At Good Counsel, we have been blessed to be a part of the lives of thousands of women and their children since we opened our doors in 1985. The joy of embracing a woman in need, supporting her during pregnancy, helping her navigate through life's obstacles, seeing her become more self-sufficient, and then watching as she blossoms into the woman and mother God intended her to be are gifts we treasure.

One family's story -- mom Rosetta and her 6-year-old daughter, Emma -- is an excellent example of the work we do at Good Counsel. Spring Valley House Manager Mrs. Nanette has been close to this lovely family since Rosetta arrived at Good Counsel, pregnant and seeking assistance in 2017.

During the home's Spirituality Group, led by volunteer Jo-Ann Venezia (now CEO of Good Counsel) and her husband, Deacon Peter, Rosetta grew close to Jo-Ann. She asked for baptism for her daughter and Jo-Ann to be Emma's godmother, which all came to pass.

Fast forward to 2023, and charming, intelligent Emma read scripture at her parish this past Sunday as part of a missionary society event called "Bud of Promise." In attendance was Mrs. Nanette, who, beaming with pride, recounted young Emma's poise and reading skills at the podium in front of the congregation.

In this way, the relationships formed within the walls of Good Counsel's homes are the nurtured and natural progressions of the self-giving work of staff-turned-family. Many of our former residents – like Rosetta and Emma - stay in touch with house managers and other staff for a long time, sharing with them the milestones of their lives.

This is our mission, starting before the baby's birth and lasting a lifetime. Like good and loving parents, we are grateful to support women and children their whole lives. This is an essential part of what it means to be Pro-life, Pro-All-life, and Lifelong.