Meet Maraion Douglas of MOMA’s House
Maraion, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
After working in corporate America for almost 30 years, I had questioned my purpose. Even after leaving Kansas City and moving to Phoenix in 2004, I did not pursue my dream. February 2007, I again questioned my purpose, so I resigned from my position at American Express and began the journey of making the dream of MOMA’s House a reality. Along with that journey, God began to put people in my path to make it happen.
The journey of MOMA’s House began with what I call the 3M’s:
My mother, whose door was always open while raising me and my 7 siblings as a single parent. At the age of 33, she took on the responsibility of 8 brothers and sisters after the death of her mother. Through her trust and belief in GOD, she fed, clothed, educated and gave hope to 16 children. So, she laid the foundation for MOMA’s House.
Myla, my daughter while going through her teenage years brought many of her friends to Mamma-D’s home for encouragement, food, love, laughter and a lot of hugs. Who, after becoming a mother, said to me, “I am thankful to God that I have a mother like you.” She became the inspiration for MOMA’s House.
Mary J. Blige, while watching “The Oprah Show” in February 2007, I saw the transformation of her life when she allowed GOD to step in and take control. She was able to give up a life of abuse, alcohol, drugs and the people who did not want her to succeed. I was able to feel her pain and the presence of God’s spirit through the TV. She provided the confirmation that I must move forward with MOMA’s House.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The majority of the challenges faced with assisting women with abuse is adequate funding, necessary resources and a community that understands that these women were victimized.
As much as we want to reach every woman of abuse, we understand that some are just not ready to face the challenges that come with life-changing moments.
The foundation of MOMA’s House is built on Faith so we utilize that as we continue to navigate through the healing process.
Our team consists of Volunteers and we are in constant need of volunteers as many have jobs and families that need them as well. We also utilize interns to assist with the implementation of our Program.
MOMA’s House is funded by donations and fundraisers, we are constantly seeking funding opportunities in an effort to keep our doors open.
MOMA’s House – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
MOMA’S house offers transitional housing, restorative services and economic advancement opportunities to adult female victims of abuse. Our target group is women without custodial children.
We embrace those coming out of domestic violence crisis centers or sex trafficking situations and offer them new beginnings. Our mission is to promote the growth and development of those we serve by empowering them to experience healing and wholeness.
Each resident has her own furnished room with full kitchen access, on-site laundry facility, and home gym.
Our property has security gates and doors, alarm system and the staff is available 24-7.
Every year a formal event(Open Door Awards) highlighting the success of the women who have completed the program is conducted. It is also our yearly fundraising opportunity.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
MOMA’s House succeeds when women who have utilized our programs are able to go back to their communities and create their own successes.
The MOMA’s House program gives residents the opportunity to concentrate on creating the life they want to live and becoming totally self-sufficient. Residents reconstruct their lives by:
• Refocusing their energy into identifying their personal goals.
• AA or NA group meetings (if applicable)
• Attending Prostitution Anonymous sessions (if sex trafficking survivor)
• Working with the Resident Advisor (RA) to ensure that the logistic needs of daily living are provided (food, medical, counseling, education, etc.) by determining and obtaining the resources needed, thereby creating stability and structure in their lives
• Participating in the Individual Development Plan (IDP) process to create a plan for their success
• Participating in scheduled life skills workshops and classes
• Participating in REACH (leadership/ self-esteem building) and job readiness courses
Pricing:
- Program fee of $500.00 monthly for participants
Contact Info:
- Website: www.momashouse.org
- Phone: 480-309-9853
- Email: info@momashouse.org
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MOMAshouseINTL/
Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
