Human Stories, Lasting Impact

When you ask Jen what she does, she’ll give you a straightforward answer: she’s a victim support specialist. But spend even a few minutes hearing about her work, and it becomes clear that her role is anything but simple. Jen has been with Friends of the Family for nearly four years, walking alongside people in some of the most uncertain moments of their lives. She meets guests as they arrive in shelteroften after fleeing domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, or other

Hi, my name is Rich, and I’m the new Communications and Events Manager. I’m also a past program participant. My path here was a long and winding one. Just three years ago, a cycle of addiction had stripped away everything good in my life: a loving family, a promising career, and a sense of purpose. A moment of desperation and a forgiving family member led me to substance abuse treatment in Iowa, where I learned about Friends of the Family’s housing services. After completing