PRESQUE ISLE — The 13th annual Pregnancy Care Center Fundraising Banquet was held Oct. 22 and raised just over $24,000 to help the center continue its work.
The theme was “30 Years of Changing Lives,” and about 200 dinner guests turned out for the event at the Presque Isle Inn and Convention Center. The room was energized with 200 dinner guests who enjoyed a wonderful meal, special music by Kelly O’Mara, and heard several clients share their stories of how the Pregnancy Care Center made a difference in their lives.
“As we look back over the years, we are so thankful for the many businesses, individual donors, and churches who have given to this Center,” said Christie Corey, executive director. “It is truly amazing that a nonprofit organization would not only survive during some economically challenging times, but expand and thrive.
“Since the PI office opened in 1985, two satellite offices have opened,” continued Corey. “We live in a community made up of individuals who are very generous and willing to help others.”
The Presque Isle Pregnancy Care Center opened in 1985 and has grown significantly over the past 30 years. At first, the center offered pregnancy tests, maternity and infant clothing. Its reach has expanded as it now offers services and educational programs such as post-abortion counseling, parenting classes and a survivor intervention program.
Additionally, the Give Moms Credit Program allows clients to earn “mommy money” to purchase baby furniture at Walmart or Kmart, and the center is now developing a program for dads.
According to Corey, fathers are involved in the parenting program and some of them do participate in the Give Moms Credit Program; however, recognizing how important the role of the father is, staff want dads to have material and information to empower them as fathers.
The PCC was presented with a plaque recognizing its 30 years of faithful service to the community. The satellite office in Houlton was also recognized for 15 years of service to that area, and was presented with a plaque.
Twenty-two volunteers were acknowledged for their faithful service to the center with a certificate and a flower. Pat Foster, Houlton center director, is stepping down from her position, but will continue to be part of the center by serving as a volunteer. Her faithful years of service as a center director were marked with the presentation of a picture and certificate.
“I would like to especially thank our table hosts and hostesses, who invited their friends and business associates to sit at their table,” Corey added. “As a result of the hard work of our hosts and hostesses, we increased the number of dinner guests and saw many new faces who for the first time heard about the Pregnancy Care Center.”
Corey also expressed gratitude to businesses who support the PCC. “I want to especially thank the businesses who have sponsored the banquet. Many of them sponsor our banquet year after year and we really appreciate their willingness to give generously,” she said.All PCC services are free and confidential. The center is a nonprofit, non-denominational, faith-based organization serving the pregnancy-related needs of women for 30 years. For more information or to donate, call 764-0022 or 554-8396.
