Many times I find myself so wrapped in the business of pregnancy centers that I can get far away from the heart of what is really taking place there. Last month I wrote in BoardLink that business and ministry are not juxtaposed against one another, but are, in fact, critical for the success of the organization. That being said, I want to bring the discussion back to why we do what we do.

In 2003, I became a grandfather. My grandson, Evan, was an unplanned pregnancy. While my daughter was pregnant, I had the opportunity to visit with a man at the PRC where I served as Executive Director. His daughter was a volunteer who was post-abortive. As the three of us became acquainted, the discussion moved to his daughter's abortion. Now in her 30s, she shared about how her abortion had prevented her from ever getting pregnant again. As her father listened, I watched the tears forming in his eyes. Very softly, he said, “That was my grandson. I will never take him fishing.”

Last night I watched my wife crocheting a new stocking cap for Evan. He is now 2-years-old, and he loves to come to “Papa Bruce's” house and “bouncy, bouncy” on the trampoline. I am looking forward to next summer and our upcoming camping trip. What joy he has brought to my life! I shudder to think that he could have been just another abortion statistic, and this is why I do what I do. I am a grandpa who wants other men to experience being grandpa, too. As the father of daughters, I want to be sure no other girl faces the pain of abortion. This is my heart and my passion for serving in the PRC movement.

Board members are constantly cautioned about getting involved in “micromanagement” of the ministry, which is a major issue that will drive competent executives away from your center. However, a board member who cannot remember why he or she serves is even more dangerous. I urge you as board members to reconnect with the heart of your ministry. Keep it near the surface. Then as you lead your ministry through its business, you will be a better board member.

Bruce E. Cole is Manager of Professional Development Services in the Sanctity of Human Life Department at Focus on the Family. He has been Executive Director for two Pregnancy Resource Centers, is a former pastor, and holds a Master's Degree in Organization Development from Central Washington University. Bruce can be reached at [email protected]