It is Meet a Mom Monday and this week, Morgan Valley.
Morgan, a Greater Lansing native is a single foster mom of 3, dog-mom of 2. Learn more about this amazing mom who continues to give back. She shares her story about being a Nassar sexual assault victim-survivor, some local favorites and her “me time” – it sounds perfect!
Welcome to Greater Lansing Area Moms, Morgan! 🥰
Hi Morgan! Please introduce yourself!
My name is Morgan Valley. I am 24 years old. I am a single foster mom of 3 children (2 boys ages 5 and 7 and a 9 month old). I also have 2 dogs named Ricky and Raine.
Where are you from and where do you live now?
I grew up in Haslett, MI and moved to East Lansing in August 2020 and currently live here.
You’re a foster mom! Can you tell us how you became involved in fostering children?
I started the process in May 2020 and finally became licensed in February 2021. I was inspired to become a foster parent because of a movie I watched on Netflix called “The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez’‘. While I was watching this documentary I thought to myself, “what’s stopping me from starting now?” I also knew a few other people around me who were foster parents and that was encouraging.
Do you have any words of wisdom for someone interested in becoming a foster parent?
It’s hard but it’s so worth it. These kids need people to love them as much as possible. If you’d “get too attached” then you’re even more perfect for the role than you think. They need people to get too attached.
Best piece of advice you have received being a foster parent?
Get too attached, love unconditionally and celebrate the little victories.
Switching topics, you are also a Nassar sexual assault survivor. We appreciate your bravery and openness speaking about this topic.
What do you think is important for people to know about your story?
I think it is important for people to know that abuse can come from the people we least expect. It can also be something you don’t even realize until years later. I also think it is important for people to believe others when they come forward.
What services/resources/people helped you in your recovery?
Some of the best things that have helped me in my recovery is therapy. Specifically EMDR therapy. It has also been helpful to have friends who understand what I/we went through.
What suggestions do you have to make it safer for victim-survivors to come forward?
Similar to what I said above but it is crucial to believe and validate survivors when they are brave enough to share their story.
Thank you for speaking about this difficult topic, we know it will help others.
Switching topics again 🙂
What is your favorite Summer family activity to do in the Greater Lansing area?
We love to go swimming, go for walks, go to Potter Park Zoo and play sports.
What are a few of your favorite restaurants and shops in Greater Lansing?
Mother & Earth Baby Boutique and Cancun Mexican Grill
Now some FUN ones!
5 Fun Facts about you!
- I am left handed
- I have traveled to Iceland
- I played football when I was younger
- I have fostered 5 litters of puppies
- I love pasta
What’s your favorite thing to do when you need some “me time”?
I love to sit in my hammock and read books. I am currently reading “Bringing up Bébé” by Pamela Druckerman. I also like to take my dogs for a walk.
Last one – Who is your biggest mentor in your life?
Judy Quinn. She was my teacher in high school and after my graduation we kept in touch and have become great friends.
Morgan, thank you so much for joining GLAMoms as the Meet a Mom this week. We are honored to share your story! 🥰
How do you prefer readers to connect with you if they would like more information?
Instagram – @morganvalleyy
Facebook – Morgan Valley
Email – [email protected]
Morgan Valley’s Meet a Mom feature was brought to you by Boji Group. Boji Group specializes in Private-Public Partnerships, has offices in both Lansing and Birmingham and is headquartered in downtown Lansing.
