On Father’s Day, we celebrate and honor all the great men who serve, sacrifice for, and love their families!
We are grateful for you and for your example which builds solid foundations for society. The world is stronger because of role models like you.
Your lives inspire us to cultivate programs for young dads that will empower and encourage them to be at their best for themselves and their families, especially as they witness the miracle of new life.
I have the great fortune of having a "hero" dad so this Father’s Day, I thought I’d share a heartwarming story of the man whose influence on my life shaped me. It's an event from decades ago that makes me laugh every time I think of it. I hope you enjoy the story.
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"Years ago for Father's Day, I surprised my dad with a hot air balloon ride. Up until the last minute of the car ride to Branchburg, he didn't know what was about to happen to him, until he saw the giant basket in the open field, and even then it didn't quite sink in.
One thing to know about my father: he's a practical, logical, realist. Definitely not a "balloon surprise" kind of guy. But in my 20 year old mind I thought it was the coolest gift ever and I worked hard for it, too. It took me weeks to save up for the $110 ticket.
I have to say my father was a good sport. With no mental preparation at all he climbed onboard the wicker aircraft and ascended into the June sky.
My mom and I followed behind with the ground crew in the balloon chase van. It was all so exciting (at least for me), though my mother seemed genuinely terrified. Still, she mustered a few smiles as I kept reassuring her how spectacular it all was.
Everything went according to plan, until we lost track of the balloon. Dusk turned to dark and then it started to rain. It seemed like hours went by as we drove around frantically searching for the missing balloon in the downpour.
My mom began to cry. Ambulances drove by with sirens blaring. All I could think of was that I killed my father ... with a giant balloon.
Eventually, I succumbed to the tears as well. Would we ever get him back?
Meanwhile, uncertainty loomed in the sky. The time had come for an emergency landing.
With darkness at hand and no open fields in sight, the balloon abruptly settled (aka crashed) in a small backyard guarded by large, angry dogs.
My father sprained his ankle from the violent touch down.
After the dogs were restrained by their owners, the balloon crew managed to drag the humiliated wreck to the side of the highway. They stood stunned and silent, ultimately hitching a ride with a trusting soul in a red pick up truck.
Miraculously (and mercifully) while on the hunt for my father in the balloon chase van, we somehow spotted the large wicker basket on the back of the truck.
What a relief! I didn't kill my dad.
Our reunion was a little awkward as he relayed his ordeal, limping back to our car, soaking wet.
I was extremely embarrassed and the guilt was heavy.
Still, despite the terror and injury, I had to ask. "How was it, dad? Was it amazing? Did you love it?"
And then my father spoke the words I treasure to this day:
He said, "Rosanda, next year, just get me a shirt."
Rosanda Grau
Co-Founder, Executive Director
INSPIRE Family Life Center
“Maya and John”, a young couple just starting their lives together, visited Inspire. They were faced with an unplanned pregnancy. A baby was not in their plans right now. They were working towards better jobs and a nicer place to live. They were excited about their future. Despite these many challenges, we were ready and equipped to help them navigate this unexpected pregnancy. We provided a safe space for Maya to reflect and share her thoughts and feelings about her pregnancy. She talked about a previous miscarriage years ago and how the loss was still painful. We gently pointed out to her that terminating this pregnancy would mean yet another loss. Maya began to wonder if she could endure that emotional anguish again...could her dreams include a family sooner than planned? With the support and encouragement Maya and John received from our staff and volunteers, they began to overcome their fears and consider new possibilities for their future. Still undecided and vulnerable, they agreed to return for their ultrasound appointment. But Maya and John did not return . We knew what this could mean, so we called on our prayer warriors, near and far, and placed this precious couple in God’s hands. 6 weeks later, John called…they wanted an ultrasound to see their baby. Maya and John chose LIFE! A family was saved because Inspire was there to provide life affirming support and compassionate, loving care. Our work saves lives! Maya and John’s baby is due in September, the month of our major fundraiser: Miles for Mothers Sunday, September 24, 2023 It is only with your partnership that Inspire can continue to have a Life Changing Impact on mothers and families like Maya and John! Miracles are happening at Inspire! Women need us now more than ever. They need real support. Real answers. A real vision of hope. Inspire is meeting their needs. Did you know we pray for our mothers before, during and after their visit? God has been with us every step of the way and so have you. Please support “Miles for Mothers” , our major fundraiser for the year, and help us reach our goal. Your gift will help us serve more couples like “Maya and John,” and save MORE precious unborn children, equipping families to build legacies of Life! YES! I'd like to support "MILES FOR MOTHERS" Thank you and God bless you. Rosanda Grau, Bunny Brinck-Lund and Carol Spina Co-Founders, Inspire Family Life Center
One year ago today, on September 8, 2021, on the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Inspire Family Life Center opened our doors. By the grace of God and with the help of friends like you, we are accomplishing exactly what we set out to do: transform hearts, save lives, and serve at-risk mothers and families. It's been an amazing year of "firsts"; most notably: Our first client Our first ultrasound Our first client parenting lesson All culminating in the birth of our very first baby born in May! We look to the future with grateful hearts and excitement. Having served so many women and families over the past year, we are poised to keep the momentum going while fulfilling the tremendous potential we have of affecting even more lives for the better. Inspire's medical services and education components, coupled with our compassionate and loving approach have proven to be a formula for success. And we're still growing! Please help us continue to move forward by supporting another "first". All are invited to attend our very first Miles for Mothers 5k Fun-Run/Walk Fundraiser Sunday, September 25, 2022 (12pm-3pm) @ Harry Dunham Park, Basking Ridge. A day of family fun; service hours for confirmation students; refreshments, music and games; surprise give-a-ways! Please help us by spreading the word and sharing this event with friends and family. By supporting Miles for Mothers you will enable us to continue our life-changing work - one mother and family at a time. May God bless you. See you at the finish line!
"If it wasn't for you, I'd be having an abortion tomorrow"
Lord, lavish Your Mercy on mothers. Those on earth, and those in Heaven. Those with a child in their womb, and those with a child in their arms. For mothers enveloped in joy. For mothers who are suffering. Lord, we pray for mothers whose hearts are full, and for those whose hearts are broken. We pray for mothers who long for the embrace of their own mother, and for those who long to be a mother themselves. Lord, the fruits of motherhood are poured into eternity, where You know each child by name. Jesus, we thank You for the great gift of motherhood, and for giving us your own mother, Mary. We thank you for Grandmothers and the laughter of children. Bless all women who have loved, sacrificed and cared for a child. Shelter them in Your compassion. Nurture them in the fire of Your love. Infuse them with Your grace. Now and forever. Amen. By: Rosanda Grau Co-Founder, Executive Director Inspire Family Life Center
Happy Easter! May the joy and hope of the Season brighten your hearts and minds. After 40 days of Lent and the sorrows of Holy Week, the glory of God has been revealed. The Lord has conquered death while carving a personal path to Heaven for each and every one of us. We are not only given Life ─ but Eternal Life, where we’ll experience the “Joy of Christ's Presence” forever. We have so much to be grateful for! The miracle of the Resurrection is fuel for us at Inspire because. We know that HOPE changes everything. So, we continue to work towards a world where every preborn child has the opportunity to first experience an abundant life on earth – and then in Heaven – without their earthly existence being denied them. We work towards a world where every preborn child will grow up to enjoy the simple delights we cherish every day – like gazing at the stars and sky, riding a bike and walking a dog – the embrace of friendship and family. With every human life comes the inevitable imprint of a unique soul that will somehow change the world forever. Nothing and no one will ever be the same, because that person was born and lived. With your help, we are leaving our own imprint on this world ─ one of mercy, compassion and love for the mothers and families who come through our doors seeking help. Serving them is a privilege and honor. But, it would be impossible without you! Thank you joining us on this faith filled journey and for your gifts of time, talent and treasure. Together, we take joy in the Risen Christ. Rosanda Grau Co-Founder, Executive Director INSPIRE Family Life Center www.InspireFamilyLifeCenter.com Photo by Catrina-Farrell-WGURAGVvs7g-unsplash
Heaven and Earth are overflowing with the love of our fathers. Happy Father's Day! At Ispire Family Life Center, we appreciate the value of fathers and know how crucial they are for building strong, healthy and faith filled families. Quite frankly, they are irreplaceable. We'd like to wish all dads a Happy and Blessed Father's Day. May our Heavenly Father protect you and your families today and always. Thank you for your sacrificial love. We'd also like to thank all those who have generously sponsored our "Open Wide the Doors to Inspire" Campaign. Because of you, we are almost half way to our goal! But it's not too late to make an impact. Your support can make all the difference in helping us serve the most vulnerable among us. Why not consider honoring your father with the gift of Life? Your donation will help us promote fatherhood and build families that will further the culture of life in our community. Your gift, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to opening the doors to Inspire. Thank you and Happy Father's Day! Carol Spina, Bunny Brinck-Lund & Rosanda Grau Co-Founders, Inspire Family Life Center www.InspireFamilyLifeCenter.com
We have exciting News! Through hard work, perseverance and prayer, we are steps away from opening the doors of INSPIRE Family Life Center in Warren NJ. We have obtained... Approval of our 501(c)3 nonprofit status A beautiful facility in Warren Dedicated volunteers who completed training courses A Licensed Medical Director We are almost ready to Open Our Doors! Your help is needed to make it possible! We invite you to join our Campaign: “Open Wide the Doors to Inspire” (Mother’s Day to Father’s Day) Our goal is to raise $100,000.00 Your support will enable us to... Build two counseling rooms where clients will feel safe Customize and equip the ultrasound room with medical supplies and equipment Build a warm & welcoming reception area for women & families Design and equip the Baby Boutique for critical material aid Hire a part time ultrasound technician Expand marketing efforts to reach at-risk women Equip the Center with computers & a phone system to effectively reach and serve clients Provide necessary educational course programs and materials to empower mothers and families You can support our campaign by simply clicking here ... or you can create your own fundraising page. It's EASY! Invite your friends and family to help us reach our goal. Every gift counts and will make all of the difference. The Campaign software will connect with your email list and social media pages so you can share the exciting news about INSPIRE and our life changing work. Please help us provide the services and resources that vulnerable women need so we can "help mothers LOVE life and help families LIVE life." No one should have to go through a difficult pregnancy alone. Children are Precious…so are Families. We formed Inspire to love & serve them both. We are ready to walk with them… it’s exciting! Please click here to help make it possible. Thank you and God bless you! Carol Spina, Bunny Brinck-Lund & Rosanda Grau Co-Founders, Inspire Family Life Center
Pictured: Gina Cordano & Carol Spina, Chair, Inspire FLC In gratitude and joy, we welcome Gina Cordano to Inspire Family Life Center's Board of Directors. With her many gifts and leadership qualities, Gina is poised to help move us forward during this vital point in our development. Gina is not only on fire for our mission, but has a genuine and irresistible servant’s heart – especially when it comes to mothers, babies and families. A graduate of St. John's University, Gina is mother to three beautiful daughters and a wife of 26 years. She is a daughter, sister, daughter-in-law, and friend to many. Family is everything to Gina. Spending time with family and friends, taking various Bible courses and enjoying good food and wine are among the things she loves to do. Gina is continually striving to be a better person and believes in her heart that "God is in control of it all." She is actively engaged in various charitable works and feels blessed with the many opportunities she's been given to volunteer and serve. Uppermost on her heart is inspiring others through our beautiful, life-saving mission. Already, she's made a difference. Please join us in a prayer of thanksgiving for Gina’s “yes” to Inspire! Rosanda Grau Co-Founder, Executive Director www.InspireFamilyLifeCenter.com
After many months of effort and prayer, along with the tremendous support of friends like you, Inspire Family Life Center has found and secured our permanent location! By the grace of God, we’ve been led directly into the heart of Warren in Somerset County . With a central location bordering Middlesex, Union and Morris counties, we’ll have a broad reach; being just minutes away from Routes 78, 22 and 287. Neighboring towns include The Plainfields, Dunellen, Green Brook, Bound Brook, Somerville and Bridgewater. We’ll still be just 15 minutes away from our current location in Piscataway. The next few months will be focused on tailoring our beautiful newfound space to specifically meet the needs of our future clients – with their comfort and care our top priority. Beginning this next phase of our journey is a sweet and awesome joy and we look forward to keeping you updated on our progress. But on the heels of this great news … came MORE great news! Our 501(c)3 application has been approved. Inspire Family Life Center is now an officially registered charity organization. All gifts received before this recognition are retroactive to 9-14-2020 and will be recognized by the IRS as deductible contributions. The Inspire Team would like to thank you for your incredible support and belief in our ministry. Burned into our hearts is immense gratitude for each and every one of you. We are humbled by the generous outpouring of time, treasure and prayer that you have shown us. Together, we are creating something beautiful to serve God’s people. The only way to repay you is by doing the work He has called us to do. Together, we will achieve this goal! For life and family, Carol Spina, Bunny Brinck-Lund & Rosanda Grau Co-Founders, Inspire Family Life Center www.InspireFamilyLifeCenter.com
As we draw closer to commemorating the suffering and death of our Lord on Good Friday, there are infinite avenues of mystery on which to pray and meditate on – guiding us into the heart of His Passion. Two in particular inspire wonder • That Jesus suffered and died for everyone who ever was, is and will be (including today’s pre-born children) • That He would have done it all just for you Both of these realities are staggering in scope - seemingly impossible grasp. But perhaps on Good Friday, it’s best to push all intellect aside and proceed with “heart” alone ─ allowing our love to do what our minds cannot - c onsole our Merciful Savior, with every drop of adoration we have for Him. After all, His tortured body is Love personified. Every wound, every fall, every cry, every agony of the Lord is a heart unto itself. Beating … just for you. Breaking … just for you. There is no pain we will ever encounter in our lives which the Lord has not undergone ─ throughout His life and during His Passion. Yet perhaps a portion of His greatest sufferings are brought on by indifference ─ from those who don’t bother to give Him a second glance. And that’s where the mystery deepens. Because “… while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” – Rom 5:4. Fully knowing our betrayals, conceit and wickedness, He spared nothing of Himself so that we might be free. What the mind cannot grasp – the heart can take hold of. Let us join our hearts in adoration to accompany the Lord on His sorrowful journey – loving Him as the Savior of the world and as the God-Man who died … just for you With your name on His lips … your face on His heart May we live our lives in faithfulness to His incomprehensible Love and Sacrifice. Thank you, Jesus! We Trust in You. Rosanda Grau Co-Founder & Executive Director Inspire Family Life Center