Fertility Support Group Shine Announces Its Transition To National Nonprofit
Chicago, Illinois (PRWEB) October 28, 2014 -- Shine: A Light on Fertility, an organization dedicated to those affected by fertility challenges, today announced its transition to a national nonprofit after securing the 501(c)(3) exempt charitable organization status. Through support, education, and advocacy, Shine creates a community focused on empowering through knowledge and providing a voice for those affected by fertility challenges.
“Shine was born from my personal journey through infertility and at its core it is a unique community providing education and knowledge to those in need of support,” said Katie O’Connor, founder of Shine: A Light on Fertility. “We are thrilled to announce our transition to a national nonprofit organization. Achieving this status will enable us to extend our services to a national community who are impacted by fertility challenges and dealing with this prominent yet often undiscussed issue.”
As part of its transition to a national nonprofit, Shine will launch two new programs. The first, an advocacy initiative, will provide awareness and education on fertility health and family building options. The second, a mentoring program called Fertility Friends, will connect women who have gone through the in vitro fertilization process with those who are beginning the treatment.
The nonprofit has also selected a board of directors, including Mariann Madden, Vice President, Courtney Marincsin, Secretary, and Krystal Funk, Director of Mentoring. The board members will help extend the reach of the program by securing potential partnerships with and funding from medical organizations and industry professionals. Shine is currently partnered with Fertility Centers of Illinois and Chicago Women’s Health Group, among others.
“Coming from the legal profession, I understand the importance of having a team of people to work through problems and I feel a support system is an invaluable tool,” said Marincsin. “Shine creates a sounding board as one goes through the dark period that is infertility, and I’m excited to help its network grow.”
Shine’s monthly group sessions and online community forum offer a place where those affected by fertility challenges can feel secure to share their stories and ask questions. Meetings provide peer support through open discussion and professional knowledge from guest speaker seminars.
“Shine is an advocate for a proactive approach to one’s own fertility and family building options,” said Dr. Eve Feinberg of Fertility Centers of Illinois. “Its wide network of members, partners, and friends provides individuals with the support they need to not only treat their medical concerns but to also treat their emotional wellbeing."
Shine: A Light on Fertility currently operates in the Chicago area and suburbs including Evanston, Naperville, and Northbrook, with plans to offer national support moving forward. Membership has several package options and drop-in sessions are also available. Members receive discounts with local businesses including The Dailey Method, Core Power Yoga, and Urban Oasis, as well as discounts on tickets to Shine sponsored special events.
About Shine: A Light on Fertility
Shine: A Light on Fertility is a national nonprofit offering support to those affected by fertility challenges. Through support, education, and advocacy, Shine creates a community focused on empowering through knowledge and providing a voice for those affected by fertility challenges. Shine provides monthly meetings, professional seminars, advocacy events, and mentoring to members in the Chicago area and beyond.
Casey Swanson, Shine: A Light on Fertility, http://www.shinefertility.org, +1 6308856055, [email protected]
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