Jordan’s Promise was founded by Asher and Zach Lutz in honor of their daughter who was born premature last year. Jordan was born at 26 weeks gestation, weighed just a little over 2 pounds, and spent 107 days at the Trinity Health NICU.

“While she was there, our family experienced immense challenges. There were a lot of things that were difficult during that time.We have a son who is 2 now, but he was 10 months old during that time. So there was a lot of overwhelming emotional and physical toll that the NICU took on us,” Asher Lutz said.

Asher Lutz was complimentary and grateful for the care her daughter received from the Trinity Health staff during that time but said the experience illustrated the dearth of resources for NICU families throughout the state. Lutz said the goal of Jordan’s Promise is to provide support for all NICU families throughout the state, regardless of gestational stage or diagnosis. The Easter Baskets contained diapers, an outfit, toys, a book, a baby blanket, a white noise machine and self care items for the parents.

“Just some things to make parents realize there is a sense of community, because sometimes it can feel very isolating and alone,” Lutz, “We just want to turn a hard experience into a positive experience.”

Jordan’s Promise will make quarterly disbursements, initially focusing on Minot with plans to expand throughout the state. Lutz estimated that, on average, North Dakota hospitals have around 70 premature babies in NICUs every month. Lutz said she is working on creating a social media presence to connect NICU families and organizing events and gatherings. As for Jordan herself, Lutz said her daughter is thriving and just turned a year old on Feb. 2.

“She’s our little miracle. She’s an adjusted 10 months old. She’s just learning how to stand on her own two feet. She’s very talkative and sassy. She’s probably the most content baby I’ve ever met,” Lutz said.