About FREDLA

About Us

yesterday, today and tomorrow

Incorporated in 2013, the Family-Run Executive Director Leadership Association (FREDLA) is a 501(c) (3) national association of executive directors and leaders from family-run organizations (FROs) committed to all children, youth, and young adults with social, emotional, substance use, and multi-systems challenges, their families, and the agencies that serve them.

FREDLA was born of the dreams of 16 executive directors of family-run organizations who reflected the breadth and depth of the country.  The founding director of FREDLA laid a strong foundation for the organization to advance its mission.   The pictures from the past on this page show some of FREDLA’s  history under Jane Walker’s leadership.

FREDLA’s Purpose

FREDLA serves as the national representative and advocate for family-run organizations and their executive leadership.  We inform our members about current and emerging policy issues and coordinate opportunities for the lived experience of families to inform policy decisions in their own states, as well as nationally.  We develop tools to strengthen the work of family leaders to support families and sustain their organizations.

Projects, Grants and Funding

FREDLA is involved in a variety of projects and partnerships that support its mission and membership.  Visit our Areas of Focus to learn more about what we are doing today!

Working in partnership with young adult leaders

Recent Events

Millie & Pat with NTTAC at CMHI grantee meeting

Pat, Ramona White Plume & Shannon CrossBear at CMHI meeting

Millie, Shannon & Christopher Bellonci, M.D. at ACRC Conference 2023

Training respite providers with Federation of Families of Central Florida, Inc.