
The Women’s Resource Center (WRC) of Natchitoches is reaching beyond its walls to meet women and families where they are, offering compassionate support and vital resources through a growing network of community outreach efforts. From educational cooperatives, public speaking engagements, center tours and partnerships with local churches and schools, the WRC is committed to empowering individuals with the knowledge, care and encouragement they need during pregnancy and parenting. These outreach initiatives reflect the Center’s ongoing mission to serve with faith, hope and love—one life at a time.
The Women’s Resource Center of Natchitoches is a nonprofit organization that provides free, confidential support to women and families. Whether celebrating a planned pregnancy, faced with an unplanned pregnancy or parenting challenges, the WRC is a supportive source for all soon-to-be or new parents. Since its founding in 1989, the Center has served thousands of clients with compassion and care, offering services such as pregnancy testing, parenting education, counseling, baby supplies, ultrasounds and referrals for medical, housing and social support. Rooted in faith and driven by a mission to empower and uplift, the WRC creates a safe and welcoming space where clients can find hope, guidance and practical help—no matter their circumstances.
The WRC recently participated in two events that brought the Center attention and recognition. Program Manager Sandy Keller and WRC Volunteer Hannah Hennigan represented WRC at the recent Community Baby Shower held at the MLK Recreation Center. Hosted by AmeriHealth Caritas of Louisiana, community partners gathered to provide educational information to attending parents. The Baby Shower promoted healthy pregnancies to improve birth outcomes and supported breastfeeding. The WRC offers numerous educational opportunities to its clients, including a breastfeeding class.
WRC representatives also joined fellow advocates at the Louisiana State Capitol for Pro-Life Day, a pivotal event organized by Louisiana Right to Life. Executive Director Nicole Woods and Volunteer Mimi Stoker shared information during the daylong event. This annual gathering brings together pro-life supporters from across the state to engage with legislators, attend educational sessions and participate in information sharing held in the Capitol Rotunda. The WRC’s presence underscored its commitment to advocating for women and families, aligning with its mission to offer compassionate support and resources to pregnant women and families. By participating in Pro-Life Day, the Center not only amplified its voice in the broader pro-life movement but also reinforced its dedication to fostering a culture that cherishes and protects life at all stages.
Benjamin Clapper, Executive Director of Louisiana Right to Life, served as the keynote speaker at the 2025 Pro-Life Day at the Capitol in Baton Rouge. A dedicated advocate for the unborn, Clapper has led Louisiana Right to Life in advancing pro-life legislation, youth education and public outreach across the state. In his address, he emphasized the importance of empowering women to choose life and highlighted the organization’s ongoing efforts to support both mothers and their children. Clapper’s leadership continues to inspire pro-life advocates throughout Louisiana, reinforcing the state’s commitment to protecting life at all stages.
The Women’s Resource Center’s Right to Life Gala is slated for September 18th, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM at the Natchitoches Events Center. The evening will feature a keynote address by Benjamin Clapper, Executive Director of Louisiana Right to Life, whose leadership has significantly advanced pro-life advocacy across the state. As the Center’s largest fundraiser of the year, the gala plays a vital role in supporting WRC’s mission to provide free and confidential services—including pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, parenting classes, and material assistance—to women and families in need. Attendees can look forward to an inspiring program that celebrates life and underscores the importance of community support in empowering women to make life-affirming choices. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the WRC website(www.wrcnatchitoches.org) or call 318-357-8888.
Photo Captions: Louisiana Right to Life Executive Director Ben Clapper will be the keynote speaker at the Women’s Resource Center’s Right to Life Gala. This year’s annual event is slated for September 18th at the Natchitoches Event Center. Pictured left to right is Clapper, WRC Executive Director Nicole Woods and Representative Gabe Firment. Representative Firment, who represents portions of Grant, LaSalle and Natchitoches, is a supporter of the WRC and statewide prolife efforts. The three leaders recently gathered during Pro-Life Day at the Capitol to champion the efforts of Pregnancy Centers throughout Louisiana.
WRC was well represented during the recent Community Baby Shower hosted by AmeriHealth Caritas of Louisiana and held at the MLK Recreation Center. Program Manager Sandy Keller provided attendees with educational information about WRC and shared the highlights of the Center with all community members in attendance.