Caroline’s Story: Welcomed, Heard, and Supported at Avail
Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.
*Names changed for confidentiality.
When Caroline first walked into Avail NYC’s office in Midtown Manhattan, she didn’t know what to expect. Introduced to Avail by a former boss in 2012, she was quickly drawn in by the mission and the warmth she felt from the very beginning. “I kind of fell in love with it,” she says, her voice lighting up at the memory.
A Safe Haven for Everyone
For Caroline, one thing stands out about Avail: everyone is welcome.
“I think what's so important to me about what Avail NYC is doing—and what I always share with people—is that
it is a
completely safe space for both men and women alike. I always emphasize that because I think so many people are like, ‘Oh, well, you know, it's only for women,’ and I'm like, ‘No, no, Avail NYC is not.
Men are welcome, too.’”
Avail’s commitment to being truly inclusive is felt from the moment someone steps through the door or connects with a personal advocate online. It doesn’t matter what you believe or where you come from. “It's apolitical, and regardless of what religious background you have, you’re welcome,” Caroline says.
Peace in Every Detail
Reflecting on her first visit to Avail’s office, Caroline remembers a deep sense of peace.
“Just the fact that the women that walk into the Avail space feel
completely comfortable to be themselves was something that resonated with me when I was in the first Avail NYC office almost eight years ago. The physical space itself felt really peaceful—everything from the decor, to the choice of paintings on the wall, to the type of chair; it's just very peaceful.”
At Avail, every detail is intentional. From our friendly staff, to the tea and candy waiting for you in the waiting room, to the care shown in every conversation. It’s all designed to make each person feel safe, supported, and valued. As Caroline puts it, “You feel seen. You feel heard.”
Why I Give and Why I Stay Involved
Caroline’s love for Avail goes deeper than admiration. She’s chosen to support Avail year after year, putting her belief into action.
“Personally, I believe that
every person is important.
I cannot say that if I don't back it up. I want people to know that I put my money where my mouth is and it's not just talk, that I actually do really care about the women and men who find themselves in this place.”
Her hope is that others, too, will experience the unique care and support that Avail provides, whether they’re facing an unintended pregnancy, processing an abortion experience, or simply in need of a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk.
A Lasting Impact
For Caroline, Avail is more than a resource. It’s a safe haven. It’s a place where people are empowered to make confident decisions, where everyone is treated with dignity, and where no one has to feel alone. Her story is just one example of the lasting impact that compassion, presence, and intentional care can make in the lives of women and men in New York City and beyond.
If you or someone you know could benefit from a confidential, judgment-free conversation, Avail NYC is here to listen and walk with you. Connect with a personal advocate today, or learn more about our support services for an unintended pregnancy and after-abortion support.
Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.
*Names changed for confidentiality.
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ABOUT AVAIL
Avail NYC provides free, compassionate support for women and men navigating unexpected pregnancies or seeking support after an abortion. Our trained Personal Advocates offer a safe, confidential space online or in-person to process emotions and explore options. Equipping clients with personalized coping strategies and resources, we empower them to move forward with confidence at their own pace. Avail NYC is not a medical provider. To learn more or meet with a personal advocate, visit Avail NYC.
