Established in 1977, Partnership Against Domestic Violence (PADV) is the largest nonprofit domestic violence organization in Georgia.
Their 43 employees take an education-based approach to inform the public of the dynamics of intimate partner violence, promote healthy dating relationships, and offer safety and shelter to victims and their children as they begin the road to recovery.
We had the pleasure to sit down with Nancy Friauf, the current CEO of PADV, to learn more about this amazing nonprofit and chat about purpose.
Nancy, thanks so much for spending time with us. Thanks for telling us more about the amazing work that PADV does.
Our mission at PADV is to end the crime of intimate violence and to empower its victims. To do this, we run teen dating violence programs to educate youth about healthy relationships and are involved in legal advocacy regarding temporary protective orders, paperwork, and assistance.
We speak to the general public about our mission, offer programs for men, are involved with media education, and talk to employers on how they can create positive safe environments.
We also recently struck up a partnership with Gwinnett Medical Center to offer therapeutic services and counseling services to victims. PADV also operates two emergency shelters and a 24-hour crisis line.
In my role of CEO, my responsibilities include overseeing programming operations, finances, working with the board of directors and representing the agency internally and externally.
Congrats on this amazing list of efforts. Please tell us what inspired you to find your purpose.
I am a strong believer in people living safe, positive lives. I believe violence and abuse are inherently wrong and these beliefs guided me to my current position.
How has discovering your purpose benefited you?
Discovering my purpose allowed me to feel the work I am doing is meaningful. I have since had the opportunity to earn teaching experience, give as well as receive motherly advice, and network with all kinds of people. I have also been able to mentor staff which brings a sense of fulfillment to my life.
What are some challenges you have faced career or purpose wise? How did you overcome them?
My biggest challenge has been the emotional impact of making a mistake that had a negative impact on my staff or the organization. I have learned, however, that mistakes are bound to happen, and the best thing is to acknowledge the error and learn from it to move forward.
I have also struggled with the feeling of helplessness. Often times, there are so many things that I want to accomplish or things that can be done to benefit either the organization or the victims. Sometimes outside forces inhibit our progress, which is a frustrating reality. I have had to realize that I am just one person and to take pride in what I have been able to accomplish.
Who has supported you in this journey?
My family has been my biggest support system outside of the work environment. They have always stood behind me and helped me to achieve my current position.
What kind of advice do you have to share with people who are still searching for purpose?
My biggest advice would be to listen and pay attention to what speaks to you.
Think to yourself, “What is my passion? What do I enjoy doing? What are things I could see myself willing to do and grow in and develop through?” This in and of itself can be a process of trial and error. I would also advise people to not be afraid to take a step back and reevaluate. If something isn’t bringing you a sense of joy or fulfillment, trust your gut and try something else until the shoe fits.
Nancy, thanks again for your time and the work you do. We are grateful that you living your purpose makes the world a better place.