For Marcie Sharp and Jamie Benson, mommy socializing is a tag-team effort. The co-presidents of the Preston Hollow Early Childhood PTA, each a mother of two boys ages 2-6, work together to make the group fun and educational for moms of preschool-age children. The two North Dallas moms both joined the group in 2006 and served in various board positions before becoming co-presidents in June. The group has been together since 1986, bringing together hundreds of kids and moms over the years. And the best part, Benson says: You don’t have to live in the Preston Hollow neighborhood to join in the fun!
"The group’s first meeting was in 1986, and it was then called the Preston Hollow Preschool Association. Its purpose was to provide encouragement and financial support to Preston Hollow Elementary School and to provide an avenue of friendship for the parents and preschool-aged children in that district. The purpose and name of the organization changed over time to include other families in the area that did not necessarily attend Preston Hollow Elementary School.
"Membership varies over the year between 80 and more than100. Annual dues are $30, and the group runs on an academic year (meaning the monthly meetings take a summer break). There are no limitations on where you have to live or what elementary school district you are in. As a result, we serve members from a large radius around the Preston Hollow neighborhood in North Dallas.
"Every August through April (with a break in December), we have a monthly meeting on the fourth Monday of the month. Monthly meetings usually include social time and a speaker talking about relevant childhood topics. Year round we have a monthly children’s activity or party as well as monthly mom’s night out events such as dinner out, a recipe exchange or a night at the spa.
"The best part of being involved with the group is making friends from around the neighborhood for both us and our children. We have several playgroups that meet frequently, and our holiday children’s parties are always a big hit! And our playgroups are a great way to make lasting friendships.”
