Meet Rich

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 treatment, I entered the program where I was able to find housing and access to support services.

Unfortunately, things got worse before they got better. Recovery is like any other part of life, there are hills and valleys, but thanks to Friends of the Family's low barrier, people first support I was able to survive those setbacks. As soon as I admitted what I was doing wasn’t working, everything changed. Over time and through many false starts, my life began to rebuild itself piece by piece. 

With the help of good people around me, I found purpose in community, joy in service, and pride in connection through storytelling. I threw myself into service work, volunteering for several organizations in the state. I reignited my creative spark through my work at the Cedar Valley Makerspace, where I found a love for 3D printing, digital design and marketing. I joined the board there and gained experience in non-profit communications and operations. I also became involved with the local food ecosystem, working on small, family-owned farms in the area, and serving on the board of the Rooted Carrot Food Co-Op.

A chance encounter with my former advocate at FOF led me to reconnecting with the organization. When this position became available, I applied immediately. The opportunity to do what I love for an organization with a mission I believe in is a profound joy in my life today. Friends of the Family's low barrier approach to housing support not only saved my life, it gave me a new one.