Pregnancy Center moving to larger facility

JOINS CENTRAL CHURCH STAFF - Jim Parker has been named Children's Minister and Associate Pastor at Central Baptist Church. The church currently has a number of activities for children. Parker is pictured with his wife, Tracy, and their children, Ashley and Tyler. Hoping to expand its services to local women during their time of need, the Cherokee County Pregnancy Center (CCPC) will next month move its offices downtown to a larger facility in Tiffany Park.

For a number of years, the Christian-based nonprofit organization has provided services for women of all ages at its location on East Jefferies Street. But with an increase in clientele and advances in science, the group believes now is the time to make a move.

"Our other location did not provide us with enough space," said Rev. Scott Wachter, chairman of the Cherokee County Pregnancy Center.

When Don L. Wilkins & Associates Real Estate moved its office to a new location up S.C. Highway 11 a few months ago, the door necessary for the organization to begin its expansion was opened.

After a vast renovation project, the building, now named Options - A Woman's Medical Clinic- will open April 1.

"It was truly the help of churches and the local community for us to finish this project," Wachter said. "We are very excited. This has been a goal of ours for a number of years."

The CCPC's mission is to determine pregnancy cases among women locally. In addition, the organization provides services and resources during their time with child.

The opening of Options will only help enhance these opportunities, providing onsite counselors to answer questions. The organization also provides referrals to homes to help with subjects such as adoption, parenthood and life skills.

An ultrasound machine is expected to be installed later this year.

"The new facility will be a medical center for women," Wachter said. "Our mission is to provide a conclusive test to determine a pregnancy in addition to resources to support the women through it."

Wachter said the organization also hopes to persuade potential mothers from seeking an abortion.

"Our hope is that every female who enters the clinic will choose life," Wachter said. "But even if she chooses otherwise, we will continue to provide support. We are spreading the love of Christ, which is central in all we do."

Options will serve clients weekly with the exception of Wednesday.