Mo Jam: Homemade Jam Success on the Western Slope

Maureen "Mo" Hanson's life has been a journey of constant movement, but one thing remains steady – her passion for creating wholesome, delicious food for her family and community. As a Silt resident and entrepreneur, Hanson has turned her hobby into a thriving business, Mo Jam, which has become a staple at local events and markets.

Growing up as a military child, Hanson moved frequently, never quite calling one place home. However, after settling on the Western Slope, she found a sense of stability and purpose. While working at Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs, Hanson was encouraged by Dr. Christiaan Maurer to pursue her education, leading her to become a Registered Medical Assistant. This experience not only shaped her career but also instilled in her the value of hard work and dedication.

As a single mom raising three daughters, Hanson faced the challenges of making ends meet. She recalls carefully budgeting her expenses, knowing exactly how many gallons of gas it took to get from work to home. But it was her desire to provide healthy food options for her daughters that sparked the idea for Mo Jam. Dissatisfied with the sugary and additive-laden products available at local groceries, Hanson started making her own jam using fresh fruit, sugar, and pectin. The response from friends and family was overwhelming, with many requesting her homemade jam for themselves or as gifts.

What started as a small-batch operation has evolved into a successful business, with Mo Jam debuting at the Market on 7th in Glenwood Springs about six years ago. Hanson's creative flavors, such as Rosemary Pear and Apricot Bourbon, have won first-place ribbons at events like Silt Heyday and the Garfield County Rodeo. Her products are made with love and care, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. In fact, Hanson grows some of the fruit and vegetables used in her products, including the rhubarb in her Strawberry Rhubarb jam.

So, what does this mean for you, Western Slope residents? Mo Jam's success is a testament to the power of local entrepreneurship and the demand for wholesome, artisanal products. By supporting businesses like Mo Jam, you're not only getting unique and delicious food options, but you're also contributing to the local economy and helping to preserve the character of our community. Whether you're a foodie, a parent looking for healthy options, or simply someone who appreciates the value of hard work and dedication, Mo Jam is definitely worth checking out.

Hanson's story is also a reminder that time is a precious commodity. As she says, "If you make money and..." – the implication is clear: time is what truly matters. By prioritizing family, community, and passion, Hanson has created a business that brings people together and celebrates the beauty of homemade, small-batch production. So, next time you're at a local market or event, be sure to stop by Mo Jam's table and taste the difference for yourself. With her youngest daughter, Faith, serving as her official taste tester, you can be sure that every product is made with love and care.