Birthmother Friends Certification Training 

Birthmothers will conduct Friends Certification Training at 133 Park Street NE, Third Floor, Vienna, VA during two sessions:

• Wednesday, September 14, 2011, 7-10 PM
• Wednesday, September 21, 2011, 7-10 PM
  

Training equips volunteers to provide one-on-one, unconditional support, practical help, and encouragement for a woman or family member who faces an unplanned pregnancy. Particpants are asked to attend both sessions in order to be thoroughly equipped to serve.

Training is free. Refreshments will be provided.

What happens during training
Birthmothers Friends are the lifeblood of our ministry. They work directly with pregnant women to provide support. We do all we can to give them help, ideas, and guidance.

During training our staff will lead you step-by-step in learning how to be a Friend, including how to:

• engage the pregnant woman
• listen and respond empathetically
• practice spiritual care
• share your faith
• deal with various circumstances through role play
• connect woman with community resources
• handle crises
• explain pregnancy options, including parenting and adoption

Most importantly, you’ll learn about offering unconditional hope and help. That’s why our Friends’ motto is A Friend Loves At All Times.™

You’ll also receive a special Friends Manual which includes training information, supplemental materials, and resources.

At the conclusion of training, you will complete an information inventory and sign The Friend’s Pledge. We give you a certificate and Birthmothers pin, and welcome you as new Friends. (Please note that Friends will complete background and motor vehicle checks before being matched.)

Help us be prepared to accommodate new volunteers by registering for Friends Certification Training on September 14 and 21.

Special Circumstances

• While a large number of our volunteer Friends are women, we also encourage men to train as Friends in order to provide support for guys who face an unplanned pregnancy with their partners.
• If you cannot attend on April 16  but would like to become a Friend, email us. We’ll place you on the schedule for our next training.
• If members of your congregation would like to train as Friends together and form a Church Team, Birthmothers staff can schedule training at your church.

If you need more information
Learn more when you check out these Becoming a Friend FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions).

Thank you for caring about women and families as together we support them lovingly and without condition.