PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER OF METRO RICHMOND Serving women and men unprepared for pregnancy since 1983 1510 Willow Lawn Drive, Ste 200, Richmond VA 23230 • (804) 673-4150 • www.friendsofprcrichmond.org You have granted me life and steadfast love, And your care has preserved my spirit. Job 10:12 (ESV) As we partner together to compassionately serve women and men unprepared for pregnancy, we remember that life is a gift, lovingly granted to us by God Himself and that His watchful care guards our every breath. Everyone here from the receptionists to the counselors are all friendly and inviting. The atmosphere is calming and inviting. The people here care about you and your situation regardless of their own. Having someone that cares so much about you is a breath of fresh air. Thank you for everything. We are so thankful for our faithful volunteers and donors who help us provide a safe place where the gift of life is cherished, respected and affirmed! The compassion my counselor gave me about my pregnancy… I felt like I really mattered here and felt like family. 2014 Client 2014 Client FALL 2014
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PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER OF METRO RICHMOND Serving women and men unprepared for pregnancy since 1983 1510 Willow Lawn Drive, Ste 200, Richmond VA 23230 • (804) 673-4150 • www.friendsofprcrichmond.org
You have granted me life and steadfast love, And your care has preserved my spirit.
Job 10:12 (ESV)
As we partner together to compassionately serve women and men unprepared for pregnancy, we remember that life is a gift, lovingly granted to us by God Himself and that His watchful care guards our every breath.
Everyone here from the receptionists to the counselors are all friendly and inviting. The atmosphere is calming and inviting. The people here care about you and your situation regardless of their own. Having someone that cares so much about you is a breath of fresh air. Thank you for everything.
We are so thankful for our faithful volunteers and donors who help us provide a safe place where the gift of life is cherished, respected and affirmed!
The compassion my counselor gave me about my pregnancy…
I felt like I really mattered here and felt like family.
2014 Client
2014 Client
FALL 2014
Overcoming the Fear Of “Doing It Alone”
Kim Warburton, LAS Executive Director
MISSION
The Pregnancy Resource Center of Metro Richmond is committed to
providing compassionate care to women and men unprepared for
pregnancy by offering resources and practical assistance for life-affirming choices.
BOARD MEMBERS Chair: Greg Stivers Vice-Chair: Tim Callahan Treasurer: Richard Bozard Secretary Scottie Alley Lisa Blake Marty Lico Rick Wilson Kim Warburton MEDICAL ADVISORY BOARD John Pierce, MD John Seeds, MD Pat Hague, RN, BSN Sally Harbison, RN Asena Madison, MD Donald McLaren, MD Jonathan Schaaf, MD Lynn Bisbee, RNC,WHNP Katherine Young, RDMS Kim Warburton, ED
24-Hour Help Line (804) 673-2020
Material Donations Please call 673-2020 for drop-off times and directions.
1510 Willow Lawn Drive, Suite 200 Richmond, VA 23230 www.prcrichmond.org www.friendsofprcrichmond.org [email protected]
All of our services are free and confidential. We do not perform or refer for abortions.
On our journey through the rapids of life, nothing can keep God from finding and rescuing us.
The other day I was reminded of a white water rafting adventure I took down the Cheat
Cannon in West Virginia. White water rafting was new for me and I was a bit concerned
about getting in a raft with seven other people whom I did not know for such a journey.
Imagine my surprise when plans changed, due to lower water levels, and I was told that I had
to make the trip in a single raft. Are you kidding me? You want me to do this alone in white
water rapids - alone in my own boat? I did relax a smidge when I saw professional guides
standing in the midst of the rapids holding life-lines.
One of the reasons women tell us that they are considering abortion is the fear of “doing it
alone”. Parenting is a great adventure with times of rapid change and turbulence. It is a
journey in which we all need the love, help and support of others, especially in the early days
and in challenging seasons. Many of the women we serve
have already experienced painful life challenges. They
come to the PRC a bit concerned about sharing their stories
and circumstances with other people they do not know. Our
client advocates who seek to exhibit love and grace to each
one are there to hold out the life-line.
For some clients, it seems that their relationships are floating
through the sparkling still waters until they discover that
they are pregnant and their partner is no longer interested in
them or their baby. In our options counseling we offer to
share the option of adoption which is such a beautiful option. It reminds me of the adventurous rafting journey Moses
took down the Nile which was just the beginning of the amazing things that God had planned for Moses and His people!
Each life is precious and unique. As image bearers of God we have the unique capacity to receive His love and to love
others. Like Moses, we each have an individual purpose and plan designed by God before we were conceived that only
we can fulfill.
As you read this newsletter I hope you will get a glimpse of the ways that God is using you through your partnership with
the PRC of Metro Richmond to impact lives.
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you; and when you pass through
the rivers, they will not sweep over you....
For I am the LORD your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; Isaiah 43:2a & 3a
CLIENT SERVICES STAFF (804) 673-2020 Center Director: Orcile Barrett Nurse Manager: Lynn Bisbee, RNC,WHNP Assistant Center Director: Cynthia Yount Director of PERC: Alison Brown Staff Nurse: Pat Hague, RN, BSN Reception: Rebecca Jones & Marla Phillips
ADMINISTRATION STAFF (804) 673-4150 Executive Director: Kim Warburton Office Administrator: Carol Wray Communications Assistant: Janet Westbrook
Having Someone to Talk to Who Cares
“… they make you feel at home and comfortable, coming as you are.” 2014 Client When I first met Lisa* I prayed, “God don’t allow me to judge her by the way she looks. Help me to minister to her with the same compassion you show me over and over again”. Lisa was wearing a cut off shirt which revealed the large tattoos that covered her arms and her chest. Her hair was dyed a very bright orange red and was spiked all over her head. Initially it was very hard to see past all of this. When I looked closer I could see a beautiful young woman with eyes that reflected a life full of hurt, rejection and disappointment. Before beginning the session I quickly whispered “Holy Spirit lead me in the way you want me to minister”.
I started off by asking the general questions on the intake form. Lisa openly shared about the difficulty she was going through. She talked about the abusive relationship she had finally been able to escape from and sorrowfully stated that she was estranged from her family. I was taken aback by the many heartbreaking circumstances in her life. More recently, out of desperation and in order to stay off the streets, having nowhere else to go, she moved in with a male friend and subsequently became pregnant. She cried sorrowfully over past decisions: she really wanted to give this child life. She wondered if her life could ever be better...
Sharing the resources and referrals just didn’t seem to be enough. Being led by the Holy Spirit I was able to share the Gospel with her. With permission I closed the session in prayer. I prayed that God would provide for her spiritual and physical needs, and I whispered my own prayer, “Thank you God for the privilege and joy of meeting her and for calling me to this ministry”.
Each client situation is so unique. We have a great opportunity here at the PRC to pray and reflect God’s heart for all who are made in His image: to bear witness to His faithfulness, forgiveness and love as we serve each client. I pray on every occasion that we are able to make a kingdom impact in the lives of our clients. In His power and strength we can share His love and mercy and lead others to Christ.
*Names changed to protect confidentiality.
She cried sorrowfully over past decisions: she really wanted to give this child life. She wondered if her life could ever be better...
Intervention Services 1,854 Total visits 820 New cases opened 361 Free ultrasounds performed 656 Free pregnancy tests 89 Men’s ministry visits 448 Bottles of prenatal vitamins provided for clients
PERC (Parenting, Education and Resource Center) 589 Clients’ visits for the mom support groups, parenting classes and Birth of a Family 46 Maternity Clothes provided for clients 652 Baby clothes provided for clients 359 Diapers/formula provided for clients
SERVICES PROVIDED FROM JANUARY THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2014
Prayed with 586 clients and shared the gospel with 195 clients. 44 Committed their lives to Christ!
What our clients found most helpful about their visit…
♦ Knowing even your 1st time meeting a person you feel in your heart they care.
♦ The kindness of my counselor and her compassion. I appreciate that she was not judgmental in any way
towards me because of mistakes in my past.
♦ The Bible and other information provided to me today to give me better understanding of my pregnancy.
♦ Being able to express myself and have someone to listen.
Orcile Barrett Center Director
Center Staff Changes at the PRC God prepares the way and provides for the needs of the ministry.
After five years of serving at the PRC, Laura Huitt has resigned her position as Assistant Center Director to return to full time work as a Speech Therapist. We will miss Laura tremendously and all that she brought to the PRC but also pray God's best for her as she moves forward in obedience.
Cynthia Yount, who did a great job as one of our receptionists, has graciously stepped into the role of Assistant Center Director. We believe God has prepared Cynthia for this position of greater responsibility and that He con-tinues to equip her in her new role.
One of our very own client advocates, Marla Phillips, has come on board as front office Receptionist. Marla's compassionate nature, administrative experience and organizational skills make her a wonderful addition to our PRC team. Please join us in prayer for all of these ladies as they transition into their new roles.
PRC Welcomes Staff Members
A few words from Cynthia Yount, PRC Assistant Center Director.
It has been such a privilege to serve in the ministry of the PRC for the past year and a half as part-time receptionist. When I started Volunteer Training in February 2013, I thought I would be train-ing to volunteer at the center; however, God had a different plan for me to serve as staff alongside the many faithful volunteers here in the front office. God blessed, challenged, and taught me so much during that time. I have watched as Laura has handled all the responsibilities of her position so capably with a gentle spirit, calmness, grace, and a true love for the clients and volunteers. Stepping into a position that has been so well managed is honestly a bit daunting to me, but I know that God has called me and
that he works through me to achieve His purposes. I do look forward to what the Lord has in store and the opportunity to work more closely with all of our staff and volunteers as we serve our clients together.
Introducing Marla Phillips, Receptionist
I started volunteering at the PRC in October of last year. I had heard about the beautiful ministry provided here but never thought to join until the PRC Volunteer Coordinator asked me to pray about volunteering. I quickly realized this was where the Lord was leading and have since enjoyed my time learning and serving alongside so many wonderful people who truly have a heart for the hurting women and families here in Richmond. Growing up as a child of a large missionary family I have always had a heart for serving oth-ers. I am so very blessed to say that I feel God has specifically directed my steps to this point where I gladly accept the responsibilities in serving as a receptionist in order to further aid the mission of the PRC. I am truly excited to watch and participate in what the Lord continues to do through the ministry here.
...so that the servant of God
may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:17
ORIENTATION / GATHERING
Thursday, December 4th, 7:00—8:30 p.m. For more information and to RSVP contact Cynthia Yount, Volunteer Coordinator, at [email protected] or (804) 673-2020. Please RSVP by November 26th.
WINTER VOLUNTEER TRAINING
Saturday, February 7th, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 12th, 19th, 26th & March 5th & 12th,
either 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. or 6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
For more information and to register contact Cynthia Yount at [email protected] or (804) 673-2020. Please register by January 12th.
The Gift of Service
There are many opportunities for you to serve at the PRC.
Often we approach volunteering from the perspective of what we have to offer: wondering if we have the ability to make a difference in the lives of those we service. While our own skill set is important, what really matters is how God empowers and uses the abilities of a person yielded to His service. Here at the PRC these yielded-to-God servants are called Volunteers and they are the lifeline of the ministry.
Here are some of the volunteer opportunities at the PRC.
Serving In the Crisis Client Advocates (male and female) are trained volunteers who minister to the clients who are involved in an unplanned pregnancy when they visit the center. Helpline Operators are trained volunteers who minister to the prospective client from their own home through our 24-hour Helpline.
Serving After the Crisis PERC Volunteers are trained volunteers who minister to clients who have decided to parent, assisting them with spiritual, practical, and material needs. Class Leaders are trained volunteers who lead Parenting Classes, Support Groups, and Bible Studies. Birth of a Family Coaches are trained volunteers who facilitate this motherhood / fatherhood initiative.
Serving to Prevent Crisis Choosing the Best Presenters are trained volunteers who present our eight week, evidence-based, abstinence-centered healthy relationship curriculum in our community.
Serving to Heal the Pain Post-Abortive Bible Study Leaders help women find freedom and healing through the study of God's Word.
Serving through Reach Out Church Liaisons work as advocates for the PRC within their own churches, presenting the PRC as a local mission opportunity and encouraging their church to become involved.
Are you sensing that God is leading you to become involved? We will train you!
Our "Equipped to Serve" training class teaches you how to be a more effective listener, how to speak the truth in love and how to minister without manipulating. Following training we provide one-on-one mentoring as you serve.
For more information contact Cynthia Yount at 673-2020
For Gifts , Prayer Requests and Information about the PRC
I want to serve with the PRC through a gift of:
□$50.00 □$100.00 □$250.00 □other $______
I want to serve with the PRC with a monthly gift of
$______beginning _______. Please contact me.
Name: _________________________________
Address: __________________________________
__________________________________
Phone: _________________________________
Emails: __________________________________
Contributions can also be made online through our
friendsofprcrichmond.org website.
____ I am interested in learning more about how I can become a
volunteer at the PRC.
____ I would like to receive information about how my church can get
involved with the PRC.
____ I / My church or group would like information about the Baby Bot-
tle Campaign.
The PRC staff meets to pray each day before our center opens.
We would consider it an honor to pray for any personal requests
you may have.
_______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
Please complete the following information as applicable and return in the enclosed addressed envelope.
You can give to the PRC through the United Way Campaign. For the United Way Campaign, the PRC is considered a Private Business (non-government). Donors should fill in the name and address of the PRC of Metro Richmond in the section titled, "Specific Care" at the bottom right of the form.
· #3014 for Agency Code · #117 for Local Campaign · #98488 for Federal Campaign
You can give a gift of stock to the PRC. Gifts of appreciated stock are particularly wise from a tax perspective, since there are no capital gains paid, and the giver receives a tax deduction of the full face amount. If you are interested in donating stock or mutual funds and would like more informa-tion please contact Carol Wray, Office Administrator at (804) 673-4150.
You can raise funds for the PRC of Metro Richmond when you shop at Kroger and swipe your Kroger Plus card. You will need to create an account online at kroger.com/communityrewards to register your Kroger Plus card number and select the Pregnancy Resource Center of Metro Richmond (NPO 86868) as your or-ganization. Swipe your card each time you shop and the PRC will reap the rewards.
Thank You Saint Gabriel’s Catholic Church! We are so grateful for the generous donation of baby supplies, gift cards, and cash from the parishioners of Saint Gabriel’s Catholic Church, in Chesterfield. God Bless you!
Did You Know … ?
Our 2015 theme, 'The Gift of Life' and the accompanying verse from the book of Job beautifully summarizes the underpinning philosophy of the PRC mission: Life is a gift from God and He guards our well being throughout life. As beneficiaries of God's amazing gifts of life, love and care, we are motivated to share these gifts with others.
As Christians, we often hear we are to be Christ's hands and feet. Meaning our actions should be real, tangible expres-sions of Christ's love and care to those in need. Today, here in the Richmond Metro area, there are women and men facing an unplanned pregnancy with fear and uncertainty, desperately yearning for sincere love and care. Some of the women and men who come to the PRC are so beaten down by the circumstances of their lives that the thought of
parenting is overwhelming. Some feel so pulled and torn by what their friends and family think they should do that they don't see life as the gift it really is.
You and your church can help us care for these.
January 18th, 2015 is Sanctity of Human Life Sunday and while it should be
unnecessary to celebrate something as fundamental as the intrinsic value of
human life, it is a great opportunity for Christ-followers to live out their values
and to get involved loving and caring for others through the work of the PRC.
Sanctity of Human Life Sunday is a great opportunity to get
involved loving and caring for others through the work of the
PRC
You have granted me life and steadfast love, And your care has preserved my spirit. Job 10:12 (ESV)
Here are some way that you and your church can get involved:
♦ Attend the PRC Orientation / Gathering, on Thursday, December 4th, 2014. This will be held at 1510 Willow Lawn Drive, Suite 216, from 7 pm to 8:30 pm and will include a tour of the center and an overview of how we serve and how to become involved.
♦ Consider Volunteering at the PRC (see page 5 of newsletter for details).
♦ Host a Gathering for your church family at the PRC.
♦ Contact the PRC to have a representative come to share the PRC mission with your congregation or parish during a worship service or special group meetings.
♦ Order copies of our free bulletin insert to be used for Sanctity of Human Life Sunday or throughout the year.
♦ Conduct a Baby Bottle Campaign as an easy church-wide mission project to raise
funds.
For more information or to get involved in any of these opportunities contact
Registration begins at 6:15 p.m. Dinner & Program at 7:15 p.m.
It is not too late … register TODAY! www.friendsofprcrichmond.org
Phone: (804) 673-4150
“I enjoyed everything about my experience. I like the fact that they prayed with me and gave me valuable information about relationships, God, prayer and pregnancy results. Thank you!”
