, sexualities, ethnicities, and economic statuses. The organization also supports a charity known as the Mother-To-Mother (M2M) Fund, which provides financial assistance to members facing severe financial emergencies or natural disasters.