One hospital visit—and one woman’s fear of being left alone—changed everything.
In the very first episode of Learning for Life, Friends for Life founder and executive director Inez Russell takes us back to where it all began.
From starting Friends for Life in 1989 to responding to new needs, developing programs, expanding across Texas, and receiving national recognition, Inez shares the stories, challenges, people, and defining moments that shaped the organization along the way.
Join us as we look back at more than three decades of growth and discover how one idea became a mission that continues to help seniors and people with disabilities live as independently as possible.
It’s a story about faith, compassion, listening, and the belief that everyone deserves dignity, connection, and a friend.
❤️ LEARN MORE
https://friendsforlife.org/
❤️ SUPPORT THE MISSION
https://secure.qgiv.com/for/friendsfo...
🙌 BECOME A VOLUNTEER
https://volunteer.bloomerang.co/JE/qh...
📬 CONTACT FRIENDS FOR LIFE
https://friendsforlife.org/contact-us/
CHAPTERS
00:00 Welcome to Learning for Life
00:28 The moment that started Friends for Life
02:16 Beginning in a 10-by-10 office
06:18 Expanding into guardianship
08:08 Why money management became essential
10:00 Receiving national recognition
12:35 Expanding beyond Waco
15:23 Saving an adult day-care program
19:56 Creating a welcoming, home-like environment
21:45 Finding a permanent home
25:49 Expanding services across Texas
28:19 Protecting the mission and core values
29:52 Turning unmet needs into new programs
31:20 Life-skills training and independence
32:55 Lifelines, isolation, and the pandemic
34:37 Teaching adults with disabilities to read
36:43 Supporting children and families
38:39 Looking back at decades of growth
40:06 What keeps Inez committed
41:43 Making sure people know they have a friend
42:54 Employment readiness and future housing
45:42 One lesson worth passing on
46:36 Closing
FOLLOW FRIENDS FOR LIFE
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/ fflwaco
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/ fflwaco
YouTube:
/ @fflwaco
LinkedIn:
/ friends-for-life-waco
#FriendsForLife #LearningForLife #InezRussell #NonprofitPodcast #SeniorServices #DisabilityInclusion #CommunityImpact
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