Meet Carla Biro, one of RETA's newest board members.
Carla works as the Director for Gr8t Beginnings of Elkhart County, an emerging Early Childhood Coalition program working to ensure the children of Elkhart have positive developmental experiences, strong and safe environments in which to play and grow, and support systems for their parents. Carla has been married for two years to her husband Mike. They have a blended family of six, five boys ages 12-22 and one girl age 10. She and her family attend Grace Community Church. Carla has a love for fitness and enjoys running. She also has an amazing story of God's grace, as she once walked in the shoes of some of the clients RETA serves.
In Carla's own words, "Nearly 25 years ago, I walked into the doors of RETA frightened and hopeless. My Islamic background failed to give me the hope I later learned came from only trusting in Jesus. I was 15 and pregnant. My mother was an addict but allowed the love she had in her heart for me to place me in what was known in 1994 as Sarah’s House. This was a home through RETA for teen moms. Here I received the first revelations of Christ’s unconditional love. The foundation of who I am today was laid during this season. I was surrounded by disciples that gave no judgment and loved me from the low starting point on my journey. Fast forward to today, RETA has continued to walk with me through a long journey of healing. I’ve not only benefited from the love of my house parents at Sarah’s House, I’ve also benefited from the deep healing allotted through the Forgiven and Set Free program offered by RETA."
Carla continued, “I would like to know that my story (my testimony) made a difference in the life of a teen mom. I want to know that a baby was saved by the usage of my work and/or my testimony. I want to give hope to teen moms that are contemplating completing school, abortion, or any other life-altering decisions that may come from an unplanned pregnancy.”
We are so grateful to have her onboard!