On the Saturday evening before Mother’s Day, the Pregnancy Care Center of Richmond Hill hosted its inaugural fundraiser, City Nights at the City Center, where photographer Megan Myrick unveiled The Love and Legacy Project.

About 80 people gathered at the City Center to support the Pregnancy Care Center’s mission while enjoying music by John Russell, city-themed food and a free photo booth.

Myrick’s new non-profit initiative will work in tandem with the Pregnancy Care Center to support mothers and children.

Its mission is to provide help and hope to those who are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy. Services offered by the organization, including information about prenatal development, parenting and adoption, are free and confidential.

"As we enjoy Mother’s Day weekend it is important to remember our organization is here to care for mothers and their children by providing them with the necessary information, support and guidance needed during what can be an overwhelming time in a woman’s life," center Executive Director Monica Easter said. "Our organization would not be able to remain and develop as a place of comfort and aid without the support of our community and we are grateful to have the support of faithful individuals, churches and organizations…"

Myrick said she developed the idea of The Love and Legacy Project after God called to her. The project offers complimentary photo sessions to new mothers facing medical or socioeconomic hardship. The aim is to celebrate the bond of motherhood. The sessions include the use of the studio’s wardrobe and props, and participants receive 10 heirloom-quality prints to preserve the beginning of their child’s story.

"I believe we are not born merely to exist," Myrick said. "We are here to celebrate and glorify God, the gifts he has bestowed upon us, and to leave this place a little better than we found it," Myrick said.

Throughout the evening raffles awarded many gift certificates to local businesses, with proceeds benefitting the Pregnancy Care Center. A live auction included a weekend at the Westin package, a downtown getaway package, $500 credit for a Myrick photo session, a Southern Steamer donated by the Randy Bocook Team, dinner for four at the City Center, a Royal Oak car detail, a Savannah Bananas basket including five tickets to their sold-out season opener, and a Kendra Scott jewelry set.

Besides the City Center and Myrick, the Pregnancy Care Center acknowledged the following sponsors:

• Lesley Francis Public Relations

• Amy Nolan, auctioneer

• Kimberly McHugh Photography

• The D. Russett Co.

• New Life Church

• Matthew Poore Leadership Group

• Abiding Love Adoptions

• Two Chicks and a Trunk

• Mack and Sandra Hagin

• Don Durrant

For more information about the Pregnancy Care Center, visit www.pregnancycarerh.org. For more about The Love and Legacy Project, visit www.loveandlegacyproject.com.