“It is a support system for young mothers”
www.thesuburban.com
Beaurepaire resident, Kathy Kostlivy, is an illustration of the importance of family values in today’s fast paced world. Kostlivy, a McGill alumnus educated in Art History, always believed of a career in big business upon graduation.
“My first job was in a call centre, and I quickly realized that it wasn’t for me” said Kostlivy.
Her way of thinking changed when she began working at a local health club 15 years ago. “The members showed me the importance of building relationships. It was a rich support system which really impressed me” Kostlivy told The Suburban.
Her assignment as Leisure Technician at the college level further strengthened her beliefs. “It was more than coordinating activities, it included academic coaching and encouragement” Kostlivy told The Suburban.
She tapped her passion in 2012 with her introduction of Moms Near Me, a real world, and an online community that provides an easy way for parents in the Montreal area to connect with each other through a variety of services. A first time mother, Kostlivy wanted to raise her own child. She was alone with her son but she wanted to keep her mind sharp.
“I decided to create an online group for young mothers with children between the ages of 12-24 months. My first idea was music in the park. My goal was to get 12 people. What I received was 30 with another 15 on the waiting list” said Kathy.
She accomplishes this by providing a series of weekly activities such as mom and baby fitness, nutrition, and stroller workouts.
“The fees are nominal. We do need a required minimum, but as long as the costs are covered, then the event will go as planned.” said Kathy.
“She’s amazing! Organizing classes and group buys of natural products for our kids so we save money and a board where moms can post questions and support each other. It’s an important part of moms lives that was missing before, and I applaud her for taking the initiative to do something that we all wish we could do for each other” said Lisa Solti, a Pointe Claire mother who uses this community on a weekly basis.
“Moms Near Me is a great resource for new moms; I’ve taken a CPR course, ordered baby products and met some new friends as well. There are usually a few interesting topics of conversation going on online from nursing and feeding your baby to comparing doctors and recipes. Always sharing local activities and deals for all sorts of things” added Pointe Claire resident Shannon Cater.
Moms Near Me have a private forum with 500 followers which discourage advertising. A handful of local businesses do donate prizes for mothers to win on special occasions.
“You learn to adapt as things evolve. The challenge is to find new people” said Kostlivy. This resource is a solid support system for one another and is very good for me. It is a nice balance in helping me raise my family.” confirmed Kostlivy.
Moms Near Me can be reached at www.momsnearme.com.
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