The International Cesarean Awareness Network is powered by the selfless efforts of our numerous volunteers. We cannot thank our dedicated volunteers enough for their cooperation and service in assisting ICAN with accomplishing its mission. In an effort to acknowledge some of our amazing volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to offer support, education, and advocacy for the mothers in their area, the International Cesarean Awareness Network is pleased to announce Amber Pillar as the March 2017 Volunteer of the Month. Amber is a dedicated volunteer out of ICAN of both Omaha and North Houston who’s been with ICAN for eight years. We appreciate the work she does!
How did you first find ICAN?
I found ICAN doing research online after my cesarean for a breech baby in 2007. There were no chapters in my state at the time so I got together with another mama I knew and we founded the first chapter in Nebraska (ICAN of Omaha) and I lead that chapter for 7 years until my family moved to Houston last year. Once we settled in Houston, I saw that there was not enough ICAN coverage for such a large city and started working with the board in getting another chapter opened here.
What motivates you as a volunteer?
Seeing women empowered to be responsible for their births and gain confidence in themselves.
Do you have a profession or any other passions outside of ICAN?
I am passionate about supporting childbearing families. I have been a birth doula for 4.5 years and have served as leader of the local doulas association (in Omaha). Outside of birth, I am passionate about homeschooling my three kids and being a wife to my husband. I am also a Christian and my relationship with The Lord brings me so much fulfillment, purpose, and wholeness…I am passionate about serving and loving Him well and continuing to grow in His purpose for me.
What was your proudest moment as an ICAN volunteer? What about your hardest?
Volunteering in general isn’t easy. And our role as ICAN leaders is especially hard because of all the emotions involved in this work, both with ourselves and with the women we serve. I remember one meeting in Omaha for which only one person showed up for. It was her first meeting. At first I was a bit embarrassed that nobody else came but this mom and I talked for a very long time and it turned out that she badly needed to share her story with someone and to just be heard and validated and she was actually relieved that she was the only one there. That’s the moment that I realized how important this work is and that it is worth it to help even just one mom. I was proud of myself for opening this opportunity for women in my community. My hardest moment was leaving my chapter in Omaha. I had no doubt that I was handing it over to some awesome ladies (and I’m so proud of what they are doing there!), but it was still hard to let it go.
Thank you, Amber, for all you do!
