First Step To Life

04/21/2026

We are so proud to see our Executive Director, Toni Clarke featured on the MyBridge Momentum podcast sharing insight into the work we’re doing and the impact it’s having in our community.

In this podcast, Toni shares how learning to lead herself first shaped the way she leads others—along with powerful insights on stewarding time well and staying grounded in core leadership principles.

It’s an honest and thoughtful conversation on what it really takes to lead with intention.

Give it a listen 🎙️

What does it really look like to build something that lasts — not just structurally, but spiritually?

In Episode 023 of How He’s Building This, Stan Parker sits down with Toni Clarke, Executive Director of Assure, as they celebrate 40 years of impact. What started with “$500 and a prayer” has grown into a team of 40+. Toni makes it clear: every step of the journey has been anchored in prayer and trust.

Toni shares candidly about stepping into leadership she didn’t seek, navigating personal health challenges, and learning to release control and trust God as the true Provider. From “blessing and releasing” team members to balancing ministry with structure, her story is a powerful reminder that sustainable impact is built through surrender, not striving.

This conversation gets to the heart of leadership:
- Leading yourself before leading others
- Stewarding time and influence with intention
- Trusting God’s call over your own plans

If you’re building something — a business, a ministry, or a life — this episode will challenge and encourage you.

🎧 Listen here on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/023-toni-clarke-trusting-gods-call-over-your-plans/id1664883205?i=1000755619349
🎧 Listen here on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7qOGUVGLdBYh6Fk5YHY4MK?si=7Mzr7JUFQa61Ob8iWURBnA

04/20/2026

In part two of this Life Matters conversation, Dr. Ingrid Skop takes a deeper look at the data behind abortion complications and maternal mortality, highlighting gaps, inconsistencies, and why accurate reporting matters. She also addresses common claims about abortion and women’s health, while exploring the broader factors that impact outcomes for women. This episode challenges listeners to think critically and consider what truly supports both women and their children.

04/13/2026

In part one of this two-part Life Matters conversation, Toni Clarke sits down with Dr. Ingrid Skop, an OB-GYN and Vice President and Director of Medical Affairs at the Charlotte Lozier Institute, to explore her decades of experience and how it shapes her perspective on women’s health today. Together, they examine how abortion is commonly presented to women versus the medical realities, and begin unpacking the science behind abortion procedures and risks.

04/10/2026

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month 💜

At First Step to Life, we are reminded that many of the women we serve carry stories of deep trauma, including sexual assault. Because of you, they are not alone.

Your support makes it possible for us to offer a safe, confidential space where women are met with compassion, dignity, and the love of Christ—without judgment.

We believe every person is made in the image of God and worthy of care and protection. That belief calls us to walk alongside survivors, offering practical support, hope, and healing in some of their darkest moments.

Thank you for standing with us—and with them.

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

04/09/2026

You may never meet them… but your impact is real.

Because of you, moms are finding hope, babies are being given a chance, and lives are being changed every single day.

Every donation. Every prayer. Every volunteer hour... it all matters more than you can see. And even if you never hear their names or know their stories, your impact is written into each one.

Thank you for being part of something bigger.

Disclaimer: Images shared do not depict actual patients.

04/08/2026

We had such an incredible night last Thursday!

Over 2,000 people came together to celebrate 40 years of life saving work, and we are still in awe.

Every conversation, every smile, every moment reminded us why this mission matters so deeply.

Thank you for showing up, standing strong, and being part of this legacy.

The best is still ahead!

04/06/2026

In part two of this two-part Life Matters conversation, Toni Clarke continues her discussion with Beth Fox, exploring how the same worldview behind abortion extends into assisted su***de and end-of-life decisions.

04/05/2026

He is risen!

Today we celebrate the greatest victory in history—Jesus conquered sin and death and rose to life. Because of Him, we have hope, freedom, and new life.

What He accomplished on the cross changed everything for us… and today reminds us that the story didn’t end there.

He's alive. It is finished. And it was all for you.

Happy Easter

04/01/2026

For the past 40 days, we’ve been covered in prayer—and we are so grateful. 🙏

Thank you for standing with us, believing with us, and lifting up this mission every single day. Your prayers matter more than you know.

We can’t wait to see you tomorrow at our 40th Birthday Celebration 🎉

04/01/2026

This past Saturday, Joy and Annaliese represented us at the Black Families Health & Wellness Fair, connecting with members of our community and sharing information about the services we provide. It was a meaningful opportunity to engage directly with women and families and be present in a space centered on health, wellness, and community.

Because of the generosity of donors like you, all of our services are offered at no cost to those we serve. Your support makes it possible for us to show up at events like this, build relationships, and ensure more women and families have access to the care and resources they need.

Thank you!

03/30/2026

In part one of this two-part Life Matters conversation, Toni Clarke sits down with Beth Fox, Board President of Rehumanize International, to hear her powerful personal story of being recommended for abortion before birth due to disability. Beth shares how cultural messages about “quality of life” shape how we view suffering, disability, and human worth—and why those assumptions are often deeply flawed.

03/24/2026

Please join us in prayer for a young mother who has an appointment at Planned Parenthood next week. Pray for protection over the precious life in her womb, that this child would be safe, seen, and valued.

Pray that the mother would be surrounded by truth, love, and clarity. May her heart be softened, her mind be at peace, and her eyes opened to the beauty and dignity of the life she carries. Pray that she encounters compassion, support, and the courage to choose life.

Let’s lift her up with grace, not judgment—believing that hope, truth, and love can change everything.