In May 1997, Jolene Ivey and Karla Chutz began publishing a newsletter called “Mocha Moms” in the hopes of connecting with other mothers of color across the country that were taking time off from their careers to raise their children. The newsletter was intended to encourage these mothers to feel good about their choice and to provide information to enrich their parenting experience. The first Mocha Moms newsletter was published in the spring of 1997 and was distributed to over 100 mothers nationwide.

By June of 1997, Jolene and Karla teamed up with Cheli English-Figaro to make Mocha Moms a national support organization. The first chapter was established in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Joby Dupree came on board as the fourth founder in the fall of 1997 and Mocha Moms, Inc. was born.

In December 1997, the name “Mocha Moms” was registered and copyrighted with the United States Patent and Trademark Office and the organization was registered in the state of Maryland as a non-stock corporation. The first Mocha Moms, Inc. support group meeting was held in January 1998 and the first Moms Only Potluck Supper took place in February 1998. Mocha Moms, Inc received IRC 501©(3) non-profit status in January 2002