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Our Mission & Purpose
Mocha Moms is a support group for mothers of color who have
chosen not to work full-time outside of the home in order to devote more time to their families. While many of our members
have eliminated employment altogether, others work part-time, flex-time, night shifts, have home-based businesses, consult
or freelance from home or have chosen alternative, less demanding career paths so that they are more available to their families.
Our goal is to support the decisions made by our members. We will never pass judgment on mothers who choose to make or are
forced to make different decisions for their families. Mocha Moms welcomes people of all religions, races, educational backgrounds
and income levels. Anyone who supports the mission of Mocha Moms is welcome to join.
Our History
In May 1997, Jolene Ivey and Karla Chutz began publishing a
newsletter called "Mocha Moms" in the hopes of connecting with other mothers of color across the country that were taking
time off from their careers to raise their children. The newsletter was intended to encourage these mothers to feel good about
their choice and to provide information to enrich their parenting experience. The first Mocha Moms newsletter was published
in the spring of 1997 and was distributed to over 100 mothers nationwide.
By June of 1997, Jolene and Karla teamed up with
Cheli English-Figaro to make Mocha Moms a national support organization. The first chapter was established in Prince George's
County, Maryland. Joby Dupree came on board as the fourth founder in the fall of 1997 and Mocha Moms, Inc. was born.
Mocha Moms, Inc. was incorporated in 1999 and received
501 (c)(3) non-profit status in January 2002.
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