Get to Know Us at Informed Choices
At Informed Choices, we provide men and women in Grayslake, IL, and Crystal Lake, IL, with help, understanding, and confidential, compassionate care. All our services are free of charge, and at our clinic you will receive non-judgmental support in your pregnancy decision.
If you find yourself in an unexpected pregnancy, you may feel like you have no one to talk to about it.
In this blog, we want to introduce you to Sarah, the Executive Director, to help you learn more about the kind of person you will meet at Informed Choices. She has answered some questions to help you get to know more about what Informed Choices does and why they offer their services.
Sarah is very passionate about what she does, and she and her caring staff are people who you can confidently talk to if you find yourself or someone you may know, in an unplanned pregnancy and need help.
What is your hope for anyone who comes into your center?
I hope that anyone who visits Informed Choices feels listened to, understood, encouraged, and educated. Women and men deserve to be provided with complete, truthful information so they can make the pregnancy decision that’s best for them.
What is one thing you would say to anyone who is considering an abortion and/or is struggling from a past abortion?
There is no easy answer that makes your life feel normal again. Any pregnancy decision you make; abortion, adoption or parenting will forever change your life. Informed Choices is here to help you through your decision making process and it starts with just a phone call. We are here for you.
Why did you choose to run/get involved with a pregnancy center?
Twenty-one years ago, I first learned about Informed Choices and the ministry of pregnancy centers in general when a friend called to suggest I apply for the manager position for their new thrift shop location. I wasn’t sure about doing it, but decided to take the next step and apply.
Over the years, God continued to challenge and grow me as helping with bookkeeping and fundraising events, eventually led to the role of Business Manager. The one role I never considered or wanted was Executive Director. I did not want to be in a position where I would have to speak in front of a group of people! And, I definitely did not want to have to ask people for financial support. So when Informed Choices needed an Executive Director 6 years ago, it took some time for God to convince me I should take that next step He was calling me to. It was scary and I thought there must be someone else who would be better qualified. But then, I remembered a bible study I had done about Jonah and how I didn’t think it applied to me…only now it did.
Looking back, I can clearly see how God brought me one step at a time to where He has called me to serve today; including being comfortable speaking in public and talking with potential donors!
Why is your center’s mission so important to you?
Honestly, when I started at the resale shop, I agreed with the mission of Informed Choices, but it was more about a job than a strong passion for the mission. However, as I learned more about the ministry and heard the stories of lives that had been saved and changed, I really understood the value of Informed Choices. I have seen couples journey from panicked to prepared; from considering abortion to confident parents and thriving families.
How has Covid-19 affected your day-to-day operations?
Following careful screening and cleaning procedures, our centers have remained open to offer pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and education about pregnancy options. Appointments are now required and guests are limited.
We are now offering our Healthy Pregnancy & Early Parenting Program remotely. These educational materials are an invaluable resource for any new parent or soon-to-be parent.
What is something you would like to share with your community?
Informed Choices is a great first step for anyone making a pregnancy decision, because at Informed Choices, someone will take the time to listen and learn about a woman’s unique situation. She may be offered an ultrasound to determine how far along she is and if the pregnancy is viable. She will receive truthful information about all of her options; abortion, adoption, and parenting.
Informed Choices is a safe place– a place where she isn’t judged or pressured or a factor in our bottom line because all our services are completely free of charge.
We provide a place where she is encouraged to take the time she needs before making her decision. A place that connects her with community resources for things like medical care, housing or childcare. A place she can learn about healthy pregnancy and parenting all while earning points for needed baby items.
How can those in your community help with your centers work?
First, if you know someone facing an unplanned pregnancy, encourage them to call Informed Choices. They need someone who understands their situation and can walk with them through this journey.
Secondly, I would encourage people to shop, donate or volunteer at one of our 2 New Life Resale locations. They are located in Grayslake and Wauconda and all proceeds provide valuable support for the operation of our Pregnancy Centers.
Contact Us Today
At Informed Choices, all our services are free of charge, so call, text, or visit us online today to schedule an appointment, or stop by our clinic at any time for non-judgmental support in your pregnancy decision. We are here for you.
- Grayslake, IL: Call or Text: (847) 650-5864
- Crystal Lake, IL: Call: (815) 455-0965 – Text: (847) 421-1446