The Pregnancy Center of Dillon County held the “Night For Life 2026” Gala on Thursday, April 30, at the First Baptist Church of Dillon.
Pastor David Owens of Beulah Baptist Church was the Master of Ceremonies. Owens serves on The Pregnancy Center of Dillon County Board.
Pastor Owens welcomed everyone to the Gala and introduced Rev. Jamie Arnette, pastor of First Baptist Church of Dillon. Rev. Arnette welcomed everyone and prayed for the event, and blessed the food.
The food was prepared by Mrs. Vicki Simerly and volunteers from First Baptist Church. The servers were members of the Dillon High School Anchor Club.
After a delicious meal, The Pregnancy Center of Dillon County Executive Director Sarah McCollum offered special music. She recognized those who help and support The Pregnancy Center of Dillon County. She offered special recognition to Ms. Bertha Rogers who is the “heartbeat of the center” that was started in 2015. She thanked the Lord.
McCollum informed every one of the upcoming “Baby Bottle Campaign.”
She informed everyone that the Pregnancy Center had 118 clients with 85% of those active in The Pregnancy Center.
The Pregnancy Center has given 5,400 diapers and wipes since 2025. The Center offers an in-house daycare for the clients.
Executive Director McCollum expressed special thanks to the Dillon High School Anchor Club who raised money for The Pregnancy Center. That money will feed a lot of babies.
The Pregnancy Center of Dillon had 10 babies born in 2025, and that 2 other babies were lost.
McCollum closed her remarks with a religious song.
The Master of Ceremonies, Pastor David Owens, introduced special guests and expressed thanks for all that they have done and continue to do for The Pregnancy Center of Dillon County. Rev. Jamie Arnette and First Baptist Church were first on the list followed by special guest speaker, Dr. Robert Jackson. Others included Kathryn Barnhill from Lifeline Christian Adoptions. All pastors in attendance were recognized and asked to stand. All political leaders were recognized, including the Mayor of Dillon, Tally McColl. Current and past board members of The Pregnancy Center of Dillon were recognized. Special recognition was given to all of The Pregnancy Center volunteers who do so much. Vicki Simerly and her volunteer kitchen staff and the servers from Dillon High School were recognized.
Master of Ceremonies Pastor David Owens introduced the client videos that were enjoyed by all in attendance.
Sarah McCollum, The Pregnancy Center Executive Director, shared the mission and vision for The Pregnancy Center.
Pastor David Owens, the Master of Ceremonies, introduced the keynote speaker, Dr. Robert Jackson.
Dr. Robert Jackson was born in Manning and moved to Spartanburg after receiving his doctor’s degree. He is married to Carlotta Jackson. They have 9 children and 21 grandchildren. Mrs. Jackson is a nurse, homeschool educator, writer, and speaker.
Dr. Robert Jackson is known for his extensive experience, patient-centered approach, and involvement in community and faith-based initiatives, including authoring books and hosting a podcast. He is a thorough, compassionate, and a good listener. He is a renowned speaker as was evidenced by all in attendance at The Pregnancy Center of Dillon Gala. There was probably not a dry eye in the audience. Those not present really missed a great speaker.
After Dr. Jackson’s speech, The Dillon Pregnancy Center presented the fundraising goals, and guests filled out pledge cards.
The Gala concluded with a prayer.
The Pregnancy Center of Dillon County is located at 300 North Fourth Avenue, Dillon, S.C.
PHOTO GALLERY
Photos by Johnnie Daniels/The Dillon County News, LLC
