In 1996, an inspiring person attended Equipped to Serve, our volunteer training for women and men interested in serving clients. This volunteer was Maureen Yockey. Maureen was working for Xerox at the time but had a huge heart for women and the sanctity of life and wanted to help Alternatives. Maureen began as a volunteer and eventually became the organization’s 2nd executive director. Maureen’s compassion, creativity and business sense came together to make a huge impact on the pregnancy center. During Maureen’s time at Alternatives she expanded our 24-Hour Helpline, led us through rain, sleet and snow at the Walk for Alternatives, was instrumental in having an RV retrofitted to be a mobile testing clinic, established A Promising Future, our youth education program and so much more. It has been our desire to honor the legacy of Maureen Yockey and we were able to do that on October 8 at our 40th-year anniversary event, Alternatives at the Zoo- Let’s Roar for Life. In front of Maureen’s husband, sister, brother-in-law, friends and supporters, we spoke of her beautiful life with the backdrop of the zoo surrounded by the wonder of creation! During this special evening, we presented the Maureen Yockey Legacy Award to Maureen “Reenie” May, a long-time volunteer with Alternatives. Reenie volunteered for Alternatives for over 20 years- working with clients, sorting baby clothes, helping at the Walk for Alternatives and spreading joy throughout our offices. Reenie’s caring heart is best expressed in this email we received from one of her previous clients…
“Over five years ago, I visited the Denver downtown location and met with a volunteer named Maureen May. I was determined to have an abortion but Maureen’s support, guidance, patience and non-judgment gave me strength and faith that I could proceed with the pregnancy. I have deep gratitude toward Maureen. She supported me through the hardest time of my life. Thank you so much! Thank you!”
Reenie was beaming as she accepted the award in honor of the legacy of Maureen Yockey.
Maureen Yockey went to be with the Lord in 2019. She was a beautiful wife, mom, daughter, sister, friend and colleague. Maureen is greatly missed. It is the hope and intent of our staff, volunteers and donors to honor Maureen’s legacy every day through our faith in the Lord, our commitment to teens, women, and men and the lives of the preborn.