Mom of two, Doris Donley recognized for positively impacting communities around her; excellence in mentorship & volunteer experience
Doris Donley of Colorado has been named the 2022 National Mother of the Year®. She was awarded this honor by American Mothers, Inc. on April 30 during their 87th National Convention held virtually this year. American Mothers, Inc. (AMI) is an 87-year-old non- profit organization whose mission is to recognize mothers and their positive impact in communities through the annual Mother of the Year® award.
Donley is a mother of two and grandmother of two who has a passion for nurturing and mentoring youth in her community. “There were mothers who mentored me at a young age and I think that’s the important aspect of caring for your community. We need mentors for all children because things look different for each and every child.” said Donley.
She says that being recognized as the 87th National Mother of the Year is a huge honor. “I’m very humbled and honored by this, and I love that moms of all ages and backgrounds are being acknowledged,” said Donley.
Through her role in the community, Donley has played a significant part in impacting the lives of youth athletes with disabilities. “I’ve gotten to walk alongside some amazing athletes,” shared Donley. “We get to mentor youth who have either been athletes or are learning to be athletes and they’re all remarkable. They’ve taught me to look at life with a totally different perspective—that you don’t have to have sight to have a vision.”
For over eight decades, American Mothers has had the honor of recognizing inspirational moms from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. From these state honorees, the National Mother of the Year® selection committee selects one to be named the National Mother of the Year® annually. The committee is comprised of diverse individuals from across the country who represent the business, education, government, religious and/or non-profit sectors.
“We are excited to see Doris Donley join the legacy of our historic organization and the work we do. Each of our state honorees are truly remarkable mothers who embody a love and commitment for their family and community. While it’s never an easy decision for our selection committee, we believe Doris will be a strong representative to carry forward the voices of moms from across the country,” said Joyce Stevens, President of American Mothers, Inc.
While expanding on her passion to volunteer and embrace others, Donley shared, “I think that love and kindness go a long way because we never know what shoes people have walked in. I’ve had some amazing people come through my home, whether it was an exchange student, a Cadet from the Air Force Academy, or hockey players. To me, it’s all about the people who have come through my life and finding joy in loving others.”
Nominations for Mother of the Year® are accepted annually, from Mother’s Day to September 15, at AmericanMothers.org. For general media inquiries or to set up an interview with Doris Donley, contact news@americanmothers.org
