About Heartbeat International
Heartbeat International is the first network of pro-life pregnancy help organizations founded in the U.S. (1971), and it is now the most expansive network in the world. Heartbeat has over 3,800 affiliated pregnancy help loctions - including pregnancy help medical clinics (with ultrasound), resource centers, maternity homes, and adoption agencies - in more than 70 countries around the world to provide alternatives to abortion.
Heartbeat's Life-Saving Vision...
...is to make abortion unwanted today and unthinkable for future generations.
Heartbeat's Life-Saving Mission...
...is to Reach and Rescue as many lives as possible, around the world, through an effective network of life-affirming pregnancy help to Renew communities for LIFE.
To achieve our mission, we do the following:
We REACH those who are abortion-vulnerable through Option Line's® 24-hour contact center and cutting-edge website, www.OptionLine.org.
"Reach down your hand from on high; deliver me..." - Psalm 144:7
We RESCUE those who are reached through our life-support network of pregnancy centers providing true reproductive health care, ministry, education, and social services where lives are saved and changed.
"Rescue me, O Lord, from evil men; protect me from men of violence. " - Psalm 140:1
We RENEW broken cities around the world, by developing pregnancy centers where abortion clinics are the only alternative for abortion-vulnerable women.
"He sent me to bind up the brokenhearted...to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor... They will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations." - Isaiah 61:1-4
Heartbeat Principles:
- Heartbeat affiliates propose and offer, through education and creative services, positive choices for the woman challenged by pregnancy.
- Heartbeat affiliates shall not discriminate in their services on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, age, or marital status.
- Heartbeat affiliates’ services are personal, confidential, and non-judgmental.
- Heartbeat affiliates shall not advise, provide, or refer for abortion, abortifacients, or contraceptives.
- Heartbeat affiliates encourage chastity as a positive lifestyle choice.
Heartbeat Program Policies
- Heartbeat International does not promote abortion, abortifacients, or contraceptives.
- Heartbeat International does not promote birth control (devices or medications) for family planning, population control, or health issues, including disease prevention.
- Heartbeat International does promote God's Plan for our sexuality: marriage between one man and one woman, sexual intimacy, children, unconditional/unselfish love, and relationship with God must go together.
- Heartbeat International does promote sexual integrity/sexual purity before marriage and sexual integrity faithfulness within marriage.
- All Heartbeat International policies and materials are consistent with Biblical principles and with orthodox Christian (Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox) ethical principles and teaching on the dignity of the human person and sanctity of human life.
All Heartbeat centers must abide by Our Commitment of Care and Competence.
Heartbeat affiliates propose and offer, through education and creative services, positive choices for the woman challenged by pregnancy.
Heartbeat affiliates shall not discriminate in their services on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, age, or marital status.
Heartbeat affiliates’ services are personal, confidential, and non-judgmental.
Heartbeat affiliates shall not advise, provide, or refer for abortion, abortifacients, or contraceptives.
Heartbeat affiliates encourage chastity as a positive lifestyle choice.
Heartbeat Program Policies
Heartbeat International does not promote abortion, abortifacients, or contraceptives.
Heartbeat International does not promote birth control (devices or medications) for family planning, population control, or health issues, including disease prevention.
Heartbeat International does promote God's Plan for our sexuality: marriage between one man and one woman, sexual intimacy, children, unconditional/unselfish love, and relationship with God must go together.
Heartbeat International does promote sexual integrity/sexual purity before marriage and sexual integrity faithfulness within marriage.
All Heartbeat International policies and materials are consistent with Biblical principles and with orthodox Christian (Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox) ethical principles and teaching on the dignity of the human person and sanctity of human life.
Our Commitment of Care and Competence
Originating in the early 1990’s, the “Commitment of Care” was formally adopted by major U.S. pregnancy help affiliation organizations in January 2001. Focusing primarily on positive client care, these ethical codes of practice dispelled the abortion activists’ false accusations and formed the basis for strong client services approval ratings.
Robust growth of pregnancy help efforts in specific – and non-profit entities in general – has brought additional scrutiny of these organizations. In response, the Leadership Alliance of Pregnancy Care Organizations (LAPCO), added new basic standards for organizational competency. Integrating these ethical codes of practice into the existing client-care elements produced the expanded document now known as the “Commitment of Care and Competence.”
Introduced in 2009 and updated in 2024, this commitment to ethical practices is the core standard for affiliation for all major life-affirming pregnancy help affiliate groups. We encourage affiliates to print the Commitment of Care and Competence and hang it up in your lobby.
- Clients are served without regard to age, race, income, nationality, religious affiliation, disability or other arbitrary circumstances.
- Clients are treated with kindness and compassion, in a caring manner.
- Clients always receive honest and open answers.
- Client information is kept securely and confidentially and only released with the client’s signed authorization or as required by law.
- Clients receive accurate information about pregnancy, fetal development, lifestyle issues, and related concerns.
- We do not offer, recommend, or refer for abortions or abortifacients, or contraceptives. We are committed to offering accurate information about related risks and procedures.
- All of our advertising and communications are truthful and honest, and accurately describe the services we offer.
- We provide a safe environment by screening and equipping all staff and volunteers interacting with clients.
- We are governed by a Board of Directors and operate in accordance with our articles of incorporation, bylaws, and stated purpose and mission.
- We comply with applicable legal and regulatory requirements regarding employment, fundraising, financial management, taxation, and public disclosure, including the filing of all applicable government reports in a timely manner.
- All services are provided in accordance with pertinent and applicable laws. Medical services are provided in accordance with medical standards, under the supervision and direction of a licensed physician (or advanced clinical provider as permitted by law).
- All of our staff and volunteers receive appropriate training to uphold these standards.
Final language as approved by the Leadership Alliance of Pregnancy Care Organizations – 07/10/24
Download a copy of the Commitment of Care and Competence and hang it up at your center.
Click here to access Heartbeat International's Raising the Standard course, which introduces organizations and their leaders to Our Commitment of Care and Competence.
Heartbeat Principles:
- Heartbeat affiliates propose and offer, through education and creative services, positive, life-affirming choices for the woman challenged by pregnancy.
- Heartbeat affiliates shall prefer and promote the value and place of sexual intimacy, children, and family building within marriage between one man and one woman.
- Heartbeat affiliates’ services are personal, confidential, and nonjudgmental.
- Heartbeat affiliates present alternatives to abortion without discriminating based on race, ethnicity, creed, color, national origin, age, or marital status.
- Heartbeat affiliates shall not advise, provide, or refer for abortion, abortifacients, or contraceptives.
Heartbeat Program Policies
- Heartbeat International does not promote abortion, abortifacients, or contraceptives.
- Heartbeat International does not promote birth control (devices or medications) for family planning, population control, or health issues, including disease prevention.
- Heartbeat International does promote God's Plan for our sexuality: marriage between one man and one woman, sexual intimacy, children, unconditional/unselfish love, and relationship with God must go together.
- Heartbeat International does promote sexual integrity/sexual purity before marriage and sexual integrity faithfulness within marriage.
- All Heartbeat International policies and materials are consistent with Biblical principles and with orthodox Christian (Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox) ethical principles and teaching on the dignity of the human person and sanctity of human life.
Not all pregnancy centers offer medical services. If you have questions about the services offered at this pregnancy center, please ask to speak to a center representative.
Frequently Asked Questions about Heartbeat International
What is Heartbeat International?
What's the difference between Option Line and Pregnancy Decision Line?
How can I make certain I'm part of Option Line?
What is Extend Web Services and how can my center benefit from it?
What is Next Level and how can my organization benefit from it?
What are Heartbeat's core philosophies?
What standards does Heartbeat promote?
What is the difference between Heartbeat and Care Net?
What is Heartbeat's position on birth control?
Frequently Asked Questions about Ministries
How do I start a pregnancy center?
I’m a new director, what resources are available to assist me?
As a Board member, what resources are available to me?
How do we add medical services to our Pregnancy Center?
How can we find out if we are a mandated reporter?
Our ministry is experiencing conflict between the Board and the Executive Director, what can we do?
Q. How do I start a pregnancy center?
A. Heartbeat offers a number of resources to brand new organizations, and you can find them all by clicking here.
Additionally, those starting a center receive complimentary first year affiliation along with discount pricing on resources. Affiliates have access to consultation by phone and/or email. Our affiliates receive special discounts on training, consultations and conferences as well. Affiliates receive newsletters and email blasts with updates on important information that pregnancy help organizations need to know. Affiliation with Heartbeat also puts you on “Option Line” www.optionline.org (See question on Option Line below).
We also suggest that you go to OptionLine.org, click on “find a center,” and enter your zip code to see if/what other organizations exist in your area and network with them as you pursue starting a ministry so as to not compete with funding resources in the area. Sometimes we find that a group may wish to open a center in an area where another center has been strategically planning and praying to open. You may actually be the answer to another center's prayers.
When you inform us that your center is open we will then include your information in the worldwide directory (and on Option Line if you are an affiliate).
Q. What is Heartbeat International?
A. Heartbeat International® is the first network of pro-life pregnancy resource centers in the U.S. and the most expansive in the world. Since 1971, Heartbeat has supported, strengthened and started over 3,500 pregnancy help locations on every inhabited continent to provide alternatives to abortion.
We are a nonprofit, interdenominational Christian association of faith-based pregnancy resource centers, medical clinics, maternity homes, and nonprofit adoption agencies endorsed by Christian leaders nationwide.
Heartbeat is what is known as a federation. It is a looser type of association. Members must adhere to 5 basic principles and all other matters of policy and management are up to the local Board of Directors. Centers are encouraged to be entrepreneurial and are seen as the experts in their particular community. Reporting statistics is not required but an annual survey, including stats, is requested.
Pregnancy centers are encouraged to use a statement of faith with which they feel comfortable. Many use statements that reflect orthodox Christianity such as the Nicene Creed. Samples are supplied upon request of an interdenominational statement of faith that focuses on being inclusive rather than exclusive.
Those who want direction and resources but place a high value on being independent in decision-making will enjoy affiliation with Heartbeat.
Q. What is the difference between Heartbeat International and Care Net?
Heartbeat International was founded in 1971 by the first pregnancy help centers in the country, who wanted their own affiliation organization. Its first name was Alternatives to Abortion (soon changed to Alternatives to Abortion International or AAI). AAI described itself as “non-denominational and non-sectarian.” When key Evangelical leaders joined the pro-life movement in the mid 1970’s, AAI supported their efforts to found a pro-life organization with an explicit Evangelical statement of faith. This new Evangelical organization was named Christian Action Council (now called Care Net). To learn how to start pregnancy help centers, the Executive Director of Christian Action Council, Curt Young, was invited to serve on the AAI Board (now Heartbeat International), and he did for 3½ years. Christian Action Council (now Care Net) started its first pregnancy help center in 1981.
Heartbeat International and Care Net share a common cause in inspiring and equipping Christian communities in the establishment of pregnancy help efforts that reach the vulnerable and rescue the innocent. In addition, we have previously partnered together for nine years on a joint venture that founded and developed Option Line, as well as currently work together to publish a Salary Survey bi-annually. Such cooperative efforts serve our common goals in a Great Work that saves lives and changes lives by the power of the Gospel at work in and through us.
Care Net and Heartbeat are not identical, however. Heartbeat International's distinctives include:
Heartbeat International is international in scope. (Reference Matthew 28:19 and Acts 1:8) From its inception, Heartbeat, then called Alternatives to Abortion International (or AAI), recognized that alternatives to abortion were going to be needed worldwide as abortion was a global tragedy. Heartbeat has affiliates on every inhabited continent and travels regularly in support of our global mission and our international partners. Care Net only has affiliated service providers in the U.S. and Canada.
Heartbeat International trains and supports leaders for a broad range of life-affirming affiliates including pregnancy help centers (medical and non-medical), maternity homes, non-profit adoption agencies, abortion recovery efforts, social services, and others who align with our Christ-centered mission, values, and principles. Care Net only affiliates pregnancy centers, while also working to engage and equip local church participants to directly offer compassion, hope, help, and discipleship to women and men considering abortion.
Heartbeat International is founded upon historic Christian orthodoxy as recognized in the Nicene Creed and/or the Apostle’s Creed. Heartbeat purposely integrates passionate pro-life proponents from all Christendom (Evangelical, Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, Charismatic, and non-denominational) at every level of Heartbeat (board, leadership, staff, and consultants), and in its training and materials. The development or adoption of a particular statement of faith, as well as its missional focus, is a matter left to each independent affiliate of Heartbeat. Care Net, by contrast, is expressly organized as an Evangelical ministry, expecting their affiliating pregnancy center is “equally committed to sharing the Gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ with those it serves” (from the Care Net “Standards of Affiliation,” as of 08/2019). This includes Care Net requiring each affiliated pregnancy center board to acknowledge annually and affirm the Care Net Statement of Faith, which is adapted from the National Association of Evangelicals’ Statement of Faith.
Heartbeat International’s ministry philosophy is intentionally grassroots, bottom-up, innovative and entrepreneurial. While both Heartbeat and Care Net use the national code of ethical conduct known as “Our Commitment of Care and Competence” as a standard of affiliation, Heartbeat has only a few additional non-negotiable requirements for affiliation (see our Principles of Affiliation). Heartbeat highlights effective models of ministry arising from our affiliates for our affiliates to evaluate, imitate and adapt further. Heartbeat trains in best practices, but avoids setting required policies and procedures or forcing rigid reporting requirements. Care Net requires pregnancy centers abide by 15 “Standards of Affiliation,” including annually submitting a “Care Net Certificate of Compliance, Pregnancy Center Statistical Report, and additional policy requirements relative to adoption services, and use of the Care Net logo.
Heartbeat International embraces the call to promote a culture of life among our clients, constituents, communities, and countries. This philosophy of ministry brings us to extend our work beyond core compassion outreach services to include influencing our cultures at large. We fulfill this in partnership with our affiliates, in part, by interacting with the government at various levels (for example, in our Babies Go To Congress program), by impacting public policy, and by calling clients and our culture to true reproductive health. The latter is embodied in our unique Sexual Integrity Program which introduces a model for sexual wholeness for use in pregnancy help efforts to promote healthy and life-affirming choices regarding sexuality.
Learn more about the Heartbeat Difference by clicking here.
Q. How do we add medical services to our Pregnancy Center?
A. Heartbeat offers several resources that will assist you in this process. Medical Essentials for Pregnancy Help Organizations helps centers explore the question, "Should we expand in this area?" with its guidance on evaluating the rationale for offering medical services. Heartbeat is with you through this Manual as you look at the needs of your community as well as the benefits, issues, and resource requirements of a medical pregnancy center.
To offer ultrasound you must first become a medical clinic – meaning that you have a Medical Director who is a D.O. or/and M.D. You operate under his/her licensure. You will need insurance to operate a medical clinic.
Your center will need an ultrasound tech, a trained nurse, or other trained health professional as approved by your state regulations and your medical director to perform the ultrasounds.
You may also wish to find a center in your area that offers medical services and tour their facility. They may be able to walk you through the transition quickly by sharing their process and their policies and procedures.
Q. I’m a new director, what resources are available to assist me?
A. Heartbeat International has a manual that was written just for you. DIRECT Well equips new directors and refreshes seasoned directors for effective day-to-day operations. Once a year we offer the New Director track at Pregnancy Help Institute for directors with three years of experience or less. The training provides an opportunity for you to network with other Directors, learn important responsibilities, and get your questions answered. The annual Heartbeat International Pregnancy Help Conference is also a great opportunity to learn and grow as a pregnancy help organization director.
We also offer manuals on Employee Policies, and Sample Policies and Procedures for Pregnancy Centers. You can read more about these and other resources in our online store. You will also receive a copy of our latest resource catalog when you affiliate.
Q. As a Board member, what resources are available to me?
A. The Board has the full responsibility of the organization. Heartbeat has developed a resource called GOVERN Well for Board members and the Executive Director. The manual explains the six proven areas of governance that successful Boards use. GOVERN Well supports the spiritual growth of Board Members who lead by radiating our Christ-based vision of a bright future to everyone touched by the organization. Center Directors tell us that they and their Board Members not only read this Manual, they study it and keep it at hand for ready reference.
As a Board member we offer you consultation by phone and email as well as encourage you to take advantage of the trainings and conferences we offer throughout the year.
Q. Our ministry is experiencing conflict between the Board and the Executive Director, what can we do?
A. One of the keys to resolving conflicts is to understand and follow the spheres of authority in your organization. For example, it should be made clear that the full Board is the “boss” of the Executive Director. Individual Board members should not be giving directives to the Executive Director. The staff should also be aware that if they experience conflicts they go to the Executive Director or their supervisor, not the Board. Clear boundaries are extremely important. GOVERN Well addresses this issue.
We offer consultation by phone and email and encourage you to call so we can assist you and direct you to helpful resources. Heartbeat recommends that you to have a conflict resolution policy in place and follow the pattern set out in Mathew 18. We also have staff trained in Peacemaker’s Ministry that can help in biblical conflict resolution.
Q. How can we find out if we are a mandated reporter?
A. It is important that clients be appropriately notified before receiving services that the center’s promise of confidentiality is subject to certain exceptions. The following statement may be inserted on client services forms to provide this notice: “All information shared by you during your relationship as a client with the center will be kept in the strictest confidence except as required by law or as required for the protection of you or others".
We recommend that your center carefully review state requirements to determine the scope of your reporting responsibilities as related to statutory rape. A good resource for the laws in this area is located at: http://www.childwelfare.gov/systemwide/laws_policies/statutes/manda.cfm. You can type in your state to see what the law is in your state and can further narrow your search to select those topics that are of interest to you (i.e. who is a mandatory reporter, how is abuse/neglect defined, etc.)
Heartbeat also recommends that you also check with your local attorney to understand the laws in your state regarding this issue.
A. Option Line is a program of Heartbeat International, with the toll-free number 1-800-712-HELP (4357), and website www.OptionLine.org available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via e-mail, instant message and telephone. Originally a joint venture with Care Net from 2003-2012, this outreach has responded to millions contacts. Option Line refers each contact to a pregnancy help center near them for life-affirming services (including pregnancy tests, ultrasound, material aid) and/or answers to questions about abortion, adoption, parenting, medical referrals, housing, and many other issues.
In order to receive calls, appointments (via Plus Link) and referrals from Option Line, a service provider must be a current affiliate Heartbeat International and follow the national standard Commitment of Care and Competence. Currently, Care Net affiliates in good standing are also listed as an extension of our previous joint venture.
Q. What's the difference between Option Line and Pregnancy Decision Line?
While both Option Line and Pregnancy Decision Line connect with pregnancy help organizations, there are some distinct differences that make them both unique.
| Option Line | Pregnancy Decision Line |
|---|---|
| Available 24/7 | Available MTW 10a-6p; Th 11a-6p; F 10a-5p |
| Scope of ministry is worldwide | Scope of ministry is North America |
| Counseling available via phone, live chat, text, and email. | Counseling available via phone. |
| Aim is to connect every contact with a Pregnancy Help Organization for ongoing support | May refer to PHO, but primary aim is direct support through Pregnancy Decision Line |
| Spanish Bilingual 24/7 | English |
| Website features interactive self-service tools for today’s woman, such as ChatBot, Online Pregnancy Quiz, and center locator | Website features answers to frequently asked questions and center locator |
As an affiliate of Heartbeat International, Care Net or both, your organization is more than likely represented on both www.OptionLine.org and www.PregnancyDecisionLine.org as a place for women seeking pregnancy help to turn. Greater outreach means more connections for clients to your center.
We are here to serve the pregnancy help movement and the women in the communities it serves. We know that the best alternative to abortion is another person, that is why we do all we can to connect women with pregnancy help as soon as possible.
Beyond answering the phones, Option Line can schedule appointments at your center! Please review your organization's details to ensure that they are up-to-date. If you have any changes at all, please contact us.
Q. How can I make certain I am a part of Option Line?
A. As a Heartbeat affiliate, you have the opportunity to become part of the Option Line. However, affiliation does not automatically place you on the network. If you are a Heartbeat or Care Net affiliate and your center is NOT currently listed on Option Line, here is a list of possible reasons why your center does not show up in the search:
- Your affiliation with Heartbeat and/or Care Net has lapsed.
- Your center has not fully adopted the Commitment of Care and Competence.
- Your center is located outside of the U.S. and Canada
If you meet all the requirements and your center is still not listed, please contact Heartbeat or call the Option Line business office at 614-802-2808.
Q. What is Extend Web Services?
A. Extend Web Services is a web hosting and design service specifically for pregnancy help organizations operated as a program of Heartbeat International. Extend Web Services provides affordable options for outreach to clients as well as supporter sites. Whether you need the simplest and easiest way to reach clients or dynamic personalized options, the Extend product line provides numerous options. Extend also provides Search Engine Optimization services for websites whether hosted by Extend or not.
Extend products have a medically accurate managed content and have the unique opportunity to be linked via the Option Line website. Their services are available regardless of affiliation with Heartbeat International.
A. Next Level CMS harnesses the power of big data to make local centers and medical clinics as effective as they can possibly be. At Heartbeat, we believe we are better together, and our center management software reflects that by collecting data, across the pregnancy help movement, on critical metrics to provide powerful, actionable insights at the local level.
Crafted by a team of professional healthcare software developers, Next Level CMS also closes a key informational gap within local centers by streamlining intake and data collection to unleash your organization's power of woman-centered service.
Next Level CMs's tablet-based, mobile-native design also gives you a cutting-edge tool to make sure that no client ever falls through the cracks from the moment you say "Hello."
Q. What is Heartbeat's position on birth control?
A. Heartbeat International does not promote birth control (devices or medications) for family planning, population control, or health issues, including disease prevention. All Heartbeat International policies and materials are consistent with Biblical principles and with orthodox Christian (Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox) ethical principles and teaching on the dignity of the human person and sanctity of human life.
Terms and Conditions of Use
By entering and using this site or the links accessible through this site, you expressly agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of this agreement. The information and the resources contained on and accessible through this site are made available by Heartbeat International and/or its suppliers and vendors, and are subject to your agreement to their terms and conditions. If you do not agree with the Terms and Conditions, please do not use this website.
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All manuals and resources published or distributed by Heartbeat International, Inc. are designed for general informational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for the direct counsel of an attorney, professional counselor, or medical professional. Manuals and resources published or distributed by Heartbeat International are not intended to replace the advice of a licensed medical doctor, therapist, counselor, psychiatrist, psychologist or attorney.
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You understand and agree that neither Heartbeat International nor its suppliers or vendors or linked domain names are responsible or liable for any claim, loss, or damage, of any kind, directly or indirectly resulting from your use of this site or the information or the resources contained on or accessible through it.
Heartbeat International expressly disclaims any implied warranty or representation about information on this site, its accuracy, relevance, timeliness, completeness, or appropriateness for any particular purpose of any kind. Your use of this site is also subject to all additional disclaimers and caveats that may appear throughout the site.
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To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, in no event shall Heartbeat International or its suppliers or vendors be liable for any direct, indirect, special, punitive, incidental, exemplary, contractual, or consequential damages, or any damages whatsoever of any kind, resulting from any loss, which by way of example, includes loss of use, viruses, loss of data, loss of profits, business interruption, litigation, or any other pecuniary loss, whether based on breach of contract, tort (including negligence), product liability, or otherwise, arising out of or in any way connected with the use or performance of this site, with the delay or inability to use this site, or with the provision of or failure to make available any information, services, products, materials, or other resources contained on or accessible through this site, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.
With respect to products, goods, or services purchased from any entity identified, listed, named or contacted through Heartbeat International website, or any links to Heartbeat International website, in no event shall Heartbeat International be liable for any direct, indirect, special, punitive, incidental, exemplary, or consequential damages, or any damages whatsoever, resulting from any loss of use, loss of profits, litigation, or any other pecuniary loss, whether based on breach of contract, tort (including negligence), product liability, or otherwise, arising out of or in any way connected with the provision of or failure to make available any such products, goods, or services, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.
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Heartbeat works hard to offer products that deliver the tools and information you need. Please notify Heartbeat International at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you receive resources in a damaged condition. Heartbeat will exchange the damaged product for a new one if it is returned within thirty (30) days (twenty (20) regular business days) of receipt and is accompanied by a specific explanation for the damage. Likewise, we will complete incomplete orders if notified in writing within thirty (30) days (twenty (20) regular business days) of receipt accompanied by a specific explanation of the missing items. Please notify Heartbeat immediately upon receipt of a damaged or incomplete product that appears to be the result of shipping. Directions for returning products damaged during shipping may vary depending on carrier. Method of payment may require additional transaction fees. All other sales are final.
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Questions
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Return Policy:
Terms of Use
Shipping Policy
Updates to Terms
Heartbeat International may modify the terms and conditions of use agreement at any time, and from time to time, and such modifications shall be effective immediately upon posting of the modified agreement.
Severability
If any provisions of these Terms and Conditions of Use are found void, unenforceable or unlawful, it does not and will not serve to invalidate any other provisions in the terms and Conditions of Use. All other provisions will remain valid, in full force and effect.
Governing Law
These Terms and Conditions of Use shall be construed, interpreted and performed exclusively according to the, excluding conflict of law rules, of the State of Ohio, United States of America. Any legal action with respect to any transaction must be commenced within one year after the cause of action has arisen.
Questions
Should you have any questions or concerns regarding Heartbeat International's Terms and Conditions of Use, please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
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Heartbeat International has the most expansive network
of pregnancy help in the world!
Heartbeat's Life-Saving Vision is a world where every new life is welcomed and children are nurtured within strong families, according to God’s Plan, so that abortion is unthinkable.
Heartbeat's Life-Saving Mission is to Reach and Rescue as many lives as possible through an effective global network of life-affirming pregnancy help that Renews communities for LIFE.
To achieve our mission, we:
Advancing Life-Affirming Pregnancy Help Worldwide
To become an affiliate of Heartbeat International, you must review and agree to abide by the Heartbeat Principles and the Commitment of Care and Competence:
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- Heartbeat International does not promote abortion, abortifacients, or contraceptives.
- Heartbeat International does not promote birth control (devices or medications) for family planning, population control, or health issues, including disease prevention.
- Heartbeat International does promote God's Plan for our sexuality: marriage between one man and one woman, sexual intimacy, children, unconditional/unselfish love, and relationship with God must go together.
- Heartbeat International does promote sexual integrity/sexual purity before marriage and sexual integrity faithfulness within marriage.
- All Heartbeat International policies and materials are consistent with Biblical principles and with orthodox Christian (Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox) ethical principles and teaching on the dignity of the human person and sanctity of human life.
Not all pregnancy centers offer medical services. If you have questions about the services offered at this pregnancy center, please ask to speak to a center representative.
Welcome to Heartbeat!
As Heartbeat Grows, We Adapt and Celebrate!
In the last few years, Heartbeat has seen some amazing growth! Our affiliate network has been constantly expanding, and with the addition of the Abortion Pill Rescue Network, Next Level CMS, grant programs like Life Launch, and other exciting programs and resources introduced in the last few years, our staff have been working harder than ever to make sure you have all the tools you need to serve the women in your community.
With all of the excitement, Heartbeat’s team has had to adapt to new ways of working together, and that’s why we’re proud to announce that Betty McDowell, who has worked on the Ministry Services team for over 15 years, will be joining Cindi Boston as a Vice President at Heartbeat International.
Betty’s new title is Vice President of Ministry Services, and Cindi will continue to serve with the title, Vice President of Mission Advancement.
"Betty and I have worked together in pregnancy help ministry since 1983, and she has been a wise counselor to me (on matters both professional and personal!) for over 30 years,” says Peggy Hartshorn, Ph.D., Chairman of the Board of Heartbeat International, “So, I can confirm that she brings both a broad and deep level of knowledge, experience, creativity, passion, and wisdom to her position. Plus, her leadership is informed by her love of Christ and a focus on relationship. I can't think of a better combination! I am thrilled that Betty has accepted an even greater responsibility for Heartbeat's services to YOU, our affiliates, as Vice President of Ministry Services.”
Betty will continue to lead and serve the Ministry Services team, as members of the team take new titles as well. Dawn Lunsford, who will continue to make online learning available to the pregnancy help movement, takes the title of Director of Academy, and Christa Brown, who will continue to lead the Abortion Pill Rescue Network and work with those seeking to add medical services to their organizations, takes the title Director of Medical Impact.
Betty isn’t alone joining the Executive team. Director of Operations, Tony Gruber is also stepping into the executive team as Controller, and Danielle White, Esq. takes the title of Heartbeat General Counsel.
While not much changes for you, our affiliates (you’ll still be working with the same people for the same reasons!), we hope you’ll celebrate with us as we grow and adapt.
Meet the Medical Impact Team - Lisa Searle
This month we are highlighting Lisa Searle, one of our Healthcare Team Managers. Lisa assists our affiliates with medical questions and oversees the Abortion Pill Reversal Hotline. Before joining the Medical Impact Team almost two years ago, she served for two years as an Abortion Pill Reversal Hotline Consultant. Lisa brings to our team 19 years of nursing experience with four of those years spent serving within her local pregnancy help center. She brings so much wisdom to our team and is always willing to offer education and assistance to advance the pregnancy help community. We count ourselves blessed to have her on the team!
Where did you grow up and go to school?
I grew up in the heart of eastern North Carolina. Goldsboro is a little town known for pigs, pickles, and planes. Goldsboro is home to the Seymour Johnson Airforce Base. Mount Olive Pickle Company is not too far from town. You will find some of the best Eastern North Carolina BBQ as you drive through headed to the coast which is only two hours away. Barton College is in Wilson, North Carolina. I attended Barton College and earned my nursing degree.
Share with us about your family.
My husband and I are celebrating 17 years of marriage this month. God has blessed us with two children, Costin, 16 years old and Asher, 9 years old. We share our home with two dogs Izzy and Sarge, our crazy kitty Petunia Butterfly, two African Dwarf Frogs, Bobby and Chunky, as well as Karen, the snail.
What was your favorite part of helping clients in the pregnancy center?
Spending time with the abortion-minded client is what I love to do.
Getting to know her, building trust to form a lasting relationship. I enjoy providing abortion education, introducing the client to her baby during her first ultrasound and guiding her down a path of life-affirming choices.
Tell us about what brought you to Heartbeat International.
While working in the pregnancy center I learned about Abortion Pill Rescue Network and was encouraged by my peers to join the team of nurse consultants. I worked as a nurse consultant for two years prior to becoming a part of the Medical Impact Team. I accepted the position of Nurse Manager with Heartbeat International in November 2019.
Tell us about your experiences sharing APR with others through presentations.
Educating the community on how to help a woman who is desperately seeking to reverse her abortion is life-changing and the impact goes beyond what we can predict. The audience is receptive and amazed at how this treatment works. Likewise, I stand in awe at what God has given us—a treatment that can give women a second chance at choice! It really is amazing.
Tell us about your experiences helping clients on the APR Hotline and now overseeing the Hotline as one of the Healthcare Team Managers.
There are currently four Healthcare Team Managers who rotate through the hotline schedule. We each oversee the hotline one week out of the month. The hotline consists of 34 nurse consultants, 3 Nurse Advocates, and a total of 42 shifts per week. The days are tough. We experience spiritual warfare, and the battles are difficult.
Our team believes in the mission of APRN. We are strong in faith and have been called to this position for such a time as this. We fight to save the lives of babies and to protect women and families from the pain of abortion. The devil attempts to deceive and divide but we stand firm that the devil will never win. Our faith in God, our leadership, and our commitment to each other get us through the toughest days. Oversight week is one of the most exhausting weeks, but it is also full of rewards. Making a difference in the lives of women, children, and families makes it worth every second.
Tell us about working on the Medical Impact Team.
Educating Pregnancy Help Organizations on how to best meet the needs of their community is important. I enjoy helping organizations develop medical policy and procedures that will allow them to be successful when faced with an unplanned pregnancy, abortion, STI, and disruption of sexual integrity within their community.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I love educating people and I get to do it often here at Heartbeat International. Whether I am teaching the abortion-minded client about reversal or the Pregnancy Help Center about starting medical services, I am sharing useful information that can be used to make the world a little better.
What are your favorite things to do outside of work?
Visiting the beach and spending time with friends and family is great self-care for me. You can find me on the dock enjoying God’s beautiful creation.
What is something else you would like to share?
When I was 13 years old, I discovered my love for Women’s Health while volunteering as a Candy Striper in the Labor and Delivery Unit of the local hospital. As a young nursing student, I took a job in an abortion clinic because of my desire to help women and to also increase my knowledge in Gynecology. The time spent in the abortion clinic revealed a painful truth about abortion but most of all has given me an undying passion to protect the preborn and those affected by abortion. After leaving the abortion clinic, I went on to enjoy a successful career in obstetrical nursing. Prior to joining the team at Heartbeat International, I spent four years as a nurse manager of a Pregnancy Center where I was given the support I needed to begin my healing journey. I am grateful to God for his grace and mercy and for giving purpose to my past.
Meet the Medical Impact Team: Darcy Noltemeyer
This month we are highlighting Darcy Noltemeyer, one of our Medical Impact Office Assistants. Darcy brings joy and encouragement as she provides organization and assistance to our team in many ways. She is a blessing to us all as she serves with a smile and a servant’s heart in all she does. We are so thankful for Darcy and all she brings to our team!
Where did you grow up and go to school?
I grew up in Grove City, a small town just outside of Columbus, Ohio. For college I attended The Ohio State University for Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.
Share with us about your family.
I have been blessed with such a close family despite being so spread out across different states. My dad passed away when I was a senior in high school, so I am thankful to still have my wonderful mom to hug. I am the youngest of four children, and have six adorable nieces and nephews. I started dating my high school sweetheart when we were 16. We have now been married for almost 3 years, with two rescue Pomeranians, Bingley and Evee.
Tell us about what brought you to Heartbeat International.
Growing up as the daughter of a pastor, I understood from an early age the struggles that many people faced in their lives. I could see for myself how much expressing and sharing God’s love could change the hearts of people and help them when they needed it most. My heart has always been designed to help and serve others, and I never felt like I was accomplishing that fully in the beginning of my adult career. By God’s grace I stumbled upon a job listing for Heartbeat International and I was instantly intrigued. After researching the company, delving deeper into its founding, learning of the current works they were involved in, and their vision for the future; I knew God was calling me to place roots in the good ground they had cultivated. My desire was to be a part of an organization that aligned with my beliefs that would allow me to work wholeheartedly towards advancing their mission. I am thankful to have found that with Heartbeat.
What do you enjoy most about your work as Office Assistant for the Medical Impact?
Every day is new and varies in what I get to do! I enjoy a job that gives room for growth in ideas and responsibilities. I am very detail oriented, and love being given statistical tasks or projects that allow for me to be creative in presentation. It is so encouraging to be able to share with people all across the world the new hope we can give women, and to receive so much intrigue, excitement, and willingness in response. Overall, I am thankful for the trust that has been placed on me to support the Medical Impact Team.
Tell us about working on the Medical Impact Team.
Working with the Medical Impact Team is so unique! We are spread across two countries and still remain well connected. The trust that is shared amongst each other is nothing short of extraordinary. I have always been so impressed with how valued everyone’s ideas, thoughts, and questions have been with the team as a whole. Since I started here at Heartbeat, I have seen the passion Medical Impact has for the unborn, the commitment to the women, and the sincere heart for the people they interact with daily. They really do keep such a positive and loving atmosphere no matter what the team faces. I have only felt acceptance since I joined, and I love being a part of it!
What are your favorite things to do outside of work?
I enjoy the outdoors! Many of my past times include hiking, kayaking, fishing, and walking my dogs with my husband and friends. I am a certified scuba diver, but I don’t get to do that as often as I would like to outside of Ohio. If it involves tea, I’m in! I spend time going to local tea shops as I travel, and enjoy a nice cup or glass of tea when relaxing at home. I have always loved being an aunt, and spend a lot of time playing with them as well.
What else would you like to share?
Joining Heartbeat International has been such a wonderful experience, and I am proud to be a part of an organization that is moving forward to do great and impactful things in the world.
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Meet the Medical Impact Team: Maria Beigel
This month we are highlighting Maria Beigel, one of our Medical Impact Office Assistants. Maria brings joy and encouragement as she provides organization and assistance to our team in many ways. She is a blessing to us all as she serves with a smile and a servant’s heart in all she does. We are so thankful for Maria and all she brings to our team!
Where did you grow up and go to school?
I grew up in a very small farming community called Coldwater, Ohio and attended Wright State Lake Campus for my associates degree in Business Administration. I graduated with that degree in 2015.
Share with us about your family.
I’ve been so blessed by my family and I’m so thankful to have the relationship that I do with my parents and my siblings. I am the fifth of six children and all of my older siblings are married with children now, so I have a lot of nieces and nephews to love on! 14 to be exact. I’ve been married to my husband, Austin, for four years this past December and we have two children - a 2-year-old daughter named Vera and a 5-month-old son named Graham. We also have a very spoiled ragdoll cat named Shapiro (Ro for short).
Tell us about what brought you to Heartbeat International.
When I moved to Columbus and I was looking for a job, my former pastor at my parent’s church, Michael Spencer (who now works for Project LifeVoice), recommended I look into Heartbeat International. As I was growing up, Michael played a big role in developing my passion for the unborn and I was eager to take his advice and I’m so glad I did!
Tell us about your experience sharing APR with others.
It’s always very interesting to tell people what I do for work, because most of them previously had no idea that it is even possible to reverse the effects of a chemical abortion. I love spreading the word about Abortion Pill Reversal!
What do you enjoy most about your work?
Hands down, the best part of my job is reaching out to former APRN clients to see how their experience with Abortion Pill Reversal was and how they’re doing now. The responses that I’ve gotten have brought me to tears. I get to see photos of ultrasounds and born children who wouldn’t have had a chance at life without the APRN, and I get to hear the testimonies of their moms, who are so thankful and moved that there was someone who could help them, even when there were others pressuring them to continue their abortions.
Tell us about working on the Medical Impact Team.
I couldn’t have asked for a better group of women to work with. From the day that I started working with the Medical Impact Team, I’ve felt welcomed and loved and appreciated. This team has faced many spiritual battles and continues to overcome and manages to stay positive in spite of everything. We are a unique team, in that only one of us is actually in office in Columbus. The rest are remote and working all over the country (and one in Canada), which presents a unique dynamic. Because of this, it’s extremely special when I do get to see others on the Medical Impact Team in person and I look forward to our weekly Tuesday meetings where we get to see a glimpse into each other’s lives.
What are your favorite things to do outside of work?
I really enjoy visiting my hometown and my parents and taking my kids to the places I went as I was growing up. I stay at home with my children and love being a mom to them and getting to watch them grow up. I also enjoy reading, doing puzzles, playing tennis, playing board games, listening to podcasts, and going on date nights with my husband.
What else would you like to share?
I’m very thankful to be part of the Medical Impact team! I can see that we are making a difference and I’m so excited to see how God uses us in 2022.