One of the foundational programs of Muskegon Pregnancy Services (MPS) is our parenting class, called RiseUp. Once a week, pregnant moms, moms with babies under 2 years old, and dads with a baby meet directly with one of our trained volunteer Advocates to go through an educational video, answer questions, and build a trusting relationship where they can share encouragement and life’s difficulties. During this time, parents earn points toward various baby items that they can shop for in our Baby Boutique. Ultimately, our Advocates are there to show moms and dads they are not alone in this journey.
Recently, we met with an advocate, Audrey, to learn more about why being an advocate for MPS is an enriching and life-giving experience for her.
When did you become an Advocate?
“I believe it was April, last year, 2023. I had been an Advocate before, but I didn’t actually get into it. I was doing the shadowing thing and then it didn’t work out. So, I never actually got to get in there and do the Advocate thing. [Training] is an ongoing process. I am always wanting to grow in that.”
Why did you decide to become an Advocate?
“Because I can relate with them. I was 17 when I got pregnant the first time, and luckily I had my family that supported me. But I didn’t know about this place then, and that would have been wonderful to have.”
What impact has being an Advocate made on your own life? What have you learned?
“I’m learning to trust God a lot more because sometimes it can be pretty overwhelming on how to just how to really reach them. So I really have to trust [God] to do the leading. Because with just myself, I’d I have no idea what to do here, because there are so many different backgrounds with the ladies that we support.”
What experience has stuck out most to you?
“There was one girl, her baby, was supposed to be born with Dandy-Walker Syndrome, but they were really coming across that there was going to be some major issues, and and we prayed for her and over her. And the baby’s fine. She’s meeting all her milestones. The Lord works!”
Why should others become an Advocate for MPS?
“Well, there’s a great need, first of all, and it feels good to be able to to touch a life, even though I feel sometimes like I’m not adequate. I have heard from one of the girls, at least, that she really appreciates that I’m here for her because sometimes I don’t feel like I’m doing enough, saying the right things, and she’s like, ‘oh, I’m just so grateful you’re here.’ Oh, that’s wonderful to hear!”
Advocates Encourage Others and Encourage Themselves
Stories like Audrey’s mark the impact of Muskegon Pregnancy Services in the lives of those in the community, all the way from those we serve to those who serve with us.
If you are interested in becoming an advocate to make an impact in a mom or dad’s life, please click below to fill out an Interest Form!
