Celebrating 30 Years of Hope!

by Sari Harris, Board Secretary

Supporters of First Choice for Women enjoyed a spectacular evening and made a statement for the cause of Life on Thursday, October 13th. Over 400 people joined us as we celebrated 30 years of proclaiming a message of hope to women and families in Muncie and Delaware County.

Ted Baker, one of the early architects of the organization (then known as Heart to Heart), regaled those present with the story of this ministry’s humble beginnings in 1986. As he and the other founders considered the cultural landscape of their time, they wondered, “What can we do?” and establishing a crisis pregnancy center was the answer. It was not only a way to help girls understand that the baby they were carrying was a precious life, but it was also a way to provide emotional and material support as they travel down the path of motherhood. Three decades later their dream continues to make a difference in the hearts and lives of young mothers.

It was inspiring to hear from one of our early clients and follow the journey she and her family had taken. Upon meeting with center volunteers it was evident that the young girls’ parents’ hearts were impacted. As God worked in their lives, their determination for her to abort the unborn child changed to encouragement to carry the baby to term. The crowd was elated as “baby Isaiah” - now over 20 years old! - stood up in the midst of the audience with his grandparents! This young man’s life is a tremendous testament to the work of First Choice.

The challenge to continue doing this important work for another 30 years was laid before everyone present and accepted whole-heartedly! With $34,024 raised that night, $8,850 in sponsorships, and $2,215 in monthly donation commitments, the annualized total for this year’s event is nearly $64,000! Surpassing our goal by $9,000!

We would like to thank everyone who participated in this milestone event – you truly save and change lives in our community! THANK YOU!