The Nurture program brings the community together by matching volunteers with parents during the first year of their baby’s life, whether it’s the first baby or a new baby in the household. Volunteers are trained and supervised to support parents who are adjusting to parenthood, feeling isolated, or overwhelmed. Volunteers visit with parents in their home and provide weekly and bi-weekly support for up to six months.
How does the Nurture program work?
We often hear “it takes a village to raise a child,” yet often parents feel isolated and without enough support as their family dynamics change. Even when transitions go smoothly, parents need all the support they can get to care for themselves and their growing family.
Nurture exists because we acknowledge that parents need nurturing too. We welcome parents to consider being matched with a passionate volunteer who is dedicated to empowering them with in-person support in the following ways:
Practical Support
- Meal preparation and light household tasks
- Care for infants and siblings to provide much needed respite, which may include an opportunity for a nap, shower, exercise, etc.
- Fixing a warm drink and/or light snack
Emotional Support
- Offering a non-judgemental presence
- Listening and empathizing with the family’s experiences, offering validation that they are not alone
Informational Support:
- With permission, gathering and sharing information and resources related to the family’s needs/interests
Contact
Are you a soon-to-be parent or currently adjusting to life with a new baby? Would you like to feel supported by and connected to others in your community? Call or text Shawna Peterson, JFS Nurture Coordinator, at (585) 380-6082 or complete an interest form to learn more. Nurture Family Interest Form.
Volunteer
Are you interested in volunteering to support a growing family? Call or text Shawna Peterson, JFS Nurture Coordinator, at (585) 380-6082.
Apply to be a volunteer
