In the Spring newsletter, I wrote about planting season–from the seeds I planted in my vegetable garden to the seeds we would be planting here at Options for Women-River Falls.
As you know, the weather did not cooperate with outside planting due to the cold temperatures. However, it did not prevent our staff, volunteers and me from continuing our planting efforts within the clinic. I mentioned that we had some seeds that we would be planting to help continue and expand the services we offer to the women, men, and families that come to us. Here is an update on how those seeds are growing, along with a few new ones we are adding.
Student Tours: We planted the seed of youth engagement through student clinic tours. We have welcomed several youth groups to tour the clinic and observe a live ultrasound demonstration performed by one of our nurses. The students get to see an actual ultrasound, hearing and seeing the heartbeat in the womb. They ask many interesting questions and leave with a deeper understanding of life in the womb.
Client Education: We have completed the conversion of our conference room into a classroom, with new furniture and a warm and inviting atmosphere. The classes will be taught by our nurses and trained client advocates on topics such as childbirth, breastfeeding, parenting, and more. Classes have already begun, and we encourage anyone interested to attend.
Youth Outreach: Parade season has begun, and we are excited to support youth groups and their ministries. When youth groups partner with us by participating in parades or events, they have the opportunity to earn funds or gift cards to help them with their ministry goals. We welcome all to attend, contact us for further information.
UWRF: Our goals continue to expand on campus, we have an intern that distributes flyers, posts information, and helps promote our services throughout campus. We are actively involved with Students for Life, and we are tabling on campus twice a month, sharing information about our free and confidential services available to all students. When classes resume in the fall, our staff and volunteers will also participate in Homecoming tailgating events and other campus events.
Rachel’s Vineyard: Healing the Pain of Abortion, one weekend at a time.
As we continue to nurture the seeds we have planted, we trust that the results will be long -lasting growth, for the clients we serve on a daily basis and for the families and communities in which they thrive.
–John R. Danneker, Executive Director
