A New Name to Reach a New Generation

LIGHT& LIFENEWS

SPRING 2017

Corbella Clinic, a life-affirming pregnancy medical clinic that sees about 1500 clients each year, is the new name of Fox Valley Pregnancy Center. Executive Director Jeanna Desideri explains the purpose of the name change, “Fox Valley Pregnancy Center has been providing excellent pregnancy related services to the local area for many years. As we approach our 30th anniversary, we recog-nize that to reach a new generation of clients, we need to adapt. Our new name and brand are designed to meet clients where they are at - with a positive, hopeful and feminine approach.”

Corbella means “beautiful heart” and the name was chosen to embody the Clinic’s mission to love and affirm the goodness and beauty of all human lives. Corbella Clinic reaches out to and helps women and couples facing unexpected pregnancy with free and confidential medical services, education, resources and material support. Services offered are grounded in respect and awe for each unique, unrepeatable human person, starting with each woman served. Women and couples experience friendship, encour-agement and hope – giving them the support needed to make a life-affirming decision for their unborn children.

The new name and brand provides a fresh face and a fresh wind for the organization which remains passionately committed to Christ-centered and life-affirming values. Board Member Kathy Hopkinson comments, “Our rebranding not only reflects our contin-ued commitment to embrace every person who comes through our doors with respect and compassion, but also enables us to at-tract those searching for answers in new and different ways. It’s exciting to think about the possibilities.”

The Corbella Mission:

Corbella Clinic loves the next generation into life by offering positive, hopeful, life-affirming medical services, education and supportive relationships to women and couples facing unexpected pregnancy.

The Corbella Vision:

Our passion is to reflect Christ’s unconditional love and inspire hope in a way that heals, transforms and creates new possibilities for those experiencing an unexpected pregnancy.

IN THIS EDITIONMeet the Staff

Corbella Women’s LunchClient Success StoryVolunteer Spotlight

Welcome to the first edition of Light and Life News, a publication of Corbella Clinic for our wonderful supporters. We will do our best to share with you the many ways your partnership impacts our cli-ents - not only by saving lives but also by helping women and families to thrive. Additionally, ministry updates, special events and other exciting news will be highlighted.

Loving the next generation - born and unborn - into life is the purpose of our ministry and we could not do it without you. Together, we find the inspiration and the strength to love through our Lord Je-sus Christ. I think of 1 John 4:19 which says that “We love because He first loved us.” We who have experienced the transforming power of God’s love believe that same love can bring hope to those at risk for abortion. Corbella Clinic’s mission to love the next generation into life is rooted in Christ’s mercy, love and truth. We are blessed to respond to the culture of death’s message that abortion is the answer to an unplanned pregnancy by extending love and compassionate support instead. We are passionately convicted that what might seem like an impossible situation can be transformed through offering love and hope.

Thank you for believing in our mission and for your prayers and amazing generosity. May we never underestimate the lasting impact our efforts, in cooperation with God’s grace, have on the lives of those we are so privileged to serve.

For Life,

JeannaJeanna Desideri, Executive Director

Corbella Seeks a Dynamic Individual to Join the Development Team

Corbella Clinic has a job opening for a full-time Development Director to join our team of talented professionals.

Educational and Experience Requirements:

• A personal commitment to the Christian faith and a passion for Corbella’s life-affirm-ing ministry.

• Demonstrated experience helping non-profits meet and exceed budgetary goals for major fundraising events and appeals.

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.

• A minimum 4-5 years of fundraising experience is required, including an established record of success in individual, corporate and foundation outreach and gift acquisition.

• Excellent verbal, presentation and relational skills; proficient research and writing skills; sound time-management practices; a high degree of professionalism with internal and external audiences.

• Ability to write in creative, descriptive, tech-nical and factual manner.

Interested candidates may send a cover letter, resume

and 2 additional writing samples to:

Jeanna@CorbellaClinic.org.

Employment Opportunity

From the Executive Director

Amy and Michael had recently gotten engaged when they came to Corbella Clinic with an unplanned pregnancy. They hadn’t de-cided whether or not they would choose abortion but they felt too young to have a child. Amy’s pregnancy test was positive but it was too early to perform an ultrasound. Trisha Kopeck, Corbella’s Client Service Coordinator, explained to the couple that the baby’s heart started beating just 3 weeks after conception and provided fetal development education. Amy and Michael appeared to be very surprised. Trisha discussed their options and shared about the risks and consequences of abortion to which Amy replied, “I had no idea.”

“I told them how proud of them I was,” Trisha explained, “that they were taking their time and getting all the information they needed to make an educated and informed decision. I shared that I have had so many clients who have come to us after an abortion,

saying, ‘If I had only known.’ I told them that I never want them to have to say that.”

The couple returned 2 weeks later for an ultrasound appointment appearing relaxed and upbeat. They said they decided to keep the baby. When Trisha asked what helped their decision, they said they talked after their previous appointment at Corbella and agreed this is what they wanted to do. Amy said, “We both knew as soon as we left here.”

Michael’s eyes filled with tears as Trisha pointed out the baby’s heartbeat on the monitor during the ultrasound. They were elated to see their very tiny 6 week old baby and expressed deep grati-tude for the help they received.

Names have been changed and stock photos are used to protect client privacy and confidentiality.

My nurse was fantastic! Very respectful and easy to talk to. Very appreciative!”

“The nurse was so nice and made me feel so comfortable. She’s great!”

“Awesome, caring employees”

“I felt very taken care of. I thank you for provid-ing excellent service and information.”

“I was scared to have another baby, but now that I’ve seen the baby through ultrasound, I feel happy and so ready.”

“Very helpful; felt like I can talk to her about anything.”

“Everyone is so nice and all the information was helpful. I’m so glad I was referred to you guys. Thank you!”

Client Quotes From Exit Surveys

Client Success Story

“For most of these young moms it takes real courage, and faith, to make the deci-sion to keep their baby. To be able to come alongside them and help them in any way is an honor,” explained volunteer mentor Peggy Reilly. Peggy has been volunteer-ing with Corbella Clinic’s Earn While You Learn Parenting Education Program (EWYL) for over 2 years and meets with 4 to 6 moms and dads regularly. She originally heard about the clinic at one of its partner churches, Christ Community Church, which she has attended for more than 20 years. “I love the Lord and believe that every child is a gift from the Lord!” she said of the reason she is passionate about serv-ing women and couples with unexpected pregnancies. “It’s amazing what love and encouragement can do - especially for a young mom and dad. We’re blessed as mentors, to help them think about what kind of parents they want to be, and then help to provide them with some tools from the EWYL program to work towards that goal.”

Now that her own children are grown Peggy works part-time and volunteers. She finds joy and reward in her position with Corbella. “Sometimes you’re quite aware of the fact that, as a mentor, you may be the only one in clients’ lives who is pouring into them and encouraging them, cheering them on, letting them know what a great job they are doing. They’ve made the most amazing decision in choosing life, so to love and support them is a gift!”

The Impact - Words From a Grateful Client

Melissa and Nick are clients Peggy mentored for 2 years. Melissa shares the following about her experience at Corbella:

“Each child is a blessing, and God brings them into this world increasing our joy, love, and happiness. At the time of our unplanned pregnancy, I had other priorities to accomplish, such as finishing my nursing degree, settling down and finding a place to call home, getting married to my best friend and then having children. Of course,

finding out about our unplanned pregnancy and being first time parents, my son’s father and I didn’t know what to do or who to turn to for support. We discovered Cor-bella, and since day one the clinic has been very supportive and welcomed us with open arms. Compassionate individuals’ at Corbella Clinic empathized with what we, as new parents, were going through.”

“We are beyond thankful that God sent our mentor, Peggy Reilly, into our lives’. She has given us support in various ways such as listening to our worries and concerns regarding parenthood and about life in gen-eral, showing us love, making sure that we are making time for developing a healthy relationship, encouraging us in our relation-ship with God and simply brightening up our day with her company, beautiful smile, and laugh. We are grateful and thankful for Peggy’s love, support and kindness throughout our journey at Corbella Clinic. May God continue blessing Corbella so you can offer others the support, love, and reassurance that you have given us.”

Volunteer Spotlight – Peggy Reilly

Dr. Craig Nasralla

Dr. Nasralla helped Corbella open its medical clinic opera-tions in 2010 and has been gen-erously serving as the clinic’s volunteer Medical Director since that time. He is married with 4 children and is a radiolo-gist at Delnor Hospital.

Jeanna Desideri

Jeanna has 12 years of preg-nancy resource center experi-ence and became Executive Director of Corbella Clinic in 2014. She is proud to be a part of a wonderful team of talented, servant hearted staff and volunteers.

Melissa Fischer

Melissa serves as the Develop-ment Assistant for Corbella. She enjoys advancing Corbel-la’s mission through fundraising activities, social media and financial processing. She also assists with new volunteer inquiries. Melissa is married and mom to a sweet 2 year old boy.

Denise Feliciano

As the Receptionist and primary staff member who welcomes clients to Corbella, Denise creates a warm, profes-sional and joyful environment for all who come to the clinic. Denise is one of two bilingual staff members and utilizes her fluent Spanish speaking skills to assist Corbella’s Hispanic clients on a daily basis.

Isabel Chavez

Isabel is Corbella’s newest bilingual staff member. As the Outreach Coordinator, she forms partnerships with area organizations, finds new resources and referrals for Corbella clients, and spreads the message of Corbella’s new name and services. Isabel has served in pregnancy centers in both California and Illinois.

Kathy Skowron

After serving Corbella as a volunteer for five years, Kathy came on staff as the Boutique Coordinator. Her excellent organizational skills and creativity come in handy as she works with many volunteers to process material donations and beautifully display them in the Corbella Store.

Meet the Staff

Cathy Anderson, R.N.

As the Nurse Manager, Cathy oversees all of the medi-cal aspects of the clinic and offers medical services to women such as pregnancy testing, ultrasounds and STI testing. Cathy has been with Corbella since it added medical services in 2010. Her warm, compassionate disposition puts Corbella clients at ease.

Trisha Kopeck, R.N.

Trisha has worked in pregnancy medical clinics for 9 years and has served at Corbella for 2.5 years. She offers medical ser-vices to clients and oversees all client programs including Corbella’s extensive Earn While You Learn Parenting Education Program. She has a strong gift for reaching young men and women with a message of hope.

Save the Date - Celebration Banquet 2017Loving the Next Generation into Life – Featuring Keynote Speaker Shawn Carney

Mark your calendar for September, 14, 2017 at the Q Center in St. Charles, 6-9pm

Shawn Carney – Author, Speaker, Husband, Father of 6, President of 40 Days for Life.

One of the most sought-after pro-life speakers, addressing audiences coast-to-coast

and internationally.

Corbella Women’s LuncheonA women’s spring fundraising event in support of the Corbella Clinic mission and vision

Saturday, April 29, 201711am – 1pm

St. Charles Country Club, 1250 Country Club Rd, St Charles, In the Clubhouse

Ticket cost - $100100% of the proceeds of this event will go toward funding Corbella’s life-saving medical services

Enjoy a delicious lunch, praise songs, prizes, and inspiring testimonies from Corbella staff and volunteers

RSVP by April 20, 2017 – on Eventbrite at https://corbellawomenslunch.eventbrite.com or mail a check to Corbella Clinic

What is the Corbella Sustainer’s Club?

HELP SAVE LIVESPlease prayerfully consider joining the Corbella Sustainer’s Club and become a

vital life-saving partner in ministry. By giving something each month, you will be helping us to offer the services needed by women and men who are facing an

unplanned pregnancy. Together we are loving the next generation into life!

To become a Corbella Sustainer, call Melissa at 847-697-0200 or email melissa@corbellaclinic.org

You can set up monthly donations or make a one time donation online: corbellaclinic.org/donate

Catherine Walker, a volunteer and financial partner shares,

“I feel passionate about supporting Corbella for several

reasons. Dealing with an unplanned pregnancy is a time

of much fear and confusion. Corbella loves these women into motherhood and helps

them find hope for themselves and their children. Being part

of the Corbella team has been a privilege. Seeing lives saved is

the biggest gift of all.”

Development Assistant Melissa Fischer would like to see this

number increase to more than 50 this year. Melissa shares,

“Corbella Sustainers are passionate about the mission

and vision of Corbella and desire to see more lives saved

and cared for. We are truly grateful for each and every gift and appreciate those who are

able to contribute monthly.”

The Corbella Sustainer’s Club is a wonderful

opportunity for donors to partner with the ministry by making financial gifts

on a monthly basis. Monthly donors are the lifeblood of Corbella’s ministry. Currently 35

individuals or families give monthly anywhere from

$10 to $250.

Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDChattanooga, TN

Permit #383

101 E. State StreetSouth Elgin, IL 60177

“Loving the Next Generation Into Life”(Formerly Fox Valley Pregnancy Center)

www.corbellaclinic.org 847-697-0200

APRIL

07 07JULY

OCTOBER

06

05MAY AUGUST

04

NOVEMBER

03

JUNE

02SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER JANUARY

05FEBRUARY

02MARCH

02

01

01

APRIL

07 07JULY

OCTOBER

06

05MAY AUGUST

04

NOVEMBER

03

JUNE

02SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER JANUARY

05FEBRUARY

02MARCH

02

01

01

APRIL

07 07JULY

OCTOBER

06

05MAY AUGUST

04

NOVEMBER

03

JUNE

02SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER JANUARY

05FEBRUARY

02MARCH

02

01

01

APRIL

07 07JULY

OCTOBER

06

05MAY AUGUST

04

NOVEMBER

03

JUNE

02SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER JANUARY

05FEBRUARY

02MARCH

02

01

01

APRIL

07 07JULY

OCTOBER

06

05MAY AUGUST

04

NOVEMBER

03

JUNE

02SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER JANUARY

05FEBRUARY

02MARCH

02

01

01

APRIL

07 07JULY

OCTOBER

06

05MAY AUGUST

04

NOVEMBER

03

JUNE

02SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER JANUARY

05FEBRUARY

02MARCH

02

01

01

APRIL

07 07JULY

OCTOBER

06

05MAY AUGUST

04

NOVEMBER

03

JUNE

02SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER JANUARY

05FEBRUARY

02MARCH

02

01

01

APRIL

07 07JULY

OCTOBER

06

05MAY AUGUST

04

NOVEMBER

03

JUNE

02SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER JANUARY

05FEBRUARY

02MARCH

02

01

01

APRIL

07 07JULY

OCTOBER

06

05MAY AUGUST

04

NOVEMBER

03

JUNE

02SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER JANUARY

05FEBRUARY

02MARCH

02

01

01

APRIL

07 07JULY

OCTOBER

06

05MAY AUGUST

04

NOVEMBER

03

JUNE

02SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER JANUARY

05FEBRUARY

02MARCH

02

01

01

APRIL

07 07JULY

OCTOBER

06

05MAY AUGUST

04

NOVEMBER

03

JUNE

02SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER JANUARY

05FEBRUARY

02MARCH

02

01

01

APRIL

07 07JULY

OCTOBER

06

05MAY AUGUST

04

NOVEMBER

03

JUNE

02SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER JANUARY

05FEBRUARY

02MARCH

02

01

01APRIL

07 07JULY

OCTOBER

06

05MAY AUGUST

04

NOVEMBER

03

JUNE

02SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER JANUARY

05FEBRUARY

02MARCH

02

01

01

We invite you to join Corbella in a day of prayer and fasting every first Friday of the month. We offer the following themes for prayer each month, or please pray as the Holy Spirit leads you.

Thank you for your participation in our life-saving mission to love the next generation into life!

Pray & Fast for Corbella Clinic on First Fridays

For the special intentions of all the generous donors and supporters of

Corbella Clinic

For an end to abor-tion and for the

protection of life from conception

until natural death

For clients who par-ticipate in Corbella’s

pregnancy sup-port and education programs, that they would experience

growth, healing and transformation

For an increase of faith, hope and love

in the lives of all clients, volunteers, supporters, staff,

and board members of Corbella

That the Holy Spirit would give Corbella’s

Board, a strategic plan for the growth of Corbella Clinic, and that the Lord would provide for

the financial needs

In thanksgiving for baby Jesus and for

the gift of life

That young men and husbands would be

healthy in body, mind and spirit, become

the fathers God wants them to be,

and have wisdom in all of their decisions

That women and men considering

abortion would find healing, hope, and

support through Corbella Clinic. For their spiritual, emo-tional and physical

protection

That the tender love and mercy of God

would bring healing to all post-abortive men and women, especially those

served at Corbella

For the protection of all preborn children

and for just laws that protect innocent hu-

man lives

In thanksgiving for the many gener-ous volunteers of

Corbella Clinic and for all of their special

intentions

That Corbella nurses and staff would be filled with wisdom, discernment and

grace as they coun-sel and assist clients