BIRTHRIGHT'S DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE

For nearly 30 years a small, little-known organization called Birthright has offered the best efforts of its Christian volunteers to provide positive alternatives to abortion. Headed locally by longtime director Dolores Mier, Birthright has assisted thousands of girls and women in trouble with pregnancy tests, counseling, support, adoption referrals, financial assistance, lodging and more. For the first time in that history, Birthright held its state convention here in Cape Girardeau County.

"Our primary goal is getting women immediate help," Birthright national director Terry Weaver told a group of more than 100 volunteers gathered in Fruitland. "Instead of telling people not to have abortions, we're working to help girls and women have healthy babies."

Weaver said a main concern facing volunteers is how they will meet increased demands as welfare reform begins to take effect. "We want to be there for them," said Weaver.

Birthright was created by a pro-life activist who had tired of political battles, and Weaver stressed that the organization stays away from political issues. We join with many others is saluting the dedicated volunteers of Birthright in the vital work they do.