Mom’s House Gazette sat down with Marty Long, a board member to find out more about him and why he continues to support Mom’s House.

 

 Tell me how you first got involved in with Mom’s House . . .

I was always involved in Pro-Life activities and my sister-in-law Brenda Long told me about an organization that was forming in Lancaster.  The common misconception is that Pro-Life people don’t care about the baby and the Mom after birth.  Mom’s House erases that myth.  That is what attracted me to Mom’s House.

What was your first impression of Mom’s House?

I knew that Mom’s House was a great way to help end the cycle of poverty and that 2 generations (maybe more) would benefit.

What’s your first memory of (something related to Mom’s House)?

I remember the endless fundraisers and the good news we got from the UPS Corporation that allowed us to purchase the 415 South Queen Street location 25 years ago. 

What has surprised you most about working with Mom’s House?

I was surprised how generous people can be.  When I thought people could not help anymore–they did; whether with donations of goods, finances or time. 

What do you find most challenging about single parents/childcare/education?

Getting name recognition was a huge hurdle.  The organization had its founding roots in Johnstown PA and spreading the name and idea was challenging.

What’s the best/worst thing to happen since you started working with Mom’s House?

The best thing about working with Mom’s House is meeting the stream of generous people.  Without them, Mom’s House would not exist.  The worst thing about working with Mom’s House is that we can’t meet all the client’s needs.  We have a waiting list that we would love to help but don’t have a building big enough.

When you last (volunteered, made a donation, etc.), how did that make you feel?

I always feel good when I donate to Mom’s House.  I know that my small donation will help make a big difference in people’s lives.

What do you wish other people knew about Mom’s House?

I wish other people new the good work we do at Mom’s House and that we have been here for 25 years. Did you know we have a food and clothing bank and provide parenting classes?

Why are you supporting Mom’s House as opposed to other groups working on single parents/childcare/education?

We have clients that are not well served by any other organization.  The free child care is almost unheard of. I wish we could help more.

Tell me about some of the people you’ve met while working on single parents/childcare/education?

I’ve meet a lot of people while helping Mom’s House.  I don’t believe any of them are celebrities, but in my book (and the parents and kids books), every volunteer, donor, Board Member and employee is a living Saint.  Most of them have no idea how much they are appreciated.  But they make a difference to each and every parent and child we serve.

What would you say are some of your strongest beliefs about single parents/childcare/education?

Mom’s House recognizes that people need help and there are folks that are willing to offer that help.  Mom’s House cares about single parents and children and is willing to help the parent get an education and give the child a safe place to stay for no cost. I don’t know of any other organization doing that.

What’s your personal philosophy on what should be done about single parents/childcare/education?

I would love to see Mom’s House grow to the point that no one that needs help gets turned away because of lack of space or finances. 

When your friends/family find out that you (volunteer, donate, etc.), what do they say or ask?

The first question is always, “What is Mom’s house?”  Then after a short explanation the response is “What a great organization!”

What might (someone) be surprised to know about you?

I am one of 10 children.  I grew up on a farm.  I love bluegrass music. I have been married to Cheryl for 36 years and have 4 boys, 3 of which are married and have 3 grandchildren. I don’t usually talk about myself.

The interest in single parents/childcare/education seems to be growing/waning. Why do you think that is?

The interest in Mom’s House appears to be growing.  As folks find out more about us, they get excited and want to help.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about (donating, volunteering, etc.)?

Mom’s House is an easy way to make a huge difference in a single parent and child’s lives.  Yes please do help! We can use food for our food bank, clothing for our families, financial help to hire more teachers and grow into a larger building.

What do you think will change about single parents/childcare/education or Mom’s House over the next five years?

I think as the Mom’s House success stories are told, the excitement level will increase.  With that come more teachers for more children and a larger building.

What do you do when you aren’t (working, volunteering)?

I like to spend time with my wife, children and grandchildren.  We also enjoy trips to the grandparents’ houses in western PA. We are very active in our church and enjoy eating out for breakfast.