Our History in Hayward
2007 – Founded
New Life Resource Center began in 2007 as Northwoods New Life Pregnancy Center, the first and only pregnancy resource center in Hayward. At a time when support options were limited,
the center offered hope and help to women and families facing unplanned pregnancies.
2015 – Expanded Services
In 2015, the center moved to Hwy 27 North, expanding its space to welcome more clients and provide additional services—including free medical care, mentoring, and parenting education.
2021 – A Family Resource Center
By 2021, the center had grown into a combined Pregnancy and Family Resource Center,
serving not only women in crisis pregnancies but also families seeking long-term support and education.
2024 – A New Home
In 2024, the Hayward center moved to 16018 Dyno Drive, a new facility designed to meet the growing needs of the community. The space provided dedicated medical areas for pregnancy
testing, ultrasounds, and STI testing, along with expanded rooms for parenting education and family support. This exciting step forward was celebrated with a grand opening in the summer of 2024, marking a milestone of growth and impact.
2025 – A New Chapter with Echo Health
In June of 2025 New Life Resource Center merged with Chequamegon Pregnancy Center inAshland to become Echo Health—a united ministry, stronger together, continuing the mission to
echo life, love, and hope into our communities.
Our History in Ashland
2017 – A Vision Placed on a Heart
In September 2017, board member Elaine Leroy felt God’s call to begin a pregnancy resource
center in Ashland. After visiting established centers in Hayward and Ironwood, she prayed, sought counsel, and received confirmation that this was the work God had prepared.
2018 – Building the Foundation
In January 2018, Prayers for Life began—weekly prayer gatherings for God’s direction and provision. Through these months, a small group of churches and leaders rallied around the vision, though practical next steps felt unclear.
2019 – God Provides a Way
In early 2019, God brought Tom Garnett, the first Board Chairman, whose experience filled critical gaps. In quick succession, Chequamegon Pregnancy Center incorporated, received
nonprofit status, formed a board, and rented office space in the Wilmarth Mansion. By
September 18, 2019, CPC was officially a 501(c)(3) organization—a rapid approval that bore
God’s clear favor. Soon after, major donors stepped forward, providing rent support and foundational gifts that propelled the center forward.
2020 – Opening the Doors
On January 27, 2020, CPC held its Grand Opening, exactly two years after Prayers for Life had begun. The center quickly hired its first Executive Director, organized community events, and
began serving clients with free pregnancy-related services.
2020–2021 – Overcoming Challenges
Just six weeks after opening, the pandemic forced CPC to close temporarily. By May, the center reopened in faith, continuing to serve in-person clients. In 2020 and 2021, CPC received grants,
launched an ultrasound project, and through support from Wisconsin Right to Life, the Knights of Columbus, and donors, received its first ultrasound machine. Nurses and a volunteer
sonographer soon began offering services.
2021 – A Permanent Home
In April 2021, CPC purchased property at Chapple Avenue & Main Street, made possible by a generous $50,000 gift from longtime supporter Judy McNamara. Renovations began immediately to create a welcoming and private space for clients.
2022 – Growing Community Support
By 2022, CPC had completed a Capital Campaign to pay off the mortgage. That fall, CPC
hosted its first Gala at Harbor View Event Center, drawing over 100 guests and even protestors—highlighting the importance of the mission. In October, Executive Director Kris Westlund stepped down, and God provided new leadership through Anika Anderson, who began in November 2022.
2023 – Expanding Outreach
In June 2023, CPC held its first Carnival Fundraiser, building awareness and community support. Local leaders, including State Senator Romaine Quinn, attended in visible support of the center.
A New Chapter with Echo Health
In 2025, Chequamegon Pregnancy Center united with New Life Resource Center in Hayward to form Echo Health—a single ministry, stronger together, continuing the mission to echo life, love, and hope into our communities.