But we (and some others from around the country) were there for a different purpose: readying new ventures in our respective states: independent state Family Policy Councils, created at the encouragement of Focus. Dr. Dobson wanted to emphasize in person how important our mission is – strengthening the institution of the family, respect for life and religious liberty, and resisting forces that undermine those precious values. I'm sure you know his passion for the cause, and we sure felt it that day.
PA Family Institute was among the first to open its doors (on the day after Labor Day, 35 years ago), and today, thanks to the generosity and engagement of folks like you across Pennsylvania we're among the top three or four Family Policy Councils (of 40) in the nation in size, influence and impact.
Well, Susan and I no longer are a young married couple (although she certainly looks the part); we have five grown children, all are married (and live in Pennsylvania!), and we have seven grandchildren. And if Dr. Dobson sat down next to us now, the first thing we'd probably do is swap grandchildren stories and show pictures.
Maybe you'd do the same. Perhaps images of children or grandchildren come to your mind right now. That's the thing about family. The love you have for them and they for you. Family is the glue that holds society together, the building block of civilization, and the motivating factor for much of the sacrifice, hard work, and accomplishments we see all around us.
And it's why we're called the Pennsylvania Family Institute – first, to honor that reality, and then to work to replenish the soil – the environment – that enables the family to flourish. I'm glad for that encouragement from Dr. Dobson 35 years ago – to stand strong for the family. I can't imagine a better investment – and I'm thankful for you and the many who see it the same way and have partnered with us over these decades. Onward!
For the family,
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