SLV Life Center continues to serve

ALAMOSA — The San Luis Valley Life Center continues to move forward under its new name.

Formerly known as the SLV Women’s Resource Center, this limited medical clinic has been providing advising, support and education to those in the San Luis Valley who have faced questions and choices related to relationships, pregnancy, etc. The center was established in 1991 and is now in its 27th year.

Debora Black has served as the director for the center for 18 months. She has been a nurse for over 40 years. She is a familiar face for the organization as she has has served on the board of directors for the center. She has also served as director for Nurse Family Partnership. When the position at SLV Life Center became available, Black believed that it was where she was meant to be. The result was that it turned out to be the right opportunity at the right time for her.

She notes that during her time as director, there have already been some significant changes that have taken place. The number of clients has seen a significant increase jumping to over 300 for 2017. There has also been the name change for the organization. The change is intended to better reflect the goals and purpose of the center.

Black observed that the services offered at the SLV Life Center are meant to be a “hand up,” and a way to “empower” young individuals and parents and assist them in their journey. The tools they are given will, in turn, benefit the children that they raise. The center seeks to be a place where people can find a safe, non-judgmental, and concerned ear where they can discuss the issues they face and find the help that they may need. Black is thankful to be a part of the “good work,” that takes place at the center.

The services that are offered at the SLV Life Center include free pregnancy and STI testing, and education about parenting, adoption and abortion. There are also free ultrasounds available along with a clothing room. Thanks to the support of the community, all services are offered completely free of charge.

The center is hosting its fall event, Walk for Life, this Saturday, September 8th. Registration opens at 8 a.m. and the walk begins at 8:30 at Alamosa Christian Church. Online registration is also available at slvlc.org. For more information, the center can be reached at (719) 589-6698.

Caption: SLV Life Center Director Debora Black/Courier photo by Helen Smith