By NICOLE VALICEK
A social group that was developed by a single parent for single parents with kids offers its members a chance to create long-lasting friendships.
Melbourne-based Single Parents Active Kids (SPAK) is a not-for-profit social group for single parents and their children.
SPAK founder Moush Mohtadi said he noticed there was a missing niche market for single parents.
“No matter how we got to single parent status, we’re all in the same boat, the group is an opportunity to build friendship with fellow single parents and for our kids to build on too,” Mr Mohtadi said.
This year the group will celebrate its five-year anniversary, they are also getting ready to host a SPAK Family Fun Day at Logan Reserve, Altona on Sunday 7 April and invite people in the community to attend.
The free event is an opportunity for new members to meet like-minded people and includes a sausage sizzle, face painting, magician, craft area and ball games.
SPAK runs co-ordinated activities all over Melbourne on weekends and weeknights with lots of things planned for the school holidays and 80 per cent of events kid-orientated.
Mr Mohtadi said SPAK has saved its members more than $135,000 over 27 months on events and activities.
He said a main goal of the group was to make long lasting friendships for parents and their kids.
Point Cook resident Liz Whiffin said the group had been a lifesaver for herself and five-year-old daughter Gracie.
“I had just separated from my husband of 11 years, I’m from Sydney and hadn’t formed any social networks (in Melbourne),” Ms Whiffin said.
“It’s more about being able to get out and have fun with your kids.”
“It’s been an absolute life saver, I have met friends who I know will be friends for life outside of SPAK.”
She said the $45 registration fee was worth a chance.
“If you don’t like it or people there, you never have to see them again, but there’s no way on earth you won’t form some friendships that will last you a life-time.”
“This year, so far I have personally been to camps in Phillip Island and Lake Eppalock, seen Jersey Boys and the Comedy Gala, been to Legends on the Lawn and Healesville Sanctuary and attended a cocktail party.”
For more information, contact Moush 0430 504 119/ info@singleparenttactivekids.org/ www.singleparentsactivekids.org.
