History of AMI

The ideals of American Mothers, Inc. (AMI) began in the heart and mind of Anna Reeves Jarvis as she sought to heal the hearts of families caught in the conflict of the Civil War.Organizing a day of love and friendship across battle lines, this simple observance grew into a national holiday known as Mother’s Day.Today, AMI is the official sponsor of Mother’s Day and Mother of the Year. The first Mother of the Year was presented by Honorary Chair Sarah Delano Roosevelt in 1935 at the Waldorf Astoria. Every year since then, AMI has named a remarkable mother from among Mothers of the Year from 50 states, Puerto Rico, and District of Columbia for this important honor. In the 1960’s, AMI expanded to support the specific needs of young mothers and the selection of Young Mother Representatives. Each is honored at an annual convention in recognition of the invaluable contribution mothers make to the future success and happiness of their children and society.

AMI is an interfaith, non-political, non-profit oraganization for women and men who identify with our Purpose of strengthening the moral and spiritual foundations of the family and home. AMI is dedicated to continuing its 68-year pledge to promote these age-old values and principles upon which America was founded. The fracturing of family life can be resisted and altered. AMI stands ready to help the nation rededicate itself to its family commitments.