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About Us

Friendly House was founded in 1951 and was the first residential program for women recovering from substance and alcohol abuse.

Our non-profit organization is supported by private donations, grants and fundraising efforts by the Board of Directors, alumni and special events such as our Annual Awards Luncheon and Comedy Fundraiser.

About Us

Friendly House was founded in 1951 and was the first residential program for women recovering from substance and alcohol abuse.

The organization is solely supported by private donations and grants, by the fundraising efforts of the Board of DirectorsGrateful Hearts (former residents of Friendly House), and special events such as our Annual Awards Luncheon and other events.

• Mission:

At Friendly House, our mission is to inspire and empower women of all gender experiences, on their journey to overcoming substance use disorders and mental health challenges. Our program offers a blend of clinical expertise, cultural wisdom and community support in an inclusive space. Our aim is to restore dignity and foster resilience providing the tools and support needed to heal trauma patterns that often serve as barriers to a sustainable recovery lifestyle.

• Vision:

We enhance recovery outcomes for all women regardless of race, age, gender identity, or economic background.

• Core Values:

TRANSPARENCY

We believe in open and honest communication. We do not withhold or hide information. We are transparent in our actions, decisions, and communications with both the people we work with and those we serve.

RESPECT

We accept people for who they are even when they’re different from us or we don’t agree with them. Respect in our relationships builds feelings of trust, safety and well-being. We treat each other with dignity and value the collective power of teamwork.

FREEDOM

Every individual has a voice. It is our job to hear it, nurture it and empower it. You have the right to be who you are. You are celebrated for your mind, thoughts and ideas. We believe your authentic self is your best self. We strive to create an environment that allows you to thrive.

COURAGE

We take a fearless inventory of ourselves and the work we do. We continually ask ourselves how we can improve what we are doing. We are unafraid to take risks, make mistakes and are fearless in our pursuit of recovery.

INTEGRITY

We do things the right way. We operate above board. We don’t take shortcuts and we don’t allow outside influences to get in the way of our moral compass.

INGENUITY

We think outside of the box, remain curious and are open to new concepts, ideas, creative ways to address substance use disorder treatment for women/non-binary individuals. We value education, lived experience and science.

COMMUNITY

We believe that together we are stronger. We practice unselfish love for others. We care deeply for each person that we encounter, each person that works for us and each person that walks through our doors. We whole heartedly care about the success of our clients and of our team.

In March of 1951

Bea Jorgensen opened Friendly House.
Bea wanted to create a home where women could feel safe, a home where they would be loved unconditionally while they learned to love themselves.

She started by going to the Los Angeles County Jail to visit women incarcerated there. At first she met resistance from the sheriff’s department, but gradually through persistence and demonstrated success, she won the department’s support. Bea raised money to support the house from friends in the community. Contributions were raised on a month-to-month basis – even day to day.

It was Bea’s constant desire and second dream come true to be able to leave Friendly House in the hands of someone who shared her love and dedication to its continuing efforts. That person would be Peggy Albrecht.

Peggy joined the staff of Friendly House in 1983 becoming Friendly House’s second Executive Director. Under Peggy’s loving guidance, Friendly House grew in stature, strength, and reputation from one location into two, each offering distinct levels of care, and we maintain both of these homes today with one being a licensed residential treatment facility and the other being a structured sober living environment.

Why Friendly House?

Take a closer look at what makes Friendly House so special.

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Why Friendly House?

Take a closer look at what makes Friendly House so special.

Follow us on:

    

Get in touch with a Friendly House Representative today:

CALL (213) 389-9964

or click here to reach us by email.
Get in touch with a Friendly House Representative today:

CALL
(213) 389-9964

or click here to reach us by email.

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Contact Us

Find the help you need today.

Admissions:
(213) 389-9964
Residential Treatment:
(213) 389-9964

347 South Normandie Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90020

Sober Living:
(213) 389-9964

Culver City Adjacent
Los Angeles, CA 90034

Licensed by the State Department of Health Care Services
License Number: 190890AN
Expiration Date: 6/30/2026

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