Stronger Families. Stronger Communities.
Estrangement is tearing families apart, and the systems meant to help are failing them. For the Family Foundation exists to change that — through research, education, and a community of volunteers who show up.
Who We Are
Our Purpose
Mission
To strengthen individuals, families, and communities through education, research, charitable initiatives, collaboration, and public awareness — advancing evidence-informed solutions and supporting programs that improve family well-being throughout the United States and internationally.
Looking Ahead
Vision
A world in which individuals and families have access to trusted education, meaningful resources, qualified professionals, and supportive communities that foster resilience, connection, and hope across generations.
What We Do
Five initiatives, one purpose.
Ethical Standards in Mental Health (ESMH) Coalition
Advancing ethical, evidence-informed mental health standards through research, education, professional collaboration, and public awareness."Elevating standards. Improving outcomes."
Parent Support
Providing resources, education, and community to support parents and caregivers through challenges, strengthen relationships, and promote family well-being."Empowering parents. Strengthening families."
Student Education
Investing in students through scholarships, curriculum development, and programs that build knowledge, skills, character, and a commitment to strong families."Educating today. Leading tomorrow."
Media & Messaging
Promoting positive narratives about families and mental well-being through strategic communication, media partnerships, and public awareness campaigns."Changing the conversation. Inspiring action."
Events & Fundraising
Hosting and supporting events that raise awareness, build community, and generate resources to fuel initiatives that strengthen families and communities."Bringing people together. Creating impact."
Board of Directors
No single person owns this mission. The Foundation is governed by a dedicated Board of Directors committed to transparency, integrity, and responsible stewardship of every donation entrusted to us.
Katt Johnston
President
Katt Johnston is a Licensed Social Worker and mental health professional with more than 25 years of experience. With a master's degree and clinical training, she has focused her career on strengthening families, with particular attention to family estrangement. As President of For The Family Foundation and a founder of the ESMH Coalition, she helps lead efforts to support families through research, education, and ethical, evidence-informed practice.
Linda Nowlin
Executive Vice President
Linda Nowlin is a Founder of For The Family Foundation, dedicated to strengthening families through healing, education, and research on family relationships. She practiced law for nearly 20 years before turning her focus to health, wellness, and family advocacy. A Certified Health Coach, Certified Brain Health Professional, and licensed Realtor with over 20 years in the fitness industry, Linda brings together experts, advocates, and communities to support stronger, healthier family relationships.
Torie Waite
Executive Secretary
Torie Waite, LCSW, is the Executive Secretary of For The Family Foundation. Deeply family-oriented, she has dedicated much of her life to youth advocacy, leading committees for children and personally fostering youth and teens. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker in solo practice, she brings extensive mental health expertise to the board. Torie holds a bachelor's degree from Indiana Wesleyan University and a master's from the University of Nevada, Reno. She has been married over 40 years, with six children and 12 grandchildren.
Anita Kiger
Treasurer
With more than 30 years in financial planning, Anita brings a strong background in leadership, organization, and service, having held securities, life, and health insurance licenses. Beyond her career, she has spent years facilitating women's retreats and events focused on growth, connection, and empowerment, and is a Reiki Master committed to healing and resilience. The mother of five and grandmother of five, Anita is especially passionate about advocating for women navigating parental estrangement.
Richard Blake
Director
Dr. Richard L. Blake, BA (Hons), MSc, PhD is a British psychologist, researcher, and author specializing in breathwork, mental health, and family estrangement. His groundbreaking PhD research produced the first randomized controlled trial demonstrating the effectiveness of online Conscious Connected Breathwork for anxiety, published in the Journal of Affective Disorders. As Vice President of the Ethical Standards for Mental Health (ESMH) Coalition and Chair of its Research Committee, Dr. Blake is dedicated to advancing ethical, evidence-based mental health practices through research, education, and public engagement.
Featured
Current Initiatives
The Foundation is already at work — building collaborations, advancing research, and developing programs that strengthen families and communities.
Ethical Standards in Mental Health (ESMH) Coalition
Advancing ethical, evidence-informed mental health standards through research, education, and professional collaboration.
Research Collaborations
Actively collaborating with researchers at Emory University and Nova Southeastern University to advance evidence-informed work supporting families.
Conferences
Hosting "Understanding Estrangement: National Summit for Families and Professionals," March 1–2, 2027 at Emory University in Atlanta.
For the Family Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. EIN 42-3493704. Questions? Email us at [email protected].
The Foundation exists because too many families are navigating estrangement without trusted information, qualified support, or anyone who understands. Members fund that work and help carry it out.
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