Summary:
Montgomery Community Church’s “After the Boxes are Unpacked” class is a support group and ministry for women who have recently moved to the Cincinnati area. Former members share their experiences with the latest newcomers and facilitate the classes. Much is also gained by the instant bond formed by the women as they share their challenges together. Outreaches of the group also include man
y planned outings throughout the year. The women gather to explore various areas of Cincinnati through cultural and social outings, enabling them to learn more about their new home and each other while having fun in the process! History:
First class of “After the Boxes are Unpacked,” was held in the winter of 2009. Five newcomers to Cincinnati participated in that first class and the group has been growing stronger ever since. More than 100 women have now participated. Sessions are held two times a year; once in the fall (mid September - late November) and once in the winter (mid January - early April). Each session lasts 9 weeks, followed by a pot luck luncheon hosted by the alumni. Participants are from all age groups and stages of life ranging from newlyweds, to young mothers, mothers of teenagers, to empty nesters, to retirees. Besides having moved from all over the United States, participants have also relocated from Brazil, South Korea, Canada, Puerto Rico, Japan, China and United Arab Emirates. Book:
The class is based on a book entitled, “After the Boxes are Unpacked – Moving On After Moving In” by Susan Miller who was a corporate wife and had moved more than 12 times with her husband and family. She realized that moving is hard on everyone but particularly the woman who often takes it upon her herself to help everyone in the family adjust to the new surroundings. But who helps her? Susan knew often times these women feel lonely having left their support network behind and feeling they have nowhere to turn. Susan’s many experiences with relocation developed her desire to help woman facing similar challenges.