Special Message from Angel: Our New Director of Programs:
Greetings!
I am excited to introduce myself to the SAFL family: I am Angel Pennyman, the new Director of Programs at Sidewalk Advocates for Life. I started praying on the sidewalk years ago and then felt called to lead local 40 Days for Life campaigns. Working now for the largest sidewalk outreach organization in the country is a wonderful next step in my pro-life journey.
I’ve always had a love for connecting with people, which helped me in my pursuit of an advanced degree in counseling and a bachelor’s degree in political science at Illinois State University. My time at ISU was an incredible experience for me, filled with both academic growth and personal development. I met amazing friends and professors who challenged and inspired me to reach my full potential. Whether attending campus events, studying in the library, or relaxing at a coffee shop, there was always something to do. I will always cherish the memories and lessons learned there.
But there is one thing that I wish I hadn’t encountered while on that campus … the Planned Parenthood, initially located just blocks from the student center. The abortion-giant’s presence created deep divisions within the community. While painted as a much-needed resource for students, it was instead a source of anguish, turmoil, and pain.
After joining the SAFL national team decades later, I heard the news that this facility is closing! It was music to my ears! For years, many have prayed, advocated, and worked tirelessly to provide compassionate alternatives to abortion, ensuring that women have access to real support, life-affirming resources, and a network of care that empowers them to choose life.
This closure is not just the end of a building’s operations, but a turning point toward a culture that upholds the dignity of preborn children and champions the efforts of pregnancy-help organizations instead of waving the false flag of hope offered by abortion.
I could not ask for a better gift of welcome as I begin my journey helping lead sidewalk teams across the country to support moms, save lives and eventually drive abortion out of their communities, just like in Bloomington. This victory is a testament to the power of perseverance and faith, reminding us that every effort to protect life makes a difference. The work is not over, but today, I hope you will join me in a prayer of thanksgiving for this moment of victory for my college town!
I look forward to connecting with and serving all of you as we move forward in our shared mission to bring real help and hope to every abortion-facility sidewalk.
For His Kingdom,
Angel Pennyman
Director of Programs
*Photo of Planned Parenthood Credit: wglt.org/local-news/2025-01-22/planned-parenthood-closing-four-health-centers-including-bloomington