THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, September 14, 1995 TAG: 9509130146
SECTION: SUFFOLK SUN PAGE: 10 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY TRUDY CUTHRELL, CORRESPONDENT
LENGTH: Medium: 97 lines
The Suffolk Extension of the Crisis Pregnancy Center of Tidewater Inc. will hold its first Benefit Golf Tournament Tuesday, Oct. 17, at Suffolk Golf Course.
``We're placing the emphasis on fun, fellowship and fund-raising,'' said Patty Blanchard, CPC volunteer and former Suffolk director.
``We want men and women to sign up to come and enjoy themselves,'' added Betty Sprague, new director of the Suffolk center. ``An added benefit is that this event will help meet the financial needs of our ministry.''
Tee time for the tournament is 8 a.m. The cost is $80 per two-person team, including green fees, cart, prizes and refreshments. Entry deadline for this Captain's Choice event is Oct. 3. For registration forms, call Charlie or Patty Blanchard at 484-6639.
In April, the CPC of Tidewater Inc. celebrated its 10th anniversary with a gala banquet at The Founders Inn in Virginia Beach, featuring Dr. Beverly LaHaye, national director of Concerned Women for America.
CPC's first Hampton Roads center opened in Virginia Beach in 1985. Today, that center counsels more than 100 clients per month. The Suffolk center opened its doors in November 1988, and in October 1993 another satellite center opened at 5000 Portsmouth Blvd. to serve Portsmouth and Chesapeake.
Originally, CPC of Tidewater was formed by local citizens who shared a common commitment to help women, teens and families facing an unexpected or crisis pregnancy. Today, the ministry has expanded its outreach to meet community needs in the areas of prevention and healing.
What does CPC offer? Take Nicole, not her real name, as an example. She came to CPC frightened and overwhelmed. A free test revealed she was pregnant. Personal counseling helped her sort through her feelings and circumstances. Friendship through the center's Advocacy Program gave Nicole support and encouragement throughout her pregnancy and delivery.
Literature, videos and professional advice gave Nicole the educational support needed to equip her for motherhood. The center also provided referrals for financial aid, medical needs and housing.
After giving birth to healthy twins, Nicole received two infant layettes, a double stroller and other baby furniture and supplies. Today, Nicole still visits the center, with tots in tow, to express her gratitude for the support she received.
Hundreds of others like Nicole have entered Suffolk's Crisis Pregnancy Center to receive counseling and assistance. According to Sprague, that number is growing monthly with 75 clients receiving services since January.
``We don't think anyone comes through these doors by accident,'' Sprague admitted. ``They're all divine appointments.''
With a warm and friendly welcome, Sprague assures clients of her genuine concern and God's love for them. Along with volunteer staff, Sprague offers physical, emotional and spiritual support to those seeking assistance.
Blanchard said: ``We see people come in not knowing which way to turn. But as we minister to them and meet their needs, we see hope come back into their lives. I've been blessed and grown so much personally by being involved in this ministry.''
CPC is a nonprofit ministry that relies on contributions and church sponsorship for financial support. October's Benefit Golf Tournament will provide additional funding to expand its services.
When tee time rolls around Oct. 17, Sprague hopes to have a full roster of 120 golfers and 18 sponsors. ILLUSTRATION: Staff photo by JOHN H. SHEALLY II
Patty Blanchard, left, and Betty Sprague are planning a benefit golf
tourney.
Graphic
CLIENT SERVICES
Confidential help
Free pregnancy testing
Counseling
Education
Referrals
Maternity clothing
Infant clothing and equipment
``Pregnant, What Now?'' - a practical, hands-on course for
mothers-to-be, taught by a registered nurse. Course ends with a baby
shower for all participants.
``I'm Worth Waiting For'' - an abstinence-based look at sexual
issues encouraging commitment to sexual purity. Program includes
talks, skits, video presentations and personal testimonies.
Available free to churches, schools and organizations.
``PACE'' Bible Study - a support group for individuals dealing
with post abortion stress.
Advocate program - be a friend to someone who is going through
pregnancy and delivery. Education and professional training
provided.
Volunteer program - thorough education and training provided,
volunteers work on a rotating basis at Hampton Roads Crisis
Pregnancy Centers.
CPC Hotline: 24-hour service. Call 499-4444.
by CNB