In 2021, Blue Ridge Women’s Center did something bold, courageous, and counter-cultural—we launched a men’s ministry.
Earlier that year, BRWC CEO Ann Russell reviewed national research that confirmed what we had long suspected: the father of the baby is often the single most influential person in a woman’s decision to choose life or abortion. Never one to shy away from going against the cultural grain, Ann began envisioning a men’s ministry at Blue Ridge Women’s Center. That vision became reality in January 2022 with the hiring of Carl Benjamin as our first Men’s Ministry Leader, and something very special was born.
With a mission to challenge men to become fathers who provide and protect rather than escape and neglect, Carl undertook the challenging work of building our male advocate ministry from the ground up. He recruited and trained a team of male advocates to meet one-on-one with fathers, while our female advocates cared for mothers.
Since then, Carl and his team of dedicated male advocates have ministered to more than 467 expectant fathers. While mothers received pregnancy information, ultrasounds, and STI testing, fathers learned about abortion procedures and risks, explored their vital role in their child’s life, and—when God opened the door—heard the hope of the gospel. Carl’s goal was simple: to encourage men to embrace the God-given responsibility of fatherhood and to stand beside the mothers of their children with courage, love, and commitment.
Our female advocates often say they are grateful to have male advocates available when fathers come through our doors. Just as the angel called Joseph into his role as a father (Matthew 1:20), our male advocates seek to awaken something God has placed deep within a man’s heart—a calling to love, protect, and provide for his child. That calling is often best heard from another man.
On July 17, 2026, Carl completed his final day in this role at BRWC as he steps into a different season of ministry—grandparenthood. He and his wife, Terrie (who also faithfully served at BRWC for a season), have been blessed with a growing number of grandchildren and look forward to investing deeply in this new chapter of life. They also plan to travel more, and Carl will continue advocating for the vital role of men in the Christian family through his work with Noble Warriors.
Carl, thank you for saying “yes” when God called you to build something that had never existed at BRWC. Thank you for the countless conversations and hours spent eye-to-eye with men at one of the most pivotal moments of their lives. Because of your obedience, families have been strengthened, and lives have been changed for generations to come.
Your legacy will continue long after your final day at Blue Ridge Women’s Center. You will be missed, and we pray God’s richest blessings over you and Terrie as you begin this wonderful new season.
