In this episode of the Local Life Leaders Podcast, Janessa Storlie sits down with Jocci Rice, the founder and president of the Olive Motherhood Foundation, a nonprofit organization based in Williston, North Dakota. Jocci shares her inspiring journey from being a stay-at-home mom to creating a supportive community for mothers through her foundation. She discusses the challenges she faced in establishing the nonprofit, the importance of community connections, and the various events and initiatives Olive Motherhood Foundation offers to support moms in the region.
Key Topics Discussed:
- Jocci’s Background and Inspiration for Starting the Olive Motherhood Foundation:
- Jocci Rice was born and raised in Williston, North Dakota, where she observed the strong community bonds from a young age. Inspired by her stepmother's dedication as a stay-at-home mom and her own experiences with postpartum depression, Jocci realized the need for a supportive network for mothers. This led her to establish the Olive Motherhood Foundation to help mothers find their identity outside of motherhood and connect with others in similar situations.
- The Process and Challenges of Establishing a Nonprofit Organization:
- Starting a nonprofit came with a steep learning curve for Jocci. She shares how she navigated the complexities of filing for an LLC, creating bylaws, and securing 501(c)(3) status. With the assistance of a local attorney, Emily Ramage Galtell, and an accountant, Jocci overcame the legal and administrative hurdles. Her story highlights the importance of seeking professional help and being persistent despite initial setbacks.
- The Importance of Community and Creating a Supportive Network for Mothers:
- Jocci emphasizes the value of community support in alleviating the isolation many mothers feel, especially those who have moved to Williston for the oil industry. The Olive Motherhood Foundation aims to build a village for these mothers, offering both emotional support and practical help. By organizing events and fostering connections, the foundation provides a much-needed lifeline for moms without a local support network.
- Various Events and Programs Offered by the Olive Motherhood Foundation:
- The Olive Motherhood Foundation hosts a variety of events tailored to meet the needs of mothers and their families. From mommy-and-me crafts and sensory bin activities to book clubs and large-scale events like the Battle of the Businesses food drive, these programs are designed to offer both fun and support. Jocci shares insights into planning these events, the experimentation involved, and the overwhelming response from the community.
- Collaborations with Local Businesses and Community Impact:
- Collaboration with local businesses is a cornerstone of the foundation’s strategy. Jocci discusses the different partnership levels available for businesses and how these collaborations benefit both the foundation and the business community. By integrating local businesses into their events and initiatives, the foundation not only raises funds but also strengthens community ties and supports the local economy.
- Future Plans and Initiatives for the Olive Motherhood Foundation:
- Looking ahead, the Olive Motherhood Foundation plans to expand its reach through newsletters and more events catering to families in need. Jocci shares her vision for increasing community engagement and support, particularly through initiatives like the food drive, which saw an overwhelming response. The foundation aims to continually adapt and grow to better serve the mothers and families in Williston.
Quotes from Jocci Rice:
- “I knew how I was feeling and I did have people, and so it just really made me think of those who don't have people. And there is a lot, a lot, a lot because they moved from out of state for their husband's work in the oil field.”
- “I always wanted to be a stay-at-home mom. If you would have asked me when I was seven years old what I wanted to be when I grew up, I would either tell you I wanted to be Shania Twain or I wanted to be a mom.”
- “The scariest part about doing anything is just believing in yourself and that you can pull it off.”
Call to Action:
- Follow Olive Motherhood Foundation on Facebook for the latest updates and events. https://www.facebook.com/olivemotherhood
- Visit their website to learn more about their mission, upcoming events, and how you can get involved or donate.https://www.olivemotherhoodfoundation.com/
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