MoverMoms Hosts Its First-ever Inspiration Day

Sunday, April 28th was an overcast and rainy day outside. But inside the River Falls Clubhouse in Potomac, the air was filled with inspiration and exhiliaration. MoverMoms, the Bethesda-based non-profit organization, held its first-ever Inspiration Day.

The afternoon event featured three extraordinary speakers:

Elizabeth Petty, owner of Elizabeth's Gone Raw restaurant in DC and breast cancer survivor

Yael Luttwak, filmmaker and founder of Slim Peace, a health, weight loss, and empowerment organization that brings together Jewish and Muslim women 

Luby Ismail, founder of Connecting Cultures and expert on diversity and interfaith understanding.

"Our speakers were incredible," says MoverMoms Chief Inspiration Officer Salma Hasan Ali.  "Each one shared her personal stories with such honesty and humor and grace. It felt really good to take a little time to quiet the rush of our lives and just allow ourselves to be together, listen to stories, and feel inspired."  

In addition, delcious platters of food were donated by Whole Foods Market Bethesda, and dessert was provided by Georgetown Cupcake in Bethesda. In addition, there were raffles and sales of a new poster that MoverMoms has created titled "50 Ways to Nurture Community."

Each year since its founding in 2007, MoverMoms has had an anniversary event once a year with speakers, food, and (last year) a Silent Auction.  It serves as a way to bring together a wonderful group of smart, passionate, and energetic women who are participants in the 200+ member group.

This year, the decision was made to do something a little different, namely an Inspiration Day.  CIO Salma Hasan Ali explains how that decision came about: "I think we can all use a dose of inspiration and sense of community, especially with the happenings in Boston and around the world. The idea behind Inspiration Day was to come together as a community, to hear the stories of some of our local heroes and how they are overcoming challenges and promoting good, and to replenish our own sense of purpose." 

And in fact, that's exactly what happened.  Upon leaving, as the event ended, several people commented how inspired they felt by the event -- to try to live a healthier or more peaceful life, to work towards personal goals, and to be more involved in community service.  It was an event filled with hope and sunshine -- even when the weather outside was dreery and wet!