April 8, 1998
Center celebrates 10 years of helping young mothers
By Carol South
Herald contributing writer
It was an emotional moment for Joy Wilson.
The Garfield Township resident was honored last Wednesday by the Pregnancy Resource Center for her commitment and volunteer time to a mission she reveres: saving and helping babies. As she wiped tears from her eyes, she reflected on her four years with the center.
"I've volunteered in other places, but I'd rather be here than anywhere else," said Wilson, who has a degree in ministry. "Some girls have no idea of where to go for help and we help them out. This is exciting work; a baby can be the beginning of something beautiful for a family."
Wilson was honored as part of the center's 10th anniversary open house, which invited volunteers, community residents and clients to tour the Eighth Street facility. While Christian radio station WLJN broadcast live, dozens of people came for the tour and to thank the center for its work.
"We help clients perform their own clinical pregnancy test, which is very empowering for them," said center director Rhonda Watson. "Then we talk with them about their options."
One of 3,500 crisis pregnancy centers nationwide, the Pregnancy Resource Center opened in Traverse City in 1988. Besides director Watson, the center has a part-time office manager and boasts a volunteer force of more than 40. The center also maintains a 24-hour hot line for crisis assistance and a small lending library.
Most of the pregnant women who come to the center are young, single and considering an abortion, Watson said. Although the center minces no words about its anti-abortion stance, it does provide information about the medical, emotional and health implications of such a decision. Volunteers also work closely with local adoption agencies and refer clients to them for assistance.
"We hope she does not choose abortion, but it is her decision," said Watson, who said the center follows a strict policy of honesty without coercion. "We are for life, and we will love the women and empower them with education, support and resources, no matter their decision."
One way the center supports women is through providing baby and maternity clothes, diapers, furniture, baby food and formula. A waiting list exists for items like cribs and bassinets, and the center always is looking for donations, Watson said.
Items are available to any woman who asks, no proof of need or proof of income is required, Watson said.
"I've gotten cribs, bassinets, diapers from them," said Abbie Nelson, a social worker in maternal support at Catholic Human Services. "We had one young woman going home from the hospital that day who did not have a crib. And with one call here, they got it for me."