Friend Village was founded in 2018, beginning as a single group home with a simple but powerful vision: to create a nurturing, family-like environment where individuals with special needs could feel safe, respected, and truly at home. What started as one home built on love and compassion has grown into a trusted organization offering a range of community-based and residential services designed to meet the evolving needs of those we serve.

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The heart behind Friend Village is deeply personal. As the founder, the journey began with a passion for serving individuals with special needs and recognizing a gap in care that truly felt like home—not just a placement, but a place where individuals are valued, understood, and empowered. Too often, care can feel transactional. Friend Village was created to be different—to be intentional, relational, and rooted in genuine compassion.

That personal “why” continues to shape everything we do. It drives our commitment to person-centered care, ensuring that each individual’s unique goals, strengths, and preferences are respected and prioritized. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach—we believe in meeting people where they are and helping them grow into who they are meant to be.

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-Luv T. Friend