Forest Collective
At the heart of this community are the home pods—small groups of 6 to 7 adults and their children who meet regularly to build strong, meaningful connections. These pods come together to form the Forest, a larger network of families across Anchorage who create traditions, share resources, and foster multi-generational support systems.
But what does that actually look like? It’s a soup-making exchange when life feels too full to cook, meetups at the museum to learn and explore together, ladies' nights out to recharge, coffee meetups for deep conversations, skiing with friends to move our bodies and breathe in the fresh air, community art projects for kids that spark creativity, day retreats for women to rest and reflect, and an ongoing WhatsApp thread where we ask for help, offer support, and share life’s ups and downs.
It’s about showing up for one another, not just in the big moments, but in the everyday ones.
If you’re craving deeper connection and a true village, this is for you.
History behind Forest Collective
The inspiration for starting this collective came from Amy’s early experience founding the original Nature Song Forest group during her daughter’s early childhood. For three years, the group met weekly in the woods, fostering deep friendships and meaningful memories that shaped her parenting journey. After the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, Amy recognized the need to help mothers reconnect and build support networks. Rooted in Nature Song’s values of interconnection and mutual support, pods became spaces where families could thrive, creating the same sense of community and belonging she had cherished years before.
Developing Community Through Pods
Pods are small groups of 6 to 8 families who meet weekly outdoors, with Amy Rupp serving as the coordinator and guide, gradually transitioning into self-sustaining communities. These pods are built with caregivers in mind—creating a space for meaningful conversations, shared laughter, and regular adult gatherings where parents can connect, recharge, and enjoy time together.
By simply showing up each week for six weeks, families build the foundation for deep connections, trust, and a support network that can continue to grow long after the initial gatherings with Amy.
Mutual Aid in Three Steps
Step One:
Reach out to Amy using the form below to express your interest in joining a pod. In March and August, Amy will invite those on the Interest List to an informal meetup at a local park to learn more about Forest Collective and decide if you’d like to join a pod. The group will agree on a regular time and day for weekly meetups.
Step Two:
Amy will meet with each pod for six weeks at local woodland parks in Anchorage. Caregivers will also join the Nature Song Mighty Network, a space for intentional online connection, replacing social media.
Step Three:
After the six weeks, the pod will run on its own, participating in whole Forest gatherings and creating new pods based on shared interests. As part of the Forest Collective, you’ll have access to a supportive network of caregivers, opportunities for deeper connection through community events, and the ability to collaborate on new initiatives. You'll also enjoy exclusive access to the Nature Song Mighty Network for ongoing communication, a space for intentional online connection, and a chance to be part of a thriving, intergenerational community that values mutual aid and collective growth.
Why Join
Connection & Community
Meaningful Friendships – Meet like-minded moms and build lasting relationships.
Support Circles – Share experiences in a judgment-free space with moms who understand.
Personal Growth & Learning
Shared Resources – Access collaborative discussions on parenting, wellness, and personal development.
Self-Care & Mindfulness – Practice prioritizing your well-being while balancing motherhood.
Fun & Social Events
Mom’s Night Out – Recharge with fun, casual outings designed just for you.
Kid-Friendly Meetups – Connect while your children play in a welcoming environment.
Whole Family Meetups - come together to connect, learn, and grow through nature, play, and shared experiences!
Seasonal Celebrations and Holidays - gathering as a large forest for special events: lantern walks, advent spiral walks, pumpkin patch walk, Valentines tea, May Day Celebrations, Family Camping Trips, etc.
Exclusive Perks
Private Online Community – Get support anytime with a dedicated space for conversation and connection.
Exclusive Activities – dynamic groups that form around shared activities, volunteering opportunities, and passions.
