American Pregnancy Association
About
The American Pregnancy Association (APA) is a non-profit organization based in Irving, Texas, focused on promoting anti-abortion views by providing information on pregnancy and reproductive health. Founded in 1995 under the name America's Pregnancy Helpline by Mike and Annie Sheaffer, who wrote a book titled The Ultimate Gift: A True Love Story. The organization initially operated as a helpline aimed at offering support and guidance to pregnant individuals. During its early years, from 1995 to 2003, the helpline served approximately 147,000 women and families, emphasizing alternatives to abortion.
In 2003, the organization transitioned from a helpline to a formal non-profit entity, rebranding itself as the American Pregnancy Association. This change marked a significant expansion in its mission, allowing it to reach a broader audience and enhance its outreach efforts. Under the leadership of Brad Imler, a prominent anti-abortion activist, the organization grew in influence and began to develop a more structured approach to its initiatives.
Leadership Changes
Brad Imler led the APA until 2019, when he departed to establish a Christian adoption agency. Following his departure, Lynn Handley took over the leadership, continuing the organization’s mission to provide resources and support to those facing unplanned pregnancies.
The American Pregnancy Association operates an informative website that offers a range of resources, including articles, FAQs, and guidance on pregnancy, prenatal care, and alternatives to abortion. This online platform serves as a critical tool for disseminating information and reaching individuals who may be seeking support or guidance during their pregnancy journey.
Controversy
The American Pregnancy Association's website has faced criticism for containing what some sources, including *Mother Jones*, have described as "rife with medically inaccurate information," raising concerns about the reliability and safety of the resources it provides to individuals seeking guidance during pregnancy. Journalists and activists have consistently labeled the organization as an anti-abortion group, highlighting its focus on discouraging abortion through the promotion of alternative options and its framing of pregnancy-related information. This characterization underscores the organization’s alignment with specific ideological beliefs that prioritize anti-abortion stances, which critics argue may compromise the objectivity and accuracy of the information presented on its platform, potentially impacting the well-being and decision-making of those seeking assistance.