Pruning Leads to New Growth
A note from Terry Mears (new) Executive Director, Branches Pregnancy & Family Centers
The growth of a tree requires light, water and other nutrients to flourish. To grow in the right direction, careful pruning is essential. Pruning does not necessarily take away but allows a greater result.
In my first month here, I've had the privilege of hearing from some of you, learning where we've succeeded and where we have room to improve. Your feedback has been invaluable in guiding us toward a path of growth and service.
Rather than hastily attempting to rectify every issue or pursue every opportunity, our focus is on undertaking a comprehensive planning process. This process will serve as our compass, directing us towards a sustainable future where our efforts are aligned with our mission and vision, resulting in a tree growing in the intended direction.
As we navigate the path forward at Branches, we are guided by a deep commitment to listening, learning, and serving with purpose. In our pursuit of growth and service, we have identified nine Key Areas of Impact, each essential in shaping our journey forward.
The first of these areas is Communication, which brings me to the purpose of this letter. It is through open dialogue and transparent communication that we can foster understanding, collaboration, and meaningful connections within our community.
We acknowledge the disappointment that may arise from certain decisions, such as discontinuing the pursuit of our new permanent home. However, we believe that setbacks often pave the way for something even greater, aligning with a higher plan beyond our own understanding. We humbly embrace this outlook, knowing that we are merely instruments in executing God's vision for Branches.
Just as we cannot do this ministry without our Client Advocates and other caring volunteers, we simply cannot move forward in our efforts and growth without your support. Soon I will invite your input on our plan, while developing a communication platform for your continual feedback as the plan evolves. A simple feedback loop will provide our clients with the best possible care, while allowing transparency to what makes Branches a special place. For now, any thoughts, input, feedback or even prayer, can be sent to feedback@pregnancyandfamily.org
Thanks to the outstanding leadership of our Board of Directors and the addition of new members, we are on the right track. Since January, the number of clients served has grown significantly. We’ve had incredible donation support of Great Beginnings. Our Client Advocates continue to exceed expectations, and we are thrilled to see new ministry groups forming.
As we move forward, guided by faith and informed by our strategic plan, we will seek opportunities for growth while remaining steadfast in our commitment to prudent decision-making. Just as a gardener carefully prunes a tree to ensure its healthy growth, one branch at a time, we will discerningly navigate our path, trusting in the wisdom of God's design.
Terry Mears
Executive Director
Branches Pregnancy and Family Center
Dear Branches Family,
We are so excited about this new season at Branches! I wanted to add a brief note to Terry’s communication simply to accentuate how very important you are as well as your prayers for the Branches ministry. As a board, it is our utmost desire for this ministry to operate in the middle of God’s will. We humbly request intentional and persistent prayers for Branches, our leadership, staff, volunteers and clients. As you are all well aware, the battle is real. Please pray for guidance, discernment and wisdom as we move forward to accomplish God’s desires for Branches. We strive to join Him in HIS work; to be His hands and feet! I thank each one of you for the part you play on this team and in this ministry.
In Christ,
Dena Funk
Board Chairman
Branches Pregnancy and Family Center