FULL ACCESS: BREAKING BARRIERS TO BIRTH CONTROL, ONE NEWSLETTER AT A TIME
The new year is in full swing, and at A Step Ahead Chattanooga we’re ready to build on our momentum to expand our impact in 2025. The close of last year was filled with progress and inspiration, from the excitement of Giving Tuesday collaborations to empowering women in our community with access to free birth control. It was all fueled by your incredible support and overwhelming dedication to our mission, reminding us just how vital this work truly is.
Thank you.
In this newsletter, we’re thrilled to highlight some recent changes and improvements and introduce you to our new Board of Directors. Thank you for partnering with us as we continue to break down barriers to contraception and create opportunities for women to thrive.
Although we faced a number of challenges and changes in 2024, we also hit some incredible milestones and streamlined our services in a way that improves outcomes for the people we aim to serve. These achievements didn’t happen by chance—they were the result of our team’s dedication, strategic vision, and an unwavering commitment to our mission. By building on this momentum, we’ve positioned ourselves for even greater impact in the year ahead. As we reflect on our progress, we’re also looking forward – identifying new opportunities to expand access, enhance efficiency, and strengthen our support for those who need it most.
Here are just a few highlights from 2024:
More than 1,756 people accessed free birth control through ASAC last year, and together, we covered more than $330,268.04 in medical expenses on their behalf.
We answered 971 appointment line calls, 253 (35%) more than we answered in 2023.
372 people received one-on-one patient-centered contraceptive counseling with our Nurse Navigation Director or a health educator, helping prepare them for their birth control appointment (more on that below!).
We added a texting option for the people we serve, so they can more conveniently communicate with ASAC staff.
We launched our live Spanish-language appointment line and answered over 223 calls from Spanish speakers.
There are so many good, important things happening at ASAC. What’s clear is that the demand for our services and the importance of our mission continues to grow.
Your support is critical to ensuring that we can respond to that increased demand and also expand our impact and reach even further. Whether you shared a social media post, volunteered with us, made a financial gift, or passed along information about our work, you played a critical role in our ability to ensure that every person in our region can access birth control and get pregnant on their terms.
Thank you,
Mandy Cowley
ASAC Executive Director
We are excited to announce our 2025 Board of Directors, including our amazing new board leaders and members! ✨ These talented individuals bring their unique expertise, passion, and unwavering commitment to support our mission: removing barriers to contraception through education, outreach, and access to free birth control.
Our board plays a vital role in driving our work forward and making a lasting impact on our community. Thank you for standing with us and championing accessible contraception for all. Together, we are creating a brighter future!
One of the core changes for ASAC in 2024 was a strategic shift in our education programming. While we’ll be scaling back on in-person group education sessions, we’re excited to enhance our digital education and provide increased one-on-one support through our Nurse Navigation Director, Mandi Easterly, BSN RN.
Now individuals can schedule a 30-minute call with Mandi where they can ask questions like:
What are the different birth control methods, and what are their benefits?
What is the insertion process like for IUDs and implants?
How do specific methods work, including hormonal and non-hormonal options
Already in a short time, we’ve seen how impactful personalized education can be for individuals seeking our services. There are a lot of complexities around accessing birth control, and we’re committed to making the process easier and more accessible for everyone. Not only does it allow the people we serve to access more individualized information about contraception, but it also provides support for our clinical partners as patients are more knowledgeable about their birth control options before their appointment.
ASAC Nurse Navigator
Mandi Easterly, BSN-RN
“There has been this shift, especially over the last few years of centering patients’ experiences, needs, and preferences in their care. People feel more empowered to ask questions, make informed decisions, and advocate for what works best for their lives and health. We want to be a resource for individuals to ask questions, feel prepared to meet with their provider, and confidently prioritize their needs and health. Everyone deserves care that aligns with their unique circumstances, and we’re here to help make that possible.”
** 💻ON THE BLOG
One of our most recent blog post breaks down everything you need to know about the process of what to expect with an implant (Nexplanon) insertion. Learn from Kara Mosesso, ANP-BC, about what an implant is, how to prepare for your appointment, what to expect during the procedure, and tips for comfort afterward.
** 💻ON THE BLOG
Did you know that birth control offers numerous health benefits beyond preventing pregnancy? In our latest blog post, Kara Mosesso, ANP-BC explores how hormonal contraceptives can help manage various conditions, including heavy periods, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), hormonal acne, and more.
READ MORE »
Our mission comes to life through the stories of those we serve. These heartfelt testimonials highlight the real impact of providing free access to birth control and empowering individuals to take charge of their futures. We’re honored to share their experiences and show how your support makes a difference every day.
“I am so grateful to have found out about this organization. Access to health care overall, but especially reproductive health, can be incredibly daunting to navigate confidently when there are endless options to consider and so much fear and stigma around them. I found this organization very informative, encouraging, and low stress and have referred several women to it who held the same fears about their options.”
– Naomi, ASAC Client
“A Step Ahead makes me feel so much safer about my future. It just gives me the power to have control of my life in a way I that wouldn’t be able to do without A Step Ahead”
-Kamila, ASAC Client
📍 The Signal | 21 Choo Choo Ave
📅 Sunday, Feb 9 | 11 AM – 4 PM
✨ VIP Shopping Hour: 10 AM – 11 AM
Treat yourself to a fun day featuring:
Live embroidery, flash tattoos, charm bar, live portraits
Flower truck and Insta-worthy photo booth designed by The August Sisters
Artisan Market with over 45 hand-selected local makers
Food trucks with gluten-free & vegan options, cocktails, mocktails, and espresso bar
Don’t miss our booth for reproductive health education and giveaways!
🎟️ Grab your $25 VIP ticket for early access, special giveaways, and exclusive perks. See you there!
GET VIP TICKETS
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