God Continues to Open Doors at First Choice for Women!

by Lisa Miller

“At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ”~ Colossians 4:3

A few weeks after our banquet, we were approached by the new director of Hope Pregnancy & Health Center (Hope) in Anderson for help. They were struggling with their current business model, as they were only able to see clients by appointment, and wanted to know how our ministry operated. Of course we very happy to help in any way possible.

I shared Hope’s request with our Board and they gave me their blessing to investigate what was happening in Anderson and explore what the Lord might have us do to assist them. As I had additional conversations with Chara, the new Executive Director of Hope, it soon became apparent that we had the same vision for our respective communities and the same heart and passion for this type of ministry. I found myself saying, “Chara, this is a crazy question, but would you be interested in exploring a partnership with another pregnancy center, like First Choice?” I will never forget the excitement in her voice when she said, “that is a great idea!” I told her to check out our website and speak to her Board and I would present the concept to my Board as well. We agreed to pray and see how God would lead.

Those first couple of conversations led to other meetings, and in January the Board of Hope and the Board of First Choice, agreed to an “adoption”. Hope Pregnancy Center would become First Choice for Women of Anderson, with First Choice becoming the “adoptive parents”, providing infrastructure for the center. That would include paid staff, services, training, advertising, and oversight so that the Anderson center could strengthen its presence and expand its services in the community. Chara would become our Development Director and provide input, networking assistance and financial growth for the ministry in Anderson.

As you can imagine, there is a lot to be done, and a number of things that will need to fall in place in order to open our doors in Anderson – much of which is greatly dependent upon the support of our collective communities.

Will you cover us in prayer?

Opening in Anderson is going to bring a greater level of scrutiny because we will be a greater priority for the enemy. After all, we are moving into new territory! We know that we need to put on our spiritual armor and that we need people to pray, pray, pray!

Would you consider supporting us financially?

We need your help in raising the additional $115,000 required annually to operate a second location.

Would you consider volunteering?

We need dozens of new volunteers in all areas: meeting with clients, answering phones, data entry, washing baby clothes etc.

If you have been to my office, you may have noticed a large quote on my wall, “With God all thing are possible”. It is a reminder that He can make a way where there seems no way. I am very hopeful for this opportunity and am grateful to all who have helped us through the many doors opened for First Choice over the past 30 years.