HISTORY

In the summer of 1982, two mothers, Chris Moon and Marilyn Koenig, who had each experienced the suicide death of a teenage son, met at a meeting in Sacramento, CA. Their connection was immediate and their feeling of compassion for each other spurred them on to consider helping others who were also grieving. 

Since 1983, many survivors, board members and other volunteers have developed principles, programs and services which have created a strong, vibrant, sustainable organization. 

Friends for Survival is not just a support group, but a “suicide bereavement support program.”  A program that offers a variety of services on a long-term basis to meet the complicated needs of families.  Many families will receive a newsletter for years, not because they are stuck in their grief, but because the newsletter continues to give them help and support.