The journey of pregnancy, birth and parenting is humbling, joyful, vulnerable and more than a little exhausting. And while many families navigate this season of life with minimal support, there is a team in Aptos trying to change this reality.
Nestled near the beach in Seacliff, The Circle Family Center is a refuge for local families. Run by a team of mothers and birth workers, The Circle opened its doors three years ago with the vision of creating a community for families during pregnancy, birth, and the early years of parenthood. With offerings like Pre & Postnatal Yoga, Childbirth Education, Infant Enrichment, Dads Groups, and Toddler Messy Play, this space has something for everyone.
Imagine walking into a beautiful building with an ocean view. There’s a fussy baby in your arms, but she is quickly scooped up by loving hands while you take a moment to make yourself a cup of tea. Someone asks you about your day, checks in about last week’s doctor’s appointment, or follows up on the work meeting you’ve been stressed about. You are seen, remembered, and valued.
This is the energy you’ll find at The Circle. It’s a space where everyone belongs; where you are invited to come as you are and stay as long as you need.
“The Circle is my home away from home,” says local mom, Gina. “I had postpartum depression and ended up here, surrounded by caregivers and children of all different ages and places in their lives. No one here is judged. No one is questioned. No one is ever running late. We are all just doing our best with the children in our lives and this place will never make you feel like your best is less than that.”
“This place is amazing!” adds Jasmine. “It truly offers you the opportunity to find community and a village, which is so beautiful. Bring your little one and meet people who can meet you where you’re at. I have two under 2 and this place has been a godsend.”
The Circle is a nonprofit organization, which allows them to offer scholarships and sliding scale admission to anyone who needs it. In fact, families who are enrolled in Medi-Cal have free access to all of their classes and groups. With offerings in English and Spanish, plus virtual and in-person options, they are reducing barriers to support however they can.
“I really enjoyed connecting with other dads in the men’s group,” recalls Trenton, father of two. “I was able to find a community of dads and we still go on hikes with the kids.”
This summer, The Circle expanded its reach by launching a doula training program that has prepared nearly 30 new birth & postpartum doulas to provide free and low-cost support to local families. “We believe everyone deserves individualized birth and postpartum care,” explains co-founder Kim Guiley. “Most families who can’t afford doula support are the ones who need it the most.” By expanding the network of affordable doulas, including many who speak Spanish, The Circle hopes to improve local birth outcomes, reduce the rate of postpartum depression, and create more joy and empowerment during birth and beyond.
“Our goal is to create a safe space for families that makes their day just a little bit better,” reflects co-founder Elisa Havens-Stokes. “No matter who you are, you belong here.”
Interested in learning more about The Circle Family Center? Check out their full class schedule, sign up for one of their offerings, or make a tax-deductible donation by visiting www.thecirclefamilycenter.org.
by The Circle Co-Founders
Comcast is proud to sponsor this column, which features the great work of non-profit groups supporting the Santa Cruz community.
