FRIENDS, Inc.

Overview

FRIENDS, Inc. is a multifaceted nonprofit organization dedicated to providing trauma-informed services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The organization has been serving Washington County since 1978, focusing on a mission to break the cycle of domestic and sexual violence through shelter, support services, and education.

Mission and Vision

• Mission: The organization aims to break the cycle of domestic and sexual violence by providing shelter, support services, and education to empower individuals towards a non-violent and independent life.
• Vision: FRIENDS, Inc. envisions a community where every individual lives free from the threat of domestic and sexual violence, where people are educated and empowered to support survivors, and where healthy, respectful relationships are the norm.

Core Values

The core values of FRIENDS, Inc. are centered around the acronym of its name, standing for:

• Fairness
• Respect
• Integrity
• Empathy
• Non-judgmental
• Dependability
• Security

Services

The organization uses a trauma-informed approach to provide victim-centered services and programming. These services support individuals and families in living a non-violent and independent life beyond their involvement with the organization.

Funding

FRIENDS, Inc. operates thanks to a variety of funding sources, including federal and state government grants, support from United Way organizations, and private foundations. The organization undergoes an annual independent audit to ensure accountability to its funders and stakeholders.

Financial Structure

As a 501(c)(3) organization, donations to FRIENDS, Inc. are tax-deductible. The organization's financial operations are transparent and regularly reported through required tax filings.

Impact

By providing comprehensive support services and advocating for a violence-free community, FRIENDS, Inc. plays a vital role in promoting the well-being and safety of individuals affected by domestic and sexual violence in Washington County and beyond.