Press Contact:
Mark McDougal
515-279-4661
rutharbor@rutharbor.org

	2003 Fundraising Banquet A Financial Success Community Members Rally To Support Ruth Harbor Pictures

December 8, 2003-- Ruth Harbor, a locally-founded residential care facility that helps women facing an unplanned pregnancy, today announced that community members committed more than $42,000 in one-time donations and pledges at Ruth Harbor's second annual fundraising banquet.

The banquet, which was held on November 13, 2003 at the Embassy Suites, gathered-together more than 275 central Iowans who rallied to support this ministry financially. "Although we're always in need of volunteers and people to provide prayer and outreach to the community, we also need financial support from the community," said Mark McDougal, Executive Director at Ruth Harbor. "We receive support from area churches and businesses, but donations and pledges from individuals who care about this ministry continues to be the primary way of keeping our program up and running."

As reported in an announcement released in September 2003, Ruth Harbor was experiencing a shortfall of $30,000, causing them to temporarily stop accepting new residents. During that time, Ruth Harbor has continued to field dozens of calls from women in need of a ministry like Ruth Harbor. "We're excited to begin accepting residents again now that our immediate shortfall has been met," said McDougal. "Although we will continue operating month-to-month, our long-term goal is to create a financial reserve so we never have to interrupt services again."

Underwriters Make Banquet Possible

Governor Terry Branstad hosted the banquet and special speaker Mark Kitts drew attention from his personal experience to the need for a maternity home like Ruth Harbor. Two Ruth Harbor alumni also shared their personal stories with attendees. The cost of the banquet was completely underwritten by supportive friends of Ruth Harbor and a $4000 grant from Target Stores. Therefore, attendees' contributions and pledges go 100% toward meeting needs of young women in need.

Community members who would like to participate in next year's banquet - either to help plan it, provide administrative help, host a table, or simply attend - should contact the ministry's office at 515-279-4661 or email them at rutharbor@rutharbor.org.

How To Donate

If you would like to contribute or make an annual pledge to Ruth Harbor, simply visit them online at www.rutharbor.org, or call their office at 515-279-4661.

Board Expansion

Two new Board seats will be open for 2004. To be considered as a candidate, contact the Ruth Harbor Office for a Board Member application.

About Ruth Harbor

Founded in 1996, Ruth Harbor is a Christ-centered home for women who are facing an unplanned pregnancy. Ruth Harbor began providing shelter, counseling, life-skill training, and options to women at no cost on Mother's Day, 2001. Ruth Harbor is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization. The home and its administrative offices are located 534 42nd Street in Des Moines. For more information call 279-4661 or visit the website More Information.