Why The Birth Network of Monterey County Began (And Why It Still Matters Today)
In 2007, a small group of passionate mothers and grandmothers came together with a shared belief: families in Monterey County deserve access to clear, supportive, and empowering information about birth and early parenting.
They recognized that many parents — many of themselves included — were navigating pregnancy, birth, and postpartum with limited knowledge of their options. Conversations around birth preferences, informed consent, and postpartum support were often fragmented or hard to access. This group envisioned something different: a space where families could learn, connect, and feel confident in the choices they make for themselves and their babies.
From that vision, the Birth Network of Monterey County was born.
In 2014, that grassroots effort became an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Today, we remain the only nonprofit in Monterey County solely dedicated to pregnancy, birth, and postpartum education and resources — and we are proud to offer free educational events for our community and a vast network of compassionate, skilled providers.
A Mission Rooted in Advocacy and Empowerment
Our mission is simple, but deeply meaningful:
To protect the birth experience by providing parents and their families with education, resources, and advocacy.
We believe birth is not just a medical event; it is a transformative life experience. Every birthing person deserves to feel informed, heard, and supported throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
We also know that when families are empowered with knowledge and community, outcomes improve — not just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well.
Building a More Confident, Connected Community
Our vision is a community where every parent has access to the resources they need to make informed decisions — and feels confident doing so.
Through our events, partnerships, and growing network of providers, we aim to:
Connect families with trusted, evidence-based resources
Create space for open, judgment-free conversations
Support parents in honoring their unique pregnancy, birth and parenting journeys
Foster collaboration among local birth and healthcare professionals
And at the heart of it all: we are an all-volunteer organization. Every class, event, and connection is made possible by individuals who care deeply about families in this community.
A Commitment to Growth and Inclusivity
As we’ve grown, we’ve also reflected.
We understand that the broader healthcare system has not always provided equitable, inclusive care. Within the perinatal space, this has had real and lasting impacts on families.
That’s why we are actively working to:
Uplift and include diverse voices and experiences
Support culturally congruent and respectful care
Create opportunities for honest dialogue and learning
Address systemic inequities and implicit bias within our community
Inclusivity is not a statement — it is an ongoing practice. And we are committed to doing that work with intention, humility, and accountability.
Why This Work Matters
Birth has the power to shape families for generations.
When people feel informed, heard, and supported during this time, it builds confidence, strengthens bonds, and lays a foundation for long-term well-being — for individuals, families, and entire communities. When they don’t, the impact can be just as lasting.
That’s why we exist.
To ensure that every family in Monterey County has access to the support, education, and advocacy they deserve — no matter their background, identity, or circumstances.
Join Us
Whether you’re an expecting parent, a seasoned caregiver, or a birth professional, there is a place for you here.
Together, we are building a stronger and more compassionate community, one family at a time.