The Pregnancy Resource Center – A Place of Hope held its annual Spring Partnership Dinner on Thursday, April 28 at the Sardinia Church of Christ. There were nearly 250 supporters, staff and volunteers in attendance. Harriett Jackson, Brown County native and singer was the Emcee for the event. She welcomed the guests and introduced vice-chairman of the PRC Board of Directors, David Sharp, who offered a blessing for the meal. David and Amanda Lessing from the Cincinnati area gave a concert during dinner. A meal of beef brisket, green beans, garlic mashed potatoes, coleslaw, rolls, and assorted pies was supplied by The Home Place. Following the meal, Client Services and Volunteer Director, Lainey Staggs recognized the PRC volunteers and Board of Directors. Mrs. Staggs spoke of the appreciation she and the PRC staff has for the many supporters who through the years have made it possible for this organization to serve families with infants and toddlers. Julie Kuebler, Abortion Recovery Consultant, spoke on the FREE to Heal program offered by the PRC to women struggling with the aftereffects of an abortion. The acronym Free stands for Forgiveness, Recovery, Everlasting Encouragement. Then a representative of Students for Life, Jordan Moorman, spoke on the goals of his organization to involve younger people in joining the cause of protecting the unborn. Following him, Tamma Plymesser, PRC Executive Director, spoke briefly on the theme of the evening, “Cloud of Witnesses.” She shared that the path to the PRC was forged by those who have gone on before, enabling current PRC staff to continue the work. She also shared how the clients who are successfully accomplishing their parenting journey are witnesses to those who come after them. Their encouragement enables expectant parents to choose the path of parenthood.
The featured speaker for the evening, Joe Knopp, director of Unplanned, I Can Only Imagine, Woodlawn and The Trump I Know was introduced and brought an inspiring message. He spoke on the fact that everyone has a story, whether they recognize it or not. He spoke of the importance of helping each other tell our stories. The Pregnancy Resource Center – A Place of Hope and other organizations like it are important in helping women and families in the midst of an unexpected pregnancy recognize the importance of their own story and the story of their baby.
After Mr. Knopp’s speech, the Chairman of the Pregnancy Resource Board of Directors addressed the group. He expressed his appreciation for the financial support given through the years which enables the PRC to provide services to expectant women and families with infants and toddlers here in Brown County. At this time, those present were given an opportunity to support the Center financially.
Next, a coverlet made and donated by Cindy Collins, owner of Little Lamb and Ewe Woolens, located in Cinncinnati, was auctioned, with the proceeds to go to the PRC. Two quilts made and donated by members of Mt. Nebo Methodist church were also auctioned, as well a DVD of the movie, Unplanned, which was signed by producer, Joe Knobb. Also during the evening, the Ripley Council #2374 of the Knights of Columbus presented a check to PRC Director to be used to provide services to clients. Overall, with donations and auction proceeds, the PRC received over $25,000 which will be used to fund the services offered. Some of the expenses of the dinner were underwritten by The Home Place, Paul Hall & Associates Insurance, Plymesser Construction and Nancy Mays Photography. The evening ended with closing remarks and prayer by Pastor Mike Starkey of Mt. Nebo United Methodist Church.
The PRC is a Christian, non-profit, life-affirming organization whose desire is to inspire hope to women experiencing an unintended pregnancy, giving all the opportunity to choose life for their child. They are committed to helping women and their families by providing accurate information, emotional support and practical assistance. Families, both single parent and two-parent, are given the opportunity to not only earn material goods for their children, but also to improve their parenting skills. Items such as cribs, car seats, clothing, diapers, formula and wipes can be earned by the clients by participating in parenting classes. Free, confidential pregnancy tests are also offered. Those in need of PRC services is encouraged to make an appointment by calling 937-378-6853. A Place of Hope is located at 852 Mt. Orab Pike in Georgetown, Ohio. Their hours are Mondays and Thursdays, 10 am to 4 pm; and Tuesdays, 10 am to 8 pm and Wednesdays, 2 pm to 6 pm. Members of the community who are interested in learning how they can support the PRC are welcome to stop in during regular business hours.