Elder abuse is a critical public health issue. Survivors report higher rates of depression and are three times more likely to die prematurely. Elders often withdraw from social interactions, and many blame themselves, which results in shame and silence and magnifies these effects. They also have higher rates of hospitalization and institutionalization, at an estimated annual cost to our nation’s healthcare system of $5.3 billion.
We provide training for organizations.
A national survey by the Corporate Alliance to End Partner Violence found that 64% of victims and survivors said relationship abuse affected their ability to work, costing U.S. companies more than $8.3 billion each year. That single data point reveals just how deeply domestic and relationship abuse intersects with the workplace. Workplace productivity is directly impacted. Employers have both a practical and moral imperative to understand this issue because employees are more likely to seek help at work and a supportive workplace improves retention.
Children who experience or witness abuse often face challenges with attendance, behavior, and academic performance. These struggles don’t remain behind closed doors—they show up in classrooms, childcare centers, and eventually ripple into communities and workplaces. Because caregivers and educators are mandated reporters, they play a vital role in recognizing early signs of abuse. Foster Friend Foundation partners with mandated reporters to identify emerging trends, raise awareness, and collaborate on strategies to prevent abuse and influence long‑term societal outcomes.
Foster Friend Foundation delivers abuse‑awareness training and support for organizations addressing bullying and cyberbullying, helping strengthen caregivers, staff, and foster families in their efforts to support survivors. We equip teams and communities with the tools and knowledge they need to “Be a Friend” by standing with victims of abuse and helping prevent further harm.
Across many U.S. cities, large‑scale protests and demonstrations have emerged in response to perceived misconduct and excessive force by law enforcement. For organizations working within these environments, recognizing the dynamics between the public and police is critical to supporting safety, communication, and trust—especially for community members with disabilities.
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