PLC sets new medical center fundraiser

VW independent/submitted information

Pregnancy Life Center has hired a director for its new medical clinic and has scheduled a fundraiser to help raise money for the new project.

The center, which has been in existence since 1999, has hired several new staff members and created new programs, but none to compare with where it is currently heading. After years of wanting to be a medical clinic, this is now becoming a reality.

As amazing as this endeavor is, it is also a daunting task, since the center needs to raise $110,000 to pay for the program. However, the PLC staff and board are up to the challenge, believing that the same community that has embraced and financially supported the center since 1999 will help bring this new vision to fruition.

There are several reasons why the center is converting to a medical clinic. First, the changeover will increase the overall number of clients. By offering ultrasounds and STD testing, the center will appeal to a wider range of individuals, therefore increasing the number of people hearing their life-affirming, abstinence, and faith-based message.

Second, the center will attract more women who are abortion minded. The statistics show the center is still not meeting the needs of at-risk mothers in the community, and it is crucial that the needs of mothers facing an unplanned pregnancy are met by a medical clinic. Being the pro-life agency the center is, the fact that there were 137 reported abortions in the counties they serve demonstrates the need for the center to become a clinic.

Third, the PLC wants to empower women to choose life, and the use of medical resources, such as ultrasound, have proven to be effective tools in doing so. As a non-medical center, only 20 percent of women at risk for abortion will change their mind; whereas 80 percent of at-risk women who viewed their baby via ultrasound will change theirs.

Fourth, the center needs to increase its competitive advantage. Just like any company competes for patrons, pregnancy centers have to compete with abortion providers. By building a foundation of integrity and offering quality services, a medical clinic can provide superior services that help mothers in the decision making process of an unplanned pregnancy.

Fifth, as a medical clinic, the center will gain credibility in the community. By converting, it will be seen as a bona-fide pregnancy resource to individuals and professionals in the community because the medical clinic title communicates that the center provides skilled and quality services. In part, this has already been accomplished through the PLC’s medical director, Dr. Matthew Miller, and will be further demonstrated through the hiring of RNs to run the clinic.

Finally, the community has shown the need for more STD testing clinics. Statistics show that more than half of all people will have a STD at some point in their lifetime, while about half of all new STDs occur among youths ages 15-24. Annually, one in four teens contracts an STD, and that half of sexually active people will contract a STD by age 25. The PLC’s message of abstinence will help combat this growing problem among youths and young adults.

The first fundraiser for the medical clinic, a banquet at Willow Bend Country Club in Van Wert, is coming up Sunday, April 24, starting at 5:30 p.m. The PLC board underwrites the meal, with Willow Bend providing a generous discount.

Local architect Drew Anderson is working on a plan to be revealed that evening showing what the clinic will look like. Those attending will also get a chance to hear from Dr. Miller for the first time, as well as from newly hired nurses. The goal that evening is to try to raise the full $110,000 needed so there will not be the need for further medical fundraisers.

That night, the PLC will simply be requesting a commitment from individuals attending, since the actual funds are not due until September. As a way to say “thank you”, anyone committing to $1,000 or more will have their names placed on the Founders’ Plaque in the clinic.

At this time, there are still a few spots available for the banquet. Those interested in attending may contact the PLC by Monday, April 18, with the number of spots they would like to reserve. This can be done via email (trinaplc@embarqmail.com), phone (419.238.9177), or by messaging the center on Facebook.