Ruth Harbor’s “Walk” is a Success

Des Moines, Iowa – RUTH HARBOR, a home for young women facing unplanned pregnancies, recently held its second annual “Walk for Life” to raise awareness and raise funds for its mission of caring for young women and their babies.  More than 160 community members displayed their support for the work of Ruth Harbor by attending the walk.  Others walked on their own.  Gifts and pledges are totaling nearly $30,000 as contributions continue to arrive.  Last year’s walk provided $21,000 in contributions.

The “Walk for Life” was held on the Meredith Trail near downtown Des Moines and coincided with Mother’s Day weekend, as well as the sixth anniversary of operation for Ruth Harbor.

“WALK” APPROACH IS RIGHT FOR MANY SUPPORTERS

While a walk is not a new approach to raising funds or awareness, Mark McDougal, executive director at Ruth Harbor believes it fits strategic planning for funding their care for young women.  “Some contributors look at our mission and decide to support it directly with their checkbook.  Others who care about helping our young clients want a hands-on method of helping.  They may or may not have financial resources to give, but will gladly talk with others and invite them to participate by sponsoring their two-mile walk.”

McDougal’s comments are supported by the results.  Enthusiastic sponsored walkers raised an average of $268 per person.  Four walkers raised over $1,000 each.  One of those was a seven-year old that increased his sponsorship from $1,080 in 2006 to $1,640 this year.

RAISING AWARENESS IS ALSO KEY

When walkers find sponsors, they naturally talk to them about Ruth Harbor and how it helps young women facing unplanned pregnancies.  McDougal and others believe it is important for a broad section of the community to know about Ruth Harbor’s services and support for clients.  Therefore, the Walk helps raise awareness as well as funds.

To see more details, results, and photos from Ruth Harbor’s 2007 Walk for Life, visit www.rutharbor.org.
 
For more information, contact the Ruth Harbor offices at (515) 279-4661 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday or by email through its web site.

About ruth harbor

Ruth Harbor is a program and home for young women who are facing unplanned pregnancies.  It is located on the southwest corner of 42nd and Ingersoll.  The organization was founded by three local women and opened its doors to serve residents for the first time in May 2001.  Ruth Harbor was incorporated with the state of Iowa in 1996, granted non-profit status by the I.R.S. in 1997, and is licensed as a community residential care facility by the Iowa Department of Human Services.

Beyond meeting the food, shelter, and transportation needs of its residents, Ruth Harbor’s programming includes:

• Counseling
• Quality Health Care
• Life-skill training
• Parent Training and Adoption Education
• Spiritual Guidance
• Education and/or employment support

The programs and operating budget are funded through contributions from individuals, corporations, and foundations.  Government funding is not utilized.  For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact the Ruth Harbor office at (515) 279-4661 or visit its website at www.rutharbor.org.

Mission Statement:
Through grace Ruth Harbor provides a Christ-centered home, programs and comprehensive services for women and teens with unplanned pregnancies resulting in positive life change.

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