Have you heard the expression, “least and last?” It refers to those who feel as if their feelings and needs matter the least and often receive attention last. Oftentimes, this phrase refers to women, particularly mothers. The emotional labor mothers carry can be invisible, but the impacts are real. Putting children, partners, work, and household duties first allow for little time left in the day for mothers to decompress and step back. To evaluate their successes as well as their needs.
Our Early Learning Program decided to transform this narrative by hosting the mothers in their program for a special brunch event. They gathered at our Youth & Family Center to hear a reading from nationally renowned author and success coach, Debrena Jackson Gandy. She has written several books that help women understand and nourish themselves completely. For this event, Debrena read from her national bestseller, Sacred Pampering Principles: An African American Woman’s Guide to Self-Care and Renewal. Between readings, Debrena and the women in our Early Learning Program talked about establishing self-empowerment.
The conversations centered around moving forward; to carve out a new future where one is not ‘least and last,’ but rather, ‘enough and valued.’ To help them take that first step forward, Debrena gifted everyone a copy of the book for themselves. She also stayed to have individual chats with our participants.
"I just want you to know that this [book] is in my audio library," said Helen, a participant whose daughter is now almost two years into our Early Learning Program. "And now I get to touch it. Thank you.”
Support from the community can be as varied as those we serve, bringing in much needed diversity and perspectives. Debrena’s expertise lies in writing and leading encouraging conversations. We are thankful she took the time out of her day to speak candidly with the mothers in this program and support them in their well-rounded futures!
The Trader Joe’s Crew Members treated us to some amazing samples (yum!) and showed us exactly where to find each ingredient in the store. They made the experience even better by walking us through how each item is made and what goes into it.
“This program has a special place in my heart,” she said to a room of caregivers and supporters. “I was raised by my grandmother. She didn’t have to – and I wasn’t easy – but she stepped up to care for me just like you with your babies.”
