Displaying items by tag: housing leaders

by Valerie Harkins, Executive Director of Maternity Housing Coalition and Housing Specialist

This past month, we celebrated a milestone in our movement: the 5th Maternity Housing Networking Gathering. This year, forty-nine maternity homes came together to connect, share ideas, encourage one another, and hear the latest news shaping our regions. It was a powerful reminder that when we gather, hope multiplies, courage grows, and innovation spreads.

But here’s the truth—we cannot win if we are working in isolation. A single home might be strong, but a coalition of homes working in connection is undefeatable. That’s why we are declaring “Connection” as MHC’s theme for the coming year. Last year’s theme was “Engagement,” and together we focused on building access to education and equipping resources. We held topical virtual networking meetings, in-person networking meetings with educational updates for housing in that region, sharpened Executive Leadership skills at the Pregnancy Help Institute, completed a 6-week course on launching maternity homes, and developed (to be published) a Trauma-Informed Care training. Now it’s time to put that learning into action.

Why Connection Matters

When one maternity home discovers a new approach, launches a new program, or experiences a breakthrough, that win isn’t theirs alone—it belongs to all of us. Shared victories breathe courage into weary leaders, spark fresh creativity, and remind us that the Lord is moving in this mission.

That’s why MHC wants to hear from you. If your home has recently:

• Started something new or revolutionary
  
  
• Found success with a strategy or program
  
  
• Learned important news impacting housing
  

…please let us know! We want to give a shout-out to your work so that the whole maternity housing community can celebrate, learn, and be encouraged.

Opportunities to Connect

This year, there are countless ways for you and your team to step into deeper connection:

• Write a guest article about a topic on your heart for the housing community.
  
  
• Host a regional networking gathering at your maternity home.
  
  
• Lead a virtual networking gathering for homes across the nation.
  
  
• Submit a presentation proposal for our annual conference.
  
  
• Volunteer to help host our national networking event at the conference.
  

And remember, some of the deepest connections are made simply by sharing a meal. Inviting other homes into your world fosters connection—because real relationships are built with feet under the dining table.

New in 2025: Monthly Virtual Prayer Gatherings

We are thrilled to announce a new initiative: monthly virtual prayer gatherings for maternity homes across the country. These will be a time to pray together, intercede for one another, and grow in unity as a movement rooted in Christ. Prayer is not an afterthought; it is the foundation of all we do.

Moving Forward Together

Connection isn’t optional—it’s the very strategy that will carry us forward as a movement. Each home matters. Each leader matters. And together, we are building something that cannot be broken.

So let’s commit to connecting in every way possible this year. Because when we stand united, we don’t just run homes—we run a movement that changes the culture, welcomes life, and builds families for generations to come.

We want to hear from you! Reach out, connect, and let’s walk into this next season—together.

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Consultation: Housing Consultation

by Valerie Harkins, Director of Maternity Housing Coalition for Heartbeat International

As leaders in maternity housing, we often find ourselves giving so much of our time, energy, and love to our residents along with their own tiny residents (their children) in need. While this is a worthy and fulfilling calling, it can also take a toll on our well-being. Fatigue and feelings of isolation creep into our souls without our noticing while we are fast at work with our hands to the plow.

Take this note in your heart and tuck it away for a later date: God is faithful to provide His strength and His comfort in our time of need, but not necessarily an end to the difficulties or even the opposition pressing upon us. He is the miraculous God who does far beyond what our imaginations can even think to ask. While our souls may cry out for deliverance from the lion’s den, He is the wise God who instead gives peace that surpasses understanding while inside the den. How glorious and perfect, a solution that gently silences the powers of darkness at work around us that boast of their own strength while also creating a demonstration of His own nature before unbelievers. This creates an “altar moment” for all surrounding the den and watching you in the midst of a trial. It is an opportunity for all to be awed by Jesus, the One whom even the lions obey.

The life raft for your soul, is the deep remembrance that you are not alone. Never. God is always by your side, ready to provide strength and comfort. In Psalm 46:1 it says, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." Lean on Him and seek His guidance in moments of weariness. He’s proven Himself over and over throughout the Bible, throughout global history, and throughout your very own life. 

A little practical support for you while you’re in the den:

• Avoiding burnout is essential for us to continue serving effectively. Make sure to carve out time for rest, relaxation, and movement.
• Prioritize tasks and delegate when possible.
• Set healthy boundaries: Remember that saying "no" to some things allows you to say "yes" to what truly matters.

It is crucial to take care of ourselves physically, mentally, and emotionally. Connect with other leaders in similar roles for support and advice.

Heartbeat Affiliates: If you haven’t already joined be sure to submit a request to join our private facebook group Maternity Housing Coalition - Affiliates Group. Remember, it's okay to ask for help when needed, or even just when it’s wanted. Every housing affiliate has access to a cost-free maternity housing consultation per month. Hop on the schedule here.

May you find renewed strength and encouragement in your journey as a maternity housing leader. Remember, you are making a difference in the lives of many. Keep shining your light bright!