Hey pro-life friends! I just got back recently from the NIFLA Conference, and wow, I’m bursting with excitement to share what I learned. As the marketing director at iRapture, I’m all about empowering you—our amazing pregnancy centers—with the tools and encouragement to keep doing what you do best: loving moms, babies, and families with Christ’s compassion. This work isn’t easy, but let’s not grow weary—God’s got our backs (Isaiah 41:10)! Here’s what hit me hardest from the conference, plus a link to the podcast if you want to dive deeper: NIFLA Conference Podcast.
Rooted in Christ, Dreaming Big
Thomas Glessner, NIFLA’s President, took us on a walk through the pro-life movement’s journey—from Roe v. Wade in ‘73 to Dobbs in ‘22. Can you believe how far we’ve come? But, y’all, the pushback from pro-abortion groups and legal battles is real. Thomas reminded me why we keep going: every life is made in God’s image. That’s why you’re out there serving with such big hearts. He also challenged the church to do more than cheer us on—they need to roll up their sleeves and help.
The dream? An America where abortion isn’t just illegal but unthinkable, where every baby is loved and supported. It’s a tall order, but we’ve seen big wins before. Let’s keep trusting God’s promise: “Fear not, for I am with you.” What’s this vision stirring up in your center? Hit me up in the comments!
What’s Happening Post-Dobbs
Steven Aden from Americans United for Life laid out the post-Dobbs scene, and it’s a mix of highs and lows. On the bright side, over a dozen states have solid pro-life laws, and get this—about 32,000 more babies were born in states with restrictions. That’s huge! States like Alabama, Texas, and Florida are holding strong (with exceptions to protect moms, and some for rape/incest). But pro-abortion ballot initiatives are popping up like crazy—anyone follow what happened in Arizona or Colorado? And chemical abortions? They’re now 63% of all abortions, with mail-order pills making it riskier for women.
Just a side note… I love what is happening with Abortion Pill Talk . It’s all about helping women know the risks of abortion pills before they take them. Are you seeing more women at your center asking about this or dealing with complications? Let’s chat about it! Find out more at ProLife Ribbon APT
Steven also talked about policy hurdles like EMTALA and FDA rules. The Biden administration’s using EMTALA to push abortions in pro-life states, and the FDA’s loosened rules mean more at-home abortions. This makes you so vital. Women need your care, your truth, and your love more than ever. You’re rocking it, so keep going!
You Can Advocate as a 501(c)(3)
Okay, Joseph Kohm III, Danielle White, and Angie Thomas blew my mind on advocacy. Ever wonder if your 501(c)(3) can speak out? Good news: you totally can! You can’t back candidates or fund campaigns, but you can educate folks, run voter registration drives, and push for laws that align with your mission (just don’t let lobbying take over your budget). The IRS has a “Substantiality Test” (kinda vague) or an “Expenditure Test” (like 20% of your first $500,000).
With all these state ballot initiatives on abortion, you can share how they affect your work—just don’t tell people how to vote. Oh, and huge win: the Supreme Court’s Americans for Prosperity Foundation v. Bonta ruling keeps your donors’ info private, so they can support you without worry.
Louisiana’s a great example—they passed laws like SB 388 to stop illegal abortion pill sales, thanks to pregnancy centers teaming up with Family Policy Councils. Have you linked up with your state’s council yet? If not, it’s worth a try! What’s your center doing to advocate? Drop a note below—I’m all ears!
Taking Care of Your Heart
Tricia Lewis and Tanya Flores got real about the emotional weight of this work. Whether you’re doing ultrasounds, helping with Abortion Pill Reversal, or holding a mom’s hand through loss, you’re carrying a lot. Ever feel totally drained? I know I have. They reminded us it’s okay to grieve and feel the heaviness. Scripture says God sees us, strengthens us, and renews us. Have you had a moment where God gave you just the strength you needed? Share a quick “yes” in the comments!
Their big advice? Take time to pause and recharge. Bring your heart to God—He’s where we find renewal. If you’re wrestling with burnout or compassion fatigue, you’re not alone. Let’s talk about it—what’s been tough for you lately?
You’ve Got This!
This conference left me so excited and reminded me why you—our pregnancy centers—are the heartbeat of this movement. You’re up against misinformation, tough opposition, and emotional exhaustion, but you’re also saving lives and showing women they’re not alone. Dobbs didn’t end the fight; it just changed the game. Let’s stay smart, keep speaking out, and trust God to lead us.
Here’s a little to-do list to keep you going:
- Visit Abortion Pill Talk.
- Reach out to your state’s Family Policy Council to team up on advocacy.
- Keep a log of your advocacy to stay IRS-compliant.
- Take a moment to rest and recharge—you matter.
What’s one thing from this that’s sticking with you? Or what’s the biggest challenge your center’s facing? Let’s keep this conversation going—I’m here for it! You’re doing incredible work, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way.
With Prayer and Encouragement
Sandy MacNaughton
Marketing Director