Our journey began on April 1, 1990, with the opening of Animas Crisis Pregnancy Center, dedicated to serving the women and families of San Juan County, New Mexico. Before our doors opened, a committed group gathered regularly to pray and discuss assisting women in crisis pregnancies. Among them were Pastor Gary Pinion, Tammie Bacon, Jeannie Wyatt, Leslie Fitz, Bill Fortner, Karin Britt, Mark Frederick, Lisa Dible, and Gordon Crane Jr., laying a solid foundation of prayer and support that endures today.
Our founding Executive Director, Susan Schlauger, led with a tender heart, mentoring staff and clients alike. Susan and her husband Bob served as Senior Pastors at Bethel Baptist Church in Aztec. The day she received the call from the board of directors inviting her to be the executive director, she was completely surprised. She couldn’t believe God would entrust her with such a significant responsibility. Her selfless dedication, including personal visits to incarcerated expectant mothers, demonstrated her deep love and care.
In January of 2004, Debbie Joslin took on the position of Executive Director. Under her leadership, Animas Pregnancy Center underwent a transformation into Grace Place for Women, accompanied by a series of transformative changes throughout her tenure from 2004 to 2016. This included the inception of the “Earn While You Learn” Parenting Program and the introduction of ultrasound services in 2006—our move to the Butler location in the fall of 2009. Additionally, in 2014, we launched our Fatherhood Initiative to provide support and resources for fathers. All these additions marked pivotal moments in our journey.
My story at Grace Place began in July 2014, when I was hired as the Development Director under Debbie Joslin’s leadership. Little did I know God had bigger plans in store for me! In March 2016, a leadership transition occurred, and I was appointed interim director while the board of directors conducted interviews for a permanent position. To my surprise, they offered me the position in June without even interviewing me! Despite my initial doubts, echoing those of my predecessors, I accepted the role in July. Though I surrendered to the Lord, uncertainty lingered regarding the board’s decision. However, I’ve witnessed God’s remarkable work firsthand over the past decade at Grace Place. I’ve truly embraced the reality of the saying, “If He calls you, He will equip you.” I rely on His strength daily, acknowledging that I cannot fulfill this role alone.
As I mark ten years with Grace Place this July, I reflect on God’s unwavering faithfulness and provision. Looking back, I’m struck by the remarkable timing and alignment of people and events He orchestrated. Over the past decade, we’ve diligently built upon the strong foundation laid before us, adapting to the changing landscape of our organization and those we serve.
In 2021, we strategically focused on reaching more abortion-minded women through targeted digital advertising and initiated a comprehensive rebranding endeavor to better align with our mission and vision.
The historic overturning of Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022, a moment I never imagined witnessing in my lifetime, marked a profound turning point. This landmark decision has led to the protection of countless precious lives across our nation. Yet, our attention must now turn to the state level, especially within our state, which has become a destination for abortion tourism due to its lax regulations. Despite these formidable challenges, I hold steadfastly to the belief that God has positioned us in this remarkable state and the four corners region for such a pivotal moment in history. Reflecting on our past efforts, it’s evident that they laid the groundwork for the monumental event of Roe v. Wade being overturned.
While legally remaining Grace Place for Women, Inc., we now operate as Grace Place Family Health Center, a name that more accurately reflects our mission to serve women, men, mothers, fathers, and children. Recognizing the significant role fathers play in the decisions of abortion-minded women, we strive to create an environment where they feel welcome and supported.
In 2022 and 2023, we expanded our team and fully embraced digital outreach strategies, leading to the successful launch of our “Digital Center.” Over 475 clients have reached out to us through this platform, confirming the vital role of our digital presence. By strategically marketing our services and round-the-clock availability, we’ve effectively engaged with individuals seeking abortions, guiding 95% of them to choose life!
As we mark our 36th anniversary this month, our commitment to our mission stands firm, even as we grow and change. At Grace Place, our fundamental values remain unchanged, regardless of our name or logo. We’re steadfast in our mission to provide life-saving alternatives to abortion, empowered by the gospel.