Advent: Christ's Peace for Her...and You

by Jennifer Ellis, Academy Manager

In the second week of Advent, we light candles and turn our hearts and thoughts toward peace. The peace our hearts long for during Advent is the deep, abiding peace only Christ can bring into a world so often filled with fear and chaos. For those serving in pregnancy help, this peace is particularly significant. You encounter women and families daily who are in the midst of unexpected news, overwhelming voices, and seemingly impossible circumstances. Many feel afraid and alone in this world. In many ways, there is a parallel between what they are experiencing and what Jesus was born into, a world in need of the peace only He can provide.

Peace When Things Are Uncertain

The peace we talk about during Advent is not the absence of chaos. It is Christ and His presence in the midst of it. When that client walks through your door with her emotions—whether it’s anger, sadness, hurt, confusion, or more—your very presence with her can begin to bring calm in the midst of her storm. You provide a supportive environment where she can say what she needs to say…and be heard.

"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast,
because they trust in You."
- Isaiah 26:3 NIV

These words have so much power when you apply them to sitting with a client who may feel as though her world is coming to an end. The perfect peace that comes from Christ alone does not mean you have every answer and resource she needs at that specific moment. Rather, it comes from trusting that Christ will provide what she needs and bring peace in the midst of the chaos, with you as His vessel. We have the opportunity to model the peace she so desperately needs as we trust in Him for His perfect peace and provision.

Becoming a Path to Peace

During the Advent season, we remember how peace entered the world through a humble young woman who faced a pregnancy she did not plan. Can you imagine how Mary must have felt, or the confusion and fear she must have experienced as a result of the angel’s message to her? Yet her response was the simple statement, full of faith and trust in the Lord, “...let it be to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38 ESV)

You have the opportunity to bring the type of peace Mary exhibited into the lives of the women and families you meet with every day. You help them see the possibilities in their lives when they can’t see the big picture. You walk with them in prayer and with compassion, bringing a steady presence they otherwise may not have. You show them the way to peace through faith in the Lord.

Every counseling session, class, material assistance visit, or phone call is an opportunity to bring peace into her life. The calm in your voice, your patience as you listen, helping her know she is not alone, creates that path to peace she so desperately needs.

The Multiplication of Peace

This week, it’s important to focus on not only offering peace but receiving it. Peace cannot multiply, spilling into the lives of those we serve, if we are not able to receive it ourselves. The work you do each day can take a toll on you emotionally and even physically.

Let’s take some time to be refilled, resting in the presence of the Lord. Focus on this promise from the Lord as we meet with Him to be filled with His presence and peace.

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.
Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
- John 14:27 (NIV)

Emmanuel, God with us. He is with us on the days that are hard. He is with us in every moment, from praying before the clients walk through the door, to the time spent with each precious soul, and the moments afterward when we pray for her, the baby she is carrying, and what she is facing. When we are filled with the peace of Christ and pour that into the lives of our clients, then they can share that peace with their families and friends, multiplying the peace of Christ that leads to transformed lives.

As you light the candle of peace this Advent, picture the women and families you served this year. Pray for His peace that surpasses all understanding to envelope them in the midst of their circumstances.

Christ came into this chaotic world, bringing the promise of peace that will last through all eternity. You have the amazing privilege to bring that same message of peace to each soul you serve! May the peace of Christ rule in your hearts and minds as you continue to carry out this great calling.

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Advent: The Candle of Hope

by Michele Cheresnick, Affiliation Coordinator

Sometimes called the Prophecy Candle, the first candle of Advent reminds us of the hope Christ brings — a hope that carries us through uncertainty, darkness, and waiting. Advent is a time to pause, reflect, and prepare our hearts, focusing on God’s promises and the fulfillment we find in Jesus.

Hope isn’t just wishful thinking. It’s a deep, steady confidence in God’s faithfulness. The prophets spoke of a coming Messiah, a light for a world longing for redemption. Isaiah 9:2 says, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” That light is Christ Himself — whose birth we celebrate and whose return we await.

Through pregnancy help organizations, hope comes alive every day. Because of you, Christ’s light reaches communities around the world, offering practical help, spiritual guidance, and the assurance that no one walks alone. Just as the prophets pointed to the Savior, our work points people to the hope found in Him, showing that even in difficult circumstances, God is present and working for good.

Hope shapes the way we live and serve. It moves us to act with compassion, speak words of encouragement, and keep going even when challenges feel overwhelming. Every conversation with a mother in crisis, every moment supporting a father unsure of the future, every volunteer equipped — it’s all part of God’s larger story of redemption. Each life touched, each family strengthened, each person encouraged is a small beacon of hope shining in the world.

Advent is also a season of preparation. Lighting this first candle reminds us to ready our hearts to receive Christ anew. It’s a chance to reflect on our lives, our communities, and our ministries, and to ask God to guide us as we bring His hope to others.

In a world that often feels full of despair and uncertainty, the message of Advent is clear: God’s light has come, His promises are true, and hope endures. Let’s embrace that hope, not just for ourselves, but for the people we serve — sharing encouragement, practical help, and Christ’s love with women, men, and families everywhere.

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Academy Courses on Prenatal Diagnosis

Life-Affirming Care for Every Prenatal Journey

Created by Heartbeat International in collaboration with Option Line, PrenatalDiagnosis.org brings together organizations, medical professionals, and advocates to equip and empower those walking with women and families facing a difficult prenatal diagnosis. It serves as a vital resource for promoting life-affirming, compassionate care and education during some of the most challenging moments of pregnancy.

On-Demand

Each training is self-led, so you can watch them on your schedule.

100% Online

Complete each training from any device, anywhere in the world.

Discount Eligible

Heartbeat affiliates receive 20% off! Click the learn more button to see your discounted price.

1

CEU

Product Code 1234

Supporting Parents with a Prenatal Diagnosis

Prenatal screening is offered to almost every pregnant woman, regardless of risk factors. Although you may not be the clinician delivering prenatal screening results, you still have the opportunity to speak life into whatever situation your client finds themselves in after receiving a prenatal diagnosis. You have the opportunity to provide support and information at that critical moment that can direct parents toward vital support and services. Join us to learn more about prenatal screening, prenatal diagnosis, challenges a client may experience with a prenatal diagnosis, and referrals available for clients who have received a prenatal diagnosis.

$35.94

Product Code 709

Informed Consent Following a Prenatal Diagnosis

Parents are increasingly offered prenatal tests to screen for various prenatal conditions and subsequently offered abortion following a positive result. Ethicists broadly agree Informed Consent is critical in making medical decisions, yet parents often are not presented with the information they need to make an informed decision following a positive test result, which all too often leads to abortion.

$14.95

1

CEU

Product Code 602

Unexpected Pregnancy Outcomes

Abnormal early ultrasound findings are now being used to justify elective abortions and so now, more than ever, it's important that prolife healthcare professionals be accurate in our understanding and communications about these conditions. Join us to learn more about ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage and molar pregnancies.

$12.95

1

CEU

Product Code 1273

The ABCs of NIPT: Understanding Genetic Counseling in Prenatal Care

Join Caroline Aragón, MS, CGC, for a practical webinar exploring the essentials of genetic counseling and prenatal screening. You'll gain a clear understanding of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), how it works, what the results mean, and the clinical and emotional challenges families may encounter. This session will offer valuable insights for anyone supporting parents through a prenatal diagnosis.

$12.95

Product Code 1071

When Perinatal Hospice Isn't Prolife

This workshop will introduce participants to the new national network of Parent Care Coordinators serving parents carrying to term following a prenatal diagnosis and the related first-of-its-kind prolife prenatal diagnosis website managed by Heartbeat International (prenataldiagnosis.org.) The limitations of perinatal hospice as a prolife response to prenatal diagnosis will be reviewed by way of published research.

$14.95

1

CEU

Product Code 975

Prenatal Diagnosis and NICU Trauma: Educating the Medical Community About It's Real Effects in the Family

Education and awareness of the impact of our words and actions around a prenatal diagnosis and the diagnosis as it continues into the NICU is critical. The trauma reverberates through the entire family system, oftentimes with long lasting and irreversible effects.

$14.95

More Resources on Prenatal Diagnosis Care

Life Links: Diagnosis
Prenatal Diagnosis & Trauma-Informed Care - Podcast
Parents Facing Prenatal Diagnosis Have a New Support Resource - Article
The Reality of a Prenatal Diagnosis and the Blessing Behind It - Article
Processing Grief and Loss in the Workplace - 2025 Conference Recording
Reproductive Loss Support: A Companioning Approach - 2025 Conference Recording
Attending to Miscarriage: Is it Missional? - 2024 Conference Recording
Walking with Families as a Parent Care Coordinator – Heidi Martin - Podcast
Supporting Parents Facing a Prenatal Diagnosis – Shelley Hauter - Podcast
Prenatal Diagnosis – Informed Consent - Podcast: Part 1 | Part 2
Ministering to Parents Facing Prenatal Diagnosis - Podcast
Informed consent "not happening" when abortion offered following prenatal diagnosis - PHN Article
Pregnancy help groups step up to serve parents with prenatal diagnosis - PHN Article
Ethical actions after a prenatal diagnosis - PHN Article
With proper care, parents given prenatal diagnosis can honor the life of their child - PHN Article

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In-Depth Day Tracks

In-Depth Day is March 24, 2026. View the tracks below and select one before registering! If you've already registered and would like to add IDD to your registration, please complete the Change Request Form.

Register to Join Us In Person

Executive Roundtable (ERT)

Presented by Jor-El Godsey, President of Heartbeat International

Executive Roundtable (ERT) is a think tank-type forum intended for Executives and CEOs of larger, especially multi-center operations (in the range of $500,000 to a $1M+ budget and/or multiple offices). Intended to create lively debate, fruitful discovery, and deeper ministry relationships, the ERT involves interactive discussion to mobilize expertise, share ideas, and catalyze action, facilitating innovative change.

Due to space limitations and our desire to make the Executive Roundtable (ERT) experience available to as many qualified organizations and Executive Directors/CEO's as possible, this year's session will require an application. (Available at registration)

Housing Leaders Roundtable (HRT)

Presented by Valerie Harkins, Executive Director of the Maternity Housing Coalition

The Housing Leaders Roundtable (HRT) brings together maternity housing executives and senior leaders from across the nation for a day of collaboration, innovation, and strategic insight. This year’s Roundtable explores national housing trends, data-informed decision-making, and leadership strategies that strengthen long-term sustainability. Participants will engage in interactive discussions, share proven models, and develop actionable approaches to elevate the impact of maternity homes in a changing cultural and economic landscape.

This year's HRT will require an application. Applicants must have housed residents for a minimum of two years and have an annual budget of $200,000+.

STI Services To Better Reach the Most Vulnerable (STI)

Presented by Karolyn Schrage, RN, BSN and Mischa Long, RN, Choices Medical

Discover how STI services can expand your reach to abortion-minded women and their partners. This full-day In-Depth Day will equip you with the vision, strategy, and practical tools to implement or enhance STI testing within your medical services.

Medical Leadership: Leading with Accountability & Grace (MED)

Presented by Christa Brown, BSN, RN, Bryan Williams, MHA, RT(R), RDMS, RVT, RDCS and others from the Medical Impact Team of Heartbeat International

Discover how to hire medical missionaries, manage with the L.O.V.E. Approach, and provide servant leadership in your Pregnancy Help Medical Clinic. This full-day In-Depth Day will equip you with tools to lead and serve your team successfully.

Masters in Development (DEV)

Presented by Kirk Walden and Kama Tate-Gregory

From major donors to monthly supporters to events and everything in between, join Kama Tate Gregory and Kirk Walden for a fast-paced, deep dive into building both short- and long-term revenue streams. Together, let’s uncover the keys to a successful development plan – built for you – which taps into your giftings and strengths. Kama and Kirk bring more than 50 years of experience in development, and they look forward to bringing this to you and your ministry.

Trauma-Informed Ministry: A Retreat Day for Sustainable Care (TRAUMA)

Presented by Stacey Chik, Life on Belay

Before the main conference begins, step into a day of renewal and equipping. This retreat-style intensive blends teaching, reflection, and practical tools to help you create a trauma-informed culture—one that honors the sacredness of clients’ stories while protecting the well-being of staff and volunteers. In the rhythm of the day, you’ll move between learning sessions, guided quiet, and interactive practice—leaving you grounded, refreshed, and ready to lead with strength and sustainability.

Mastering Messaging: Professional Communication Skills for PHOs (MKTG)

Presented by Andrea Trudden and others from the Communications and Marketing Team of Heartbeat International

This one-day, in-depth training equips pregnancy help organization staff with the confidence and tools to communicate their mission clearly and effectively. Attendees will learn to craft compelling messages, write for impact across platforms, and speak with poise in both public and media settings. Through hands-on exercises and real-world applications, participants will leave prepared to represent their organizations with professionalism, clarity, and heart—amplifying their reach and influence in the community.

Sexual Wellness: Scientific Foundations and Practical Applications (SWELL)

Presented by Dr. Joe Malone, PhD, CPT, LWMC, CFE and Lori Kuykendall, MPH

Come learn the clear science foundations supporting sexual integrity and the corroborating scriptural support for sexual wellness. Biologically-based sex differences in brain anatomy and brain chemistry chemistry along with many other important physiological and psychological inherent and encoded behavior influencing traits, will be explained. Practical applications for client counseling, client education and classes, STD/STI clinical services, and community prevention services will be explored in this interactive, in-depth day session.

Governing with Confidence: Essentials Every Board Member Should Know (BOARD)

Presented by Dr. Peggy Hartshorn, PhD and Lauri Campbell

Designed for both new and seasoned board members, this In-Depth Day provides practical guidance on what effective governance really looks like. Topics include board roles and boundaries, financial and legal oversight, strategic planning, crisis leadership, and how to build a healthy partnership with your executive director. You’ll leave with clear expectations, practical tools, and renewed confidence in your ability to serve well.

The LOVE Approach (LOVE)

Presented by Michele Cheresnick and Kathleen Richard

Get the training and information you need to serve clients in post-Roe America. With this training, attendees can feel confident going into their initial client interviews, whether virtual or in the office. The training is based on The LOVE Approach, the well-loved and proven training system written by Peggy Hartshorn, Ph.D., and developed by Heartbeat staff. Interactive & packed with tangible exercises and examples to fully equip client advocates and empower them for effective service. (Session requires and includes the LOVE Approach manual.)

Who's the Guy in the Waiting Room? (DADS)

Presented by Tony Trammell, Dadhood.org

Discover eight compelling reasons to launch a men’s ministry in your center and learn how to get started. Together we’ll take a practical look at serving male clients and walk step-by-step through a fatherhood visit—whether the man is abortion-minded or not. Every attendee will receive free Dadhood books and resources to help strengthen their work with men and fathers.

Healthy is Messy: Loving Your Team Enough to Defeat Dysfunction (LEAD)

Presented by Bryan Gonzalez, Heartbeat International Faculty

Healthy Is Messy: Loving Your Team Enough to Defeat Dysfunction
True organizational health isn’t tidy—it’s built through honesty, trust, and courage. This In-Depth Day will explore how loving leadership means confronting dysfunction, pursuing clarity, and staying relentlessly aligned. Drawing from Patrick Lencioni's organizational health framework, as well as Gino Wickman’s book Traction, you’ll learn practical tools to build a culture that’s healthy, focused, and thriving—where grace and truth work hand in hand.

Pregnancy Help Apologetics (APOLOGETICS)

Presented by Dr. Marc Newman

A full-day deep dive into the “why” behind pregnancy help—and how to communicate it boldly and graciously in today’s culture. Perfect for leaders, staff, and anyone seeking to strengthen their voice, clarity, and confidence. Grounded in truth, love, and the heart of the Gospel, this session will guide you through the core convictions of the pregnancy help movement and prepare you to respond confidently to cultural misunderstandings, media narratives, and client concerns. You’ll leave strengthened, encouraged, and equipped to represent pregnancy help with both courage and compassion.

Building Strength and Sustainability in Rural Pregnancy Centers (RURAL)

Presented by Roberta Bigalk, ACaringPregnancy.org

Designed for those serving rural communities, this In-Depth Day will equip you with practical tools to strengthen every area of your organization. Learn strategies for effective governance, planning, community engagement, and fundraising—while connecting with peers who understand the unique realities of rural ministry. Walk away affirmed in what you’re doing well and empowered to take your next steps toward lasting success.

Register to Join Us In Person

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conference 2026

Conference Options

Conference Add-Ons

While we wish everyone from your organization could join us, we understand that it isn’t always possible. Heartbeat is excited to offer in-person attendees discounted virtual access for individuals from your organization who may not be able to make it to Cincinnati!

All in-person registrations receive expanded access for free.

Options available as add-ons to your in-person registration for your team at home:

• Basic Virtual Conference Add-on:

o $99 – Per additional team member access to all virtual conference for 14 days (3/25/26 – 4/7/26)

• Expanded Virtual Conference Add-ons:

o $149 – Per additional team member expanded access to all virtual plus select in-person conference (recorded) content for 21 days (3/25/26 – 4/14/26)

o $479 – Group Expanded access (up to 5 team members) to all virtual plus select in-person conference (recorded) content for 21 days (3/25/26 – 4/14/26)

o $989 – Enterprise expanded access (6-15 team members) to all virtual plus select in-person conference (recorded) content for 21 days (3/25/26 – 4/14/26)

Register for In-Person Conference

Unable to attend in person? We have Virtual Conference-Only available as well:

• Basic Virtual Conference-Only access to all of the virtual conference for 14 days (3/25/26 – 4/7/26):

o $199 – Individual basic virtual Access

• Expanded Virtual Access that provides access to all virtual plus select in-person conference (recorded) content for 21 days (3/25/26 – 4/14/26):

o $249 – Individual expanded access

o $599 – Group expanded access (up to 5 team members)

o $1,249 – Enterprise expanded access (6-15 team members)

Register for Virtual-Only Conference!

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conference 2026

Academy Courses on Reproductive Grief Care

A Collaboration for Powerful Grief Care Training

Our collaboration with the Institute of Reproductive Grief Care brings expert training right to your organization through Heartbeat Academy.

On-Demand

Each course is self-led, so you can take them on your schedule.

100% Online

Complete each course from any device, anywhere in the world.

Discount Eligible

Heartbeat affiliates receive 20% off! Click the learn more button to see your discounted price.

Product Code 1138

Bad News Delivery

Gain practical tools and language that help you respond with confidence and compassion when patients face reproductive loss. Learn how you can transform moments of profound grief into opportunities for healing, support, and compassionate care.

$30

1

CEU

Product Code 1134

Grieving Well

To better assist our clients and patients and to protect against vicarious trauma, it is helpful to gain a deeper understanding of our own grief history. This course offers self-guided reflections and exercises that will broaden our appreciation of the uniqueness of our own and other’s grief journey. Obstacles to grieving, grieving styles, practical ways to memorialize loss, and the ability to grow through loss are also covered as we explore how to grieve well.

$30

Certificate Eligible

Product Code 1251

Individual Certificate: Reproductive Grief Care

Reproductive Grief Care Certificate for Individuals is for those committed to offering the highest standard of compassionate care to those impacted by reproductive loss. A certificate is awarded to those who complete the Institute of Reproductive Grief Care specialized track of 8 online courses. After completion of these courses, individuals will have a foundational proficiency in reproductive grief care, be able to serve as an example of compassionate care, and be a resource for those in their community who have been touched by reproductive loss.

$495

1

CEU

Product Code 1135

Invigorating Compassion

Compassion fatigue and burnout often deprive healthcare providers of altruistic motivations and attributes that initially attracted them to caregiving. Aside from the recommendations for a healthier lifestyle, little has been offered to assist those in caring occupations to nurture their empathetic resiliency and enduring passion for helping others in need. This course helps care providers reclaim their compassionate zeal by uncovering factors that can derail empathetic caregiving; it also provides practical applications that are beneficial both personally and professionally.

$30

1

CEU

Product Code 1137

Reproductive Grief Care for Health Professionals

Reproductive loss, including miscarriage, abortion, stillbirth, and infertility, can be devastating, and healthcare professionals are often at the front lines of responding to those experiencing reproductive grief. Reproductive Grief Care for Healthcare Professionals is an introduction to standards of grief care for physicians, nurses, and other medical providers. This course equips learners to recognize the impact of reproductive loss, respond effectively both individually and organizationally, and help patients begin to cope with their loss experiences. Participants will learn a variety of effective communication strategies, cultural and spiritual competency skills, and options for memorialization to positively impact the grief trajectory for the bereaved.

$60

Upcoming Live Class

Click here for information on our next Reproductive Grief care for Pregnancy Help Organizations live class.

More Resources on Pregnancy Loss

Processing Grief and Loss in the Workplace - 2025 Conference Recording
Reproductive Loss Support: A Companioning Approach - 2025 Conference Recording
Attending to Miscarriage: Is it Missional? - 2024 Conference Recording
Unexpected Pregnancy Outcomes - Webinar

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Choose Your Conference Adventure: Your Stay, Your Style!

This year, our Heartbeat Conference is taking you on an adventure—one that begins with choosing your perfect home base just steps from the Duke Energy Convention Center (DECC)!

Heartbeat has secured special room blocks at three unique hotels, each offering its own vibe and personality—ranging from classic sophistication to modern calm. All are within an easy 6-minute walk to the DECC, with rates from $185–$189 (single/double) plus tax.

Note: Your exclusive Heartbeat hotel booking links will be provided in your registration confirmation email.

Option 1: Timeless Elegance Option 2: Modern Serenity Option 3: Close & Comfortable

Option 1: The Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza – “Step into Timeless Elegance”

3-minute walk to the DECC
If you love stories, history, and old-world charm, the Hilton Netherland Plaza will sweep you off your feet. Built in the 1920s, this Art Deco treasure exudes glamour—from its grand lobby to its glowing chandeliers. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another era (and maybe spot Gatsby at the elevator). It’s elegant, full of character, and just a short stroll from the action.

Discover the Hilton Netherland Plaza

Option 2: The Westin Cincinnati – “Recharge in Modern Serenity”

6-minute walk to the DECC
Craving calm amidst the conference buzz? The Westin is your wellness haven. Chic, fresh, and designed with relaxation in mind, it’s perfect for those who value a peaceful retreat after a full day of training and connection. Think soft lighting, cozy beds, and that signature Westin calm to recharge your body and spirit.

Explore the Westin Cincinnati

Option 3: The Hyatt Regency Cincinnati – “Stay Close and Comfortable”

1-minute walk to the DECC
For those who like to hit snooze and still make it to the morning keynote on time—this one’s for you! The Hyatt Regency offers the ultimate convenience with modern comfort and professional polish. Expect a clean, contemporary feel and all the familiar amenities that make business travel a breeze. Think: sleek spaces, cozy beds, and a short jaunt to get to sessions.

Learn more about the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati

Whichever adventure you choose, you’ll be in the heart of it all—steps from the sessions, fellowship, and inspiration
that make Heartbeat’s Annual Conference unforgettable.

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Two Margarets, Two Legacies: A Stark Contrast in the Battle for Life

by Andrea Trudden, Vice President of Communications and Marketing at Heartbeat International

History often gives us striking juxtapositions—stories of two individuals whose lives draw sharp lines between competing worldviews. Such is the case with Margaret Sanger and Margaret (Peggy) Hartshorn—two women who each left a profound mark on the conversation surrounding human life, but whose values and visions could not be more different.

Margaret vs Margaret

Margaret Sanger

Margaret Sanger (1879–1966), founder of what would eventually become Planned Parenthood, championed birth control and population control in the early 20th century. To many, she is portrayed as a pioneer of women’s “reproductive freedom.” But a closer look reveals troubling roots. Sanger’s worldview placed autonomy and self-determination above the sanctity of life itself. In her eyes, life was negotiable, especially the lives of those she deemed “unfit.”

Sanger openly promoted eugenics —the belief that the human race could be improved by discouraging the reproduction of people with what she deemed as having undesirable traits. Her writings and public statements often linked birth control with the goal of “weeding out the unfit,” and she advocated for policies that would limit births among the poor, the disabled, and minority populations. Rather than cherishing every life as sacred and worthy of dignity, Sanger viewed many lives as burdens to be eliminated or prevented.

Her movement was built on the premise that women could only be free if they were no longer bound by the possibility of motherhood. Liberation, in her mind, meant separation from the natural gift of life. The results of that philosophy are seen today in a culture where abortion is often promoted as empowerment, and where the value of life is weighed against convenience, cost, or circumstance.

Margaret (Peggy) Hartshorn

In contrast stands Margaret (Peggy) Hartshorn, a name less known in the mainstream but revered in the movement to protect life. As the longtime leader of Heartbeat International, Peggy Hartshorn has spent her life affirming the value of every human being, born and unborn, by building and strengthening a global network of pregnancy help centers that offer real choices to women in crisis.

Where Sanger championed the ideology of self over others, Peggy has quietly lived out a gospel of sacrificial love. She and her husband began by opening their own home to pregnant women in need, embodying the belief that true freedom for a woman doesn’t come from ending a pregnancy—but from being surrounded by people who will walk with her in love.

That foundational belief led Peggy to develop what is now known as the LOVE Approach, a simple yet profound model of care embraced by thousands of pregnancy help organizations around the world. The acronym LOVE stands for Listen and Learn, Open Options, Vision and Value, and Extend and Empower, a framework rooted in compassion, practical help, and unwavering respect for the woman and her child. This approach doesn’t just provide alternatives to abortion; it offers a path to hope, healing, and a future filled with possibility.

Peggy's legacy is one of hope and healing. Under her leadership, Heartbeat International has equipped pregnancy help organizations in over 100 countries to offer ultrasounds, maternity housing, post-abortion healing, and life-affirming care. Her vision values both mother and child, recognizing the inherent worth in every person regardless of age, ability, race, or circumstances.

Yet her legacy isn’t only global—it’s deeply personal. To meet Peggy in person is to experience the sanctity of life firsthand. The genuine kindness in her voice, the warmth in her eyes, and the patient attention she gives to each individual testify to the deep-rooted conviction that every life matters. There is no pretense in her advocacy—no hint of agenda or performative concern. She lives the pro-life message with every handshake, every conversation, every act of grace. Peggy’s presence alone affirms the truth that life is sacred, not in theory, but in each person we encounter.

Two Margarets. Two Movements. Two Moral Compasses.

Margaret Sanger’s legacy continues today in the abortion industry, a system built on fear, control, and the belief that some lives are disposable. In just one year, Planned Parenthood performed over 402,000 abortions across the U.S., according to its 2023–2024 Annual Report. That’s more than 1,100 unborn lives lost every single day.

In a powerful and providential contrast, Heartbeat International answers roughly 1,100 calls a day through its 24/7 Option Line—a helpline offering women compassionate, life-affirming support the moment they need it most. One movement ends life. The other answers the call to save it.

The difference in daily impact is staggering—and it’s no coincidence. The leaders behind each movement shaped these outcomes. Sanger laid the foundation for a culture of death, masked in the language of rights and autonomy. Peggy Hartshorn built a legacy of love, rooted in the unshakable belief that no one should have to face pregnancy alone, and no life is beyond value.

What Sanger’s movement ends, Peggy’s movement nurtures. Where Planned Parenthood sees a problem to solve, Peggy sees a person to love.

Even Planned Parenthood has attempted to distance itself from Sanger’s eugenic roots, removing her name from its Manhattan facility. Yet no amount of rebranding can undo the consequences of a philosophy that devalues life at its most vulnerable.

Meanwhile, Peggy Hartshorn’s legacy continues to grow, not just in buildings or programs, but in families restored, babies born, and women empowered with the truth that they are never alone.

The contrast is clear: one woman spent her life encouraging the world to live for self and to deny the value of lives deemed inconvenient. The other has spent her life defending the dignity of all life and serving those in need with courage and compassion.

In a culture still wrestling with the question of what it means to be free, the story of these two Margarets reminds us that true freedom is not found in rejecting life, but in embracing it.

__________________________________________________________

Join Andrea Trudden, Vice President of Communications and Marketing, as she interviews Margaret (Peggy) Hartshorn, former President and Chairwoman of Heartbeat International. Together, they explore Peggy’s remarkable 50-year legacy in the pregnancy help movement and reflect on the powerful contrast between two Margarets: one who promoted ending life and one who dedicated her life to protecting it.

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2025 Pregnancy Help European Summit - Online Brochure

Pregnancy Help Leaders Summit Banner

Open this page in Google Chrome to use Google Translate! Click here to download Google Chrome on your device!

Welcome!

We are delighted to welcome you to beautiful Singapore, the location of Heartbeat International’s 1st Pan-Asian Pregnancy Help Leaders Summit. You are in for a treat to be with over 45 other life-affirming leaders!

Heartbeat International is the first network of pro-life pregnancy resource centers in the U.S. and remains the largest and most expansive network in the world. Since 1971, Heartbeat has supported, strengthened, and started pregnancy help organizations, including pregnancy help medical clinics, pregnancy resource centers, maternity homes, and adoption agencies all over the world. Currently, Heartbeat serves over 4,000 affiliate locations on all six inhabited continents to provide alternatives to abortion.

We are a nonprofit, interdenominational, Christian association of faith-based pregnancy resource centers, medical clinics, maternity homes, and nonprofit adoption agencies endorsed by Christian leaders nationwide.

Our Vision is a world where every new life is welcomed and children are nurtured within strong families, according to God’s Plan, so abortion is unthinkable.

Our Mission is to Reach and Rescue as many lives as possible, around the world, through an effective network of life-affirming pregnancy help, to Renew communities for LIFE.

Tatum

Tatum Cole is a registered nurse specializing in women’s health, with five years of experience providing compassionate, life-affirming care. She currently serves as an APR (Abortion Pill Reversal) Hotline Nurse with Heartbeat International, where she supports women navigating urgent and complex pregnancy decisions.

Previously, Tatum was the Nurse Manager at Hope First in Jacksonville, North Carolina, where she led clinical services including pregnancy testing, STD testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and abortion pill reversal care. Her work reflects a strong
commitment to evidence-based practice and patient-centered support.

Tatum holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Appalachian State University. As a military spouse since 2012, she brings a global perspective to her work, currently living and serving overseas.

Johanna

Johanna Durairaj, a devoted wife to her Indian husband and a mother of five, began her journey toward natural birth following her initial C-section delivery with her first child. Drawing from her own personal experiences and driven by a passion for empowering pregnant mothers, Johanna has dedicated over a decade of her life to actively serving and assisting pregnant women. In 2011, while accompanying a pregnant mother to the hospital, Johanna confronted the limitations of the healthcare system. It was at this moment that the idea of a natural birthing home took root in her heart. Johanna’s mission is to create a space where families can embrace parenthood with beauty, respect, and the dignity they deserve. As a La Leche certified lactational consultant, she also offers expertise to support and guide mothers on their breastfeeding journey. She and her husband direct Life for All in Coimbatore, India.

Ellen

Ellen Foell, J.D., serves as the International Program Specialist for Heartbeat International, where she supports around 1,500 affiliates in more than 100 countries. With a background in law and ministry, Ellen first joined Heartbeat as Legal Counsel. After a season of writing and nonprofit advocacy, she returned to Heartbeat to focus on global outreach, offering training, mentorship, and strategic support to pregnancy help organizations. Ellen has represented Heartbeat at the United Nations, and her work has taken her to countries worldwide. A dedicated wife and mother of four, Ellen brings a heart for missions, years of cross-cultural ministry experience, and a deep commitment to life-affirming care around the globe.

Jor-El Godsey serves as President of Heartbeat International, the largest affiliation network of pregnancy help organizations in the world serving nearly 4,000 locations in more than 100 countries. Jor-El leads a staff dedicated to equipping, empowering, and encouraging the thousands of leaders serving in Heartbeat affiliated life-affirming pregnancy help centers, maternity homes, and adoption services, in the U.S. and on every inhabited continent. Jor-El oversees Heartbeat’s core mission to reach and rescue lives at-risk for abortion through far-reaching programs that include Option Line and Abortion Pill Rescue Network.

Melissa

Melissa Heiland is a wife, mother of 6, and grandmother of 13. She holds degrees from Wake Forest University and the University of Central Missouri. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Beautiful Feet International, a mission organization that starts international pregnancy centers. Beautiful Feet has over 200 pregnancy ministries in over 40 nations. Melissa is an author, speaker, and missionary. She has written a training manual for pregnancy centers, a curriculum for pregnancy centers, and devotionals for new and pregnant moms, as well as devotionals for mission teams. Her passion is teaching others to share the Gospel and to protect life. www.BeautifulFeetInternational.com

Jennifer

Jennifer Heng is passionate about building a culture of life in Singapore and Asia. She is the Director and Founder of Safe Place, an initiative that empowers women with unsupported pregnancies to make life-giving choices. Her strong communication and leadership skills, as well as a passion for building a culture of Life enable her to increase the impact of her work and role. She tells her own inspiring life story in her book “Walking Out of Secret Shame.”

Wade

Wade Kim is currently the Welfare Director of Women’s Hope Center in Korea. He has been with WHC since March 2017.

Juli

Juli Sharpe is the CEO of Genesis Pregnancy Support Inc, and has been involved with Genesis for 20 years, originally as a counselor and then as a teacher. She is a delegate to the International Conference on Pregnancy Support in the US. 3 children and 5 grandchildren in her family.

Juli

Dr. Roopa Verghese is an obstetrician-gynecologist and bioethicist with extensive experience in both clinical practice and ethical leadership. She completed her graduation and post-graduation at Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, followed by master’s degrees in Sweden and at Trinity International University in Chicago. She currently serves with the Emmanuel Hospital Association, a network of 20 hospitals serving rural communities across North and Northeast India. Based in Chattarpur, Dr. Verghese is the Medical Superintendent and Senior Consultant, providing both medical care and organizational leadership. In addition, she is the Executive Director of the Center for Bioethics India, where she leads initiatives to advance ethical reflection and practice in healthcare. An accomplished author, Dr. Verghese has written five books on obstetrics, gynecology, and bioethics. She also shares her reflections through her personal blog and podcast, Life in Introspection.

She is married to Dr. Jewel Jagan Jacob, an anesthetist and critical care physician, whom she describes as her partner in every venture. Together, they are blessed with a daughter, Jeroosha, who is currently in Class 11.

Leandro Dela Cruz

A few details to make the Summit an enjoyable experience for everyone:

• Please be on time for all sessions.

• You must wear your Summit badge for entry to the dining area.

• Thursday afternoon, you will have an option to tour our host center, aLife. Thereafter, you will have time to tour Singapore. Dinner will be on your own on Thursday and Friday.

We are glad you are part of the Heartbeat family.
At this Summit, we are pleased to welcome representatives from several nations around the world!

Wednesday
1500	Check In
1700	Registration in Lobby
1800	Welcome
1815	Host Center Welcome and Prayer
1830	Dinner

Thursday
0700	Breakfast
0930	Devotions
1000	Keynote
1045	Break
1115	Introduction of Attending Organizations
1300	Host Center Introduction, Welcome and Prayer
1330	Lunch
1500	Tour of aLife
1730	Return to Hotel from aLife
	Dinner on your own or with new friends

Friday
0700	Breakfast
0930	Devotions
1000	Keynote
1115	Plenary Session APR
1300	Lunch
1430	Workshop A - Donor Outreach
	Workshop B - Maternity Home Panel
1530	Break
1600	Workshop C - The Role of Prayer and Spiritual Warfare
	in Pregnancy Help Outreach
	Workshop D - Helplines: From Setup to Answering the Call
1730	Dinner on your own

Saturday
0700	Breakfast
0930	Devotions
1000	Keynote
1045	Break
1115	Workshop E - The LOVE Approach
	Workshop F - Finding and Retaining Volunteers
1215	Closing Comments
1330	Lunch/Dismissal

For affiliation services and questions, please contact
Ellen Foell, J.D., International Program Specialist at
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
whatsapp/signal +1(614)302-3664

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What is Pregnancy Help Appreciation Week?

Pregnancy Help Appreciation Week was designed by Heartbeat International to honor those working within the pregnancy help movement. Through their work, women and men receive the compassionate support they need when facing a life-changing decision. They walk alongside families throughout the pregnancy and beyond, blessing them with pregnancy tests, emotional support, ultrasounds, parenting classes, and so much more at no cost.

From volunteers to executive directors, nurses to receptionists, each person working in a pregnancy help organization has been gifted with the passion to advance the culture of LIFE! And for that, we thank you!

How you can thank a Pregnancy Help Foot Soldier:

Pray. The emotional energy given by those who work in the pregnancy help movement is extreme. They give of themselves daily. Pray for spiritual refreshment for those who go into the center today.
Volunteer. Connect with your local pregnancy help organization and see what their needs are. You may have just the right skills to fill a need.
Donate items. Call your local pregnancy help organization and ask them what items they need to bless a new mother (such as diapers or maternity clothes) and start collecting. Not only will you bless a center, you will bless multiple families as well.
Give. Without the generous donations of those within the community, pregnancy centers would not be able to provide their services for free.
Share the love. Share the good work of the pregnancy help community with your social networks. Don't know what to post? Like Heartbeat International on Facebook and/or Instagram and you'll find plenty to share!

If you haven't heard of Pregnancy Help Appreciation Week before, you should expect special deals, thank-you messages, and extra prayers this week.

Plus! We'll be holding a drawing at the end of the week where one lucky winner will get a fun gift basket from us at Heartbeat!

Daily Devotion

Today, hear a word of encouragement from Lauri Campbell, Affiliation Coordinator.

Shareables text

Click on each image to view the full-sized version. Then, save it to your device and share it on Facebook, Instagram, or post on X to show your love for the pregnancy help movement using the hashtag #ThankAPregnancyCenter