In 2006 I was living in Chicago and began to feel a desire to volunteer for a women’s ministry. I had no idea what this would look like or where to start so I did a simple search online. I was lead to a pregnancy help center there in Chicago, and immediately it became clear that this was where I was supposed to be. I moved to Memphis in 2009, and some members of my church told me about Life Choices. God had definitely answered my prayer to be able do what I had grown to love- minister to women and teens who feel they have nowhere to turn for help when faced with an unplanned pregnancy. I quickly started volunteering at Life Choices.
Serving as a client advocate at Life Choices is one of the greatest blessings in my life! I get to share in the lives of the women who come to Life Choices. Every client is different, yet they are all anxious, afraid, and undecided. My goal is to always meet each mother where she is. I let her know that here she is in a safe, non-judgmental environment. It is important to listen to the client, not to give her advice. I also educate her and provide information and resources so that she can feel empowered to make a life-affirming decision for herself and her baby. We know that a relationship with Christ is important; so for those who will allow me, I share the love of God with them and pray for them.
Another aspect of being a client advocate is getting to follow up with our clients after that initial visit. It is an incredible joy to talk with a mother who had seen only one way, yet after her visit with us and our time together, she decided to have her baby and strives to be the best mom she can be!
What keeps me coming to volunteer at Life Choices is that I can encourage a mother and make a difference in her life by sharing hope.
-Cortez Wells
If you would like to volunteer at Life Choices email Shamiah HERE or call us 901-388-1172.
