Mentor Spotlight: Lauren

How long have you been a NurturePA mentor?

One year! 

What makes the nurture® program so special? 

The diversity of our mentors and moms makes NurturePA really special.  I’ve learned different perspectives on motherhood and navigating that journey from both sets of moms. The Facebook group is excellent for getting many different opinions on a topic because usually, there isn’t one right answer for the mom you are supporting or her child. 

What is your favorite part about being a NurturePA mentor? 

My favorite thing about NuturePA is the community. On one level, there is the NuturePA community of mentors and supervisors that I’m in contact with through Round Tables and the Facebook Group. On another level, NurturePA supervisors help us to see the broader community in Pittsburgh that is here to support moms and young families. It’s heartening to see so many organizations making this their priority.  

Tell us about a time when you feel like you made a positive impact on the life of a mom and her new baby. 

Most moms struggle with getting their baby to sleep, whether that is to go down for a nap with ease or stay asleep for a decent chunk of time.  I remember checking in with a mom regarding her baby’s sleep since I knew it was something she was focusing on and had been really frustrated by.  I was able to point out the progress that she and the baby had made since our last sleep chat. It made her feel a lot better to know that she was making progress and that someone else was cheering her on. 

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I’m excited to be getting back into the workforce! I’ve been out of work for nearly four years, staying at home with my little ones. I’ve been working on getting my Physical Therapy license back for almost as long as I’ve been a mentor and am happy to be starting a casual position at a local hospital.