Seattle Mom Inspires through Crowdfunding
June
22,
2011
Writing a book is never easy - it takes dedication and talent. Writing a book of motherly advice for the 21st century from the perspective of a single mother is particularly challening.
But Angela Toussaint has successfully written such an important work. Now she is engaging her community through RocketHub to complete her book and build awareness. I had the pleasure of chatting with Angela about her inspiration.
What was the inspiration behind the writing project you are currently running on RocketHub? Why is it important to you?
Watching moms interact with their kids and seeing the weariness in their eyes. I have been there. I wrote The Momarchy in the hopes that my experiences and subsequent lessons will help other moms restore order and have fun raising their children. I truly believe our personal lives are the last bastion of feminism. We are liberated professionally and politically but in our private existences are not much different than they were 45 years ago. Women work all day and then are expected to go home, care for the children and do all of the housework. This is true whether they have a partner or not. As a result there is not enough “space” for a woman to pursue her passions or fully realize her talents. Maybe The Momarchy can help moms change this dynamic.
That's quite a bold vision. How has your experience been as a crowdfunding pioneer in the world of writing in Seattle - how are your supporters responding?
This has been an amazing experience. The crowdfunding process has provided an opportunity for my supporters to get involved in a visibly meaningful way. Despite the recession, my supporters have been generous and encouraging. I am humbled by their faith in me.
You've built a lot of momentum quickly. Any advice for Creatives looking to crowdfund a similar project?
I followed the RocketHub.org advice. I started with folks who are close to me. First, I sent emails and then followed up with phone calls. The public thank you to patrons who have recently given helped a lot as well. If I had any advice, it would be “if you build it they won’t come unless you TELL everyone about it.” Literally tell everyone because you may be surprised at who will support you.
It warms my heart to hear your positive experience with RocketHub.org. Check out this valuable project and get your copy of The Momarchy.
-Vlad
