If you ask a child what he would like for his birthday, prepare to be overwhelmed with a long list of items: a bike, video games, sports equipment, books, specific brands of clothing, a pet, an iPod/iPad/iPhone, gift cards – the list can go on and on.

If you ask an adult, his list will likely be quite different. In the years between grade school and middle age, our wants and needs change dramatically. Many of us reach a point where we begin to consider downsizing and simplifying our lives. The desire to acquire more “stuff” wanes as we develop an increased appreciation for the intangibles that money can’t buy – salvation for our loved ones, good health, time with family, lifelong friendships, and Christian fellowship.

This month, we are celebrating the 55th birthday of my longtime friend, boss, and brother in Christ, Dave Smith.

We could fill the office with balloons and ribbons to create a festive atmosphere. We could write heartfelt birthday wishes and encouraging messages to him, like: “Happy birthday to a great guy!” and “Best boss ever!” But knowing Dave for many years as I do, these would not bless him as much as what I am proposing.

What would truly bless him on his 55th birthday is to help continue Illinois Family Institute’s life-affirming and God-honoring work. Our goal is to raise $5,500 this month to help IFI through the summer doldrums and better prepare for the upcoming election in time to get our voter guides out to residents throughout the state.

IFI will use your gift to continue to reflect the brilliance of God’s Truth and transform the darkness and deception that permeate our government and culture. Whether we make that goal or not, all donations will be used to continue the work God has put before us.

While we know that this birthday challenge may be a little unusual, let your decision and action be informed by the Apostle Paul’s exhortation to the Colossians when he wrote,

“And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”  ~Colossians 3:17

Please consider accepting this birthday challenge to bless Dave and the vital ministry of Illinois Family Institute. Together we can continue to uphold pro-life, pro-marriage, and pro-family truths in Illinois.

Thank you for your dedication to and support of the work of IFI.  May the Lord bless you as you strive to always bring glory and honor to Him.

Here are the ways you can give:

Click HERE to support Illinois Family Institute (IFI). Contributions to IFI are tax-deductible and support our educational efforts.

You can also send a gift via snail mail to Illinois Family Institute, P.O. Box 876, Tinley Park, IL  60477.

We thank God for His steadfast provision through your generosity!

Many thanks and God bless you!

Sincerely,

Kathy Valente, Director of Operation
Illinois Family Institute

God placed Dave at the helm of IFI to navigate the oft murky waters
of Illinois government through biblical leadership, guidance and wisdom.
~Karen Hayes, IFI Board Member

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“Decide what you want to do most, then set out to do it.”  ~Mildred Jefferson

This quote by Mildred Jefferson fits my friend of twenty plus years, Dave Smith.
He has stayed true to the pro-life pro-family movement in both good times and in bad times.
David understands well that God does not call us to always win, but to be ever faithful.
~Bonne Quirke, President, Lake County Right to Life and Illinois Family Action board member.