STARTING POINT TO HONOR LOIS CARTER

Contact: (740) 393-0370

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio -- Starting Point, previously known as Care Net Pregnancy Services, will honor former Executive Director Lois Carter on Thursday, May 7th. Carter recently stepped down from the organization's professional staff after more than a decade at the helm. A tree-planting ceremony is planned for 2:30 p.m. at Starting Point, located at 11 Woodlake Trail in Mount Vernon. A reception will follow, and the public is invited.

While Carter began her journey as a founding member of Knox Pregnancy Services in 1989, it was in 2004 when she began her tenure as Executive Director. Starting Point experienced several milestones under her leadership. Primary fund-raising initiatives have expanded in recent years, led by the addition of a second Spring Banquet and growth of individual, church and corporate support of the annual Fall Walk for Life.

After leasing office space throughout its existence, Starting Point was able to purchase its building in 2014. Additional space obtained through the sale will ease cramped conditions and allow for future growth. Also in 2014, the ministry was re-branded with a name change from Care Net to Starting Point.

Another positive development under Carter has been equipping and staffing an ultrasound suite where ultrasound services are offered. Starting Point, focuses on Prevention, Present needs and Past choices. Prevention is centered upon Sexual Risk Avoidance education.  Present needs include pregnancy tests, ultrasounds and parenting classes.  Past choices are addressed through Mended Hearts abortion recovery.

"Lois led us during Starting Point's most challenging and exciting years and has been a true visionary," said new Executive Director Kassandra Baker. "She is loved by our staff, board and volunteers, and we are blessed to have her remain as a member of our advisory board.  I’m so glad she is just changing her seat on the bus.”

Baker continued, “Everyone at Starting Point holds the sanctity of life close to their heart, none more so than Lois Carter. Planting a tree to celebrate her service is most fitting and it will be an ongoing reminder to us of her service."