Though the TLC Community Center’s 20th anniversary was technically last week, director Angie Odom said they are planning a celebration for the middle of next month.

“We are encouraging people to help celebrate our 20 by bringing 20,” Odom said.

This could be anything, she said, from 20 pennies to 20 articles of clothing. Any and all donations they collect between now and the celebration on Saturday, March 14 represents the growth the center has seen since its inception.

Originally Abortion Alternatives and Women’s Center, the TLC has grown to help dozens of young mothers and their families for two decades.

“I feel very humble and grateful,” Odom said. “When I close my eyes, I see the faces of so many people we have helped.”

Located on 145 Judge Don Lewis Blvd, the TLC is looking to use the holiday to reflect on its journey, both the good times and the bad.

“We had possums in our first building,” she said. “I would not change a thing.”

She said the TLC’s success showcases the good they have done as an organization.

“It proves God can take the ordinary person and do amazing things,” Odom said.

For the next 20 years, Odom said she wants the center to take an active role in creating change, rather than just providing a resource.

“We have to be willing to step up,” she said. “More and more, we have got to stand up to protect children.”

This does not end at telling parents to not abort, she said, but rather extends into providing resources so these families can actually provide for themselves.

“If no one else is going to do it, […] these children will be sitting in an empty house,” she said.

This activism, she said will in part come through expanding their food service ministries, as well as educating and training TLC staff and volunteers on how to handle families experiencing crisis, whether it is drugs or otherwise.

She said the center’s greatest success is the lives it has helped save.

“These children are alive today,” Odom said. “We have been able to help these moms.”

The event itself will run from 4 to 6 p.m. at the TLC on March 14. Former children who were adopted through the center’s efforts are encouraged to attend and share their experiences if they are willing. Odom said they will accept donations before, during, and a little bit after the celebration itself.