Operations Overview: A Year of Accomplishments
by Lisa Miller, Executive Director
When I look back on my nearly two years as Executive Director at First Choice for Women what immediately comes to mind is “with God all things are possible”. I’ve seen prayer answered, and what could only be described as miracles from God come to pass. Almost daily I learn to lean more on - and trust more in - Him; because He is truly the one leading this ministry. What has been accomplished in my time here as director has been done so by the grace of God, and to Him I give all the glory and praise!In 2015 the First Choice for Women’s Board of Directors developed a strategic plan that was shared at last year’s banquet as well as in the October 2014 issue of First Choice Quarterly. I am happy to say that we are on track to accomplish those goals before year end. We have:
- developed a budget that reflects the ministries priorities and commitment to good stewardship
- reviewed and updated board policies in all areas of operations
- developed and implemented a “Life Ambassador” program for churches and other like-minded organizations to strengthen and expand our relationships in the community
- created a plan to promote a faith-based abstinence program and are now offering that program to churches and their youth groups
- began completing critical repairs to our building
In addition, as you may have read in the Ultrasound Update, we have now realized a long time dream by becoming a medical clinic and can offer sonograms to women facing an unplanned pregnancy!It’s Not Over YetFirst Choice has truly had a year of successes. We had a record breaking banquet, near record breaking walk, very generous one-time donations, and the continued support of our monthly donors. But the year is not over yet. From a financial perspective, we still have quite a way to go.While our events have been extremely successful in helping close the gap between income and expenses, as of mid-October First Choice is operating at a net negative income of approximately ($7,000). An overall decrease in non-event related monthly giving and increased one-time expenses associated with the launch of the ultrasound and building repairs, have led to budgetary challenges. With just over 2 months left in 2015, we anticipate a shortfall in income and do not expect to meet this year’s $262,000 budget.I am grateful for the cash reserves from 2014 that have allowed First Choice to push forward without incurring any additional debt. I am also confident, and fully trust that God will make a way, as he always does, through the hearts and generosity of His people.The annual banquet brought forth 34 new monthly donors, and just today we had 2 more monthly supports join us in the life-saving work of First Choice. These 36 new contributors will increase income by $1,355 per month.My hope for 2016 is that we can continue to close the roughly $6,000 gap between regular monthly expenses and recurring monthly donations in order to move away from our dependency on events…which are generally unpredictable and difficult to plan a budget around. To some this may seem like a huge leap of faith, but I know, with God all things are possible!
