OUR HISTORY

In early 1980, a single testimony ignited a movement. Ben Pierson stood before the parishioners of St. Joseph Catholic Church, sharing his experience of starting a pregnancy care ministry in Hawaii. Among those listening was 60-year-old Mary Louise Simon—ready to enjoy her retirement, yet deeply convicted that something must be done for women in Faulkner County facing unplanned pregnancies.

With a heart full of purpose and the support of dedicated volunteers, Mrs. Simon opened the doors of Conway Pregnancy Problem Center just weeks after that meeting. Nestled in the second story of the Halter building in downtown Conway, this small but determined group pioneered crisis pregnancy ministry in the county. Over the years, the center was also known as the Conway Mother and Unborn Baby Care Center before adopting the name we know today—Life Choices.

As the ministry grew, so did its impact. Under the leadership of Susan Jennings, parenting classes were introduced in 1998, expanding the center’s mission beyond crisis support to long-term care. In 1999, after 19 years in the Halter building, Life Choices found a new home—a warm, welcoming house on Factory Street, generously provided by Second Baptist Church.

In 2002, Elaine Baldwin stepped into the role of director, guiding the growing organization into its next chapter. Just two years later, in January 2004, Life Choices relocated to Pat’s Lane, a space that allowed the ministry to not only continue its existing programs but also introduce limited obstetrical ultrasound services—a life-changing addition.

With each new season, Life Choices continued to expand. In 2005, Maria Edwards Speer became the fourth Executive Director, leading the organization through another move in 2006 to 609 Locust Street. Then, in 2018, for the first time in its history, Life Choices moved into a building of its very own—1330 S. Donaghey.

In 2024, Jessica Mauthe stepped into the role of Executive Director, becoming the fifth leader to guide Life Choices. Each Executive Director before her has laid a strong foundation, enabling the ministry to continually expand its programming and reach. Jessica’s leadership is no exception. With a focus on building strong partnerships with local organizations, healthcare providers, and community leaders, she is committed to ensuring that Life Choices remains at the forefront of supporting women and families in need.

As Life Choices moves forward, we are excited about what the future holds—empowered by a shared vision of expanding care, increasing accessibility, and pressing forward with compassion and commitment to serve women and families in our community with unwavering dedication.