Survive 'n' Thrive Conference Just for Single Moms - MetroFamily Magazine
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Survive 'n' Thrive Conference Just for Single Moms

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According to the U.S. Census Bureau there are 13.7 million single mothers in America.  They comprise over 27% of the homes in the United States.  Arise Ministries, a nonprofit women’s organization, is hosting the eighth annual Single Mothers’ Conference June 22-23 at Crossings Community Church in Oklahoma City.  More than 400 single moms from all over the area as well as five surrounding states gathered for the conference last year, and attendance is expected to increase this June.  The conference has been endorsed by Governor Brad Henry, and Governor Mary Fallin serves as honorary chair of the event.

Mothers from all ages, stages, and areas of single motherhood gather at the conference for their booster shot of encouragement.  The attendees comprise single mothers who have never married or adopted a child without a spouse.  Other moms include women who are separated, widowed or divorced, as well as ladies whose husbands are either incarcerated or stationed overseas in the military.  Due to the diversity of backgrounds, breakout sessions cover a wide-range of subjects to meet the individual needs of the moms.

Participants can select from a variety of breakout topics that offer fresh insight and practical help in finances, dating and remarriage, furthering their education, dealing with teenagers, step family dynamics, raising boys, and more.  Moms will leave the weekend of help and humor encouraged to persevere in raising children alone.

Arise Ministries co-founder Pam Kanaly says, “The role of a single mother has never before been so taxing. She’s the cook, the taxi driver, the money maker, the disciplinarian and the homework monitor.  The demand of being the sole physical, spiritual, financial, and emotional provider for our children falls outside our created roles as mothers, yet through God’s power we’re granted strength.”  From personal experience Kanaly understands, “The wear and tear of everyday life leaves most single mothers overwhelmed and needing a network of support.”

One single mom who attended last year expressed, “During a time when I felt no one saw me or cared about my plight, you made a difference in my life and sent home a mom who is committed to surviving and thriving.  My family will never be the same.”  Another mom commented, “It’s not just a conference, but an experience.”  Out of the conference came the motto for the event, a mom announced, “Single motherhood is not a curse, but a celebration!”

Cost is $25 for moms.  Childcare is free, but registration is required.  Registration deadline is June 15.  For more information or to register, call 405-812-5137 or visit www.singlemomsconference.org.
 

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