How to become a FEMALE
(a Formerly Employed Mother at the Leading Edge)
 by Martha M. Bullen

“Sooner or later we come to the conclusion that we must try to forge new relationships with other at-home mothers. This is no longer as easy as popping in to the neighbor’s—she may be at work, or busy running up and down the stairs doing laundry with a baby 
slung over one hip."

The first FEMALE meeting was held in August 1987 in Joanne's home in Elmhurst, IL. The first chapter (in DuPage County, IL) grew quickly and received much local and national press attention. When the group was mentioned in Ms., Parents, and other national magazines, women
across the country began inquiring about starting local chapters.
The acronym “FEMALE” originally stood for “Formerly Employed Mothers At Loose Ends”, describing many women’s feelings as they made the transition from the workplace to the home. In May 1991, the name was changed to “Formerly Employed Mothers At the Leading Edge,” because "at loose ends" no longer adequately described the members or the organization. FEMALE’s members are at the leading edge of the feminist movement in finding ways to balance family and work in their own lives. "At the Leading Edge" also describes the group's commitment to educating and motivating businesses and government to become more responsive to families’ needs.

Looking back on her decision to start the organization, Joanne wrote,
“Sooner or later we come to the conclusion that we must try to forge new
relationships with other at-home mothers. This is no longer as easy as
popping in to the neighbor’s—she may be at work, or busy running up and down the stairs doing laundry with a baby slung over one hip. Not all at-home moms, just as not all employed women, will automatically get along. Making friends at a mom-and-tot class can be difficult because in that uneasy, getting-to-know-you stage, you often find yourselves discussing what you obviously have in common—kids. But let’s face it, even if maybe for now babies are our business, we do not always want to talk shop. What we need to talk about are the things in our lives, our past lives, our future plans (I know—what past? what future? what plans?), our frustrations and our thwarted ambitions. These subjects can be difficult to bring up with new acquaintances.

Many wonderful things come from involvement in FEMALE’s local
chapters—evening meetings for moms only, playgroups, book discussions, social activities and more. But first and most importantly, it gives us the
opportunity to make valuable new friendships, coming together to exchange the frustrations, laughter, support and encouragement we need as at-home mothers.”

Today the demand for FEMALE support is greater than ever. The
organization has gone from one frustrated mom to a not-for-profit
organization of over 7350 members. Since its inception, FEMALE has grown to 180 chapters in the U.S.

For a $24 annual fee, FEMALE offers its members the following:

FEMALE Forum – a newsletter of features, interviews, columns, FEMALE news, and more 

Twice-monthly local chapter meetings with topical discussions, guest
speakers, book discussions and overall support

Playgroups

Family outings

Mom’s night out activities

Support system in times of personal need

Advocacy programs

Involvement and leadership opportunities

For more information and a list of local chapters near you, contact:

FEMALE
P.O. Box 31
Elmhurst, IL 60126
Phone: 800-223-9399 Fax: 630-941-3551

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