Posted by Kate Weldon LeBlanc

Like many others today, I am sorry to learn that Isis Parenting has closed. In the relatively small world of parenting support in which I am honored to work, the news is huge and surprising. The staff of Isis Parenting and the Center for Early Relationship Support® have been strong collaborators and friends over the years. However, I process this announcement more as a mother of a young child, empathizing immediately with other parents receiving this news.

Though I never personally participated in an Isis group or class, many of my dear friends have. Countless families have found support through Isis, and their impact has been powerful. After reading many Facebook posts that expressed sorrow, gratitude, and shock, I too felt compelled to write, through both a personal and professional lens.

I want expectant and new parents in our broader community to know they are not alone. We at JF&CS are here for you with our network of free weekly support groups, new parent consultations, and other services for parents and their newborns and young children. Please don't hesitate to contact us if we can be helpful to you or your family.

Kate Weldon LeBlanc has been the associate director of CERS since August of 2009. Kate is passionate about child and family issues, particularly on building communities of support for parents. Prior to her arrival at JF&CS, she spent nearly ten years working in the departments of Child Advocacy and Government Relations at Children's Hospital Boston. She holds a BSW from Skidmore College and a MPA from UMass Boston.