Volunteers began training in June of 1998, and Friends For Hope was officially organized August 31, 1998, as a result of community concerns regarding the increase of domestic violence against women.  Concerns were that women living in this rural and isolated community are especially vulnerable to violence because of our geographical isolation, the economic decline in the oil industry, the shortages of resources and services, and the distance between Big Lake, Reagan County, and the nearest metropolitan community, which is 70 miles away.

Since Friends For Hope was established, there has been an increase in the reported domestic violence cases as well as sexual assault and child abuse cases.  Sheriff Kirk Pullig stated that over 85% of their child abuse cases are reported through Friends For Hope.

Friends For Hope began through the grassroots efforts of five local women.  The organization has seen many changes over the years with growth in the services being offered.  As the organization's mission was carried out, it became obvious that there was much work to be done.  It was apparent that it would be necessary to obtain office space and hire staff to maintain the level of service needed for victims.

In 1999, the current Friends For Hope office officially opened with only one part-time staff.  As the years have passed, the office staff has increased to four full-time positions, one part-time positions and numerous volunteers to help carry out the mission and projects of the organization.

The current staff includes an Executive Director, Volunteer Coordinator, Education Coordinator,  Child/Youth Educator, Case Manager/Advocate,  and an Office Assistant/Advocate in addition to a volunteer Financial Officer/Grant Manager.

In May of  2003, Friends For Hope felt it would be in the interest of the organization to form a community-based Board of Directors.  This would help the population of Reagan County understand that the organization was accountable to a governing body.  Having a diverse group of individuals in Reagan County serving on the board brought many different talents, skills, interests, and personalities together to ensure the success of the organization.

In the fall of 2006 Friends For Hope began looking into ways to expand their services to to other rural communities in the surrounding areas.  They are now providing additional services.  Due to an increased need for shelter services it was the decision of the board after years of discussing it to launch a Captial Fund Campaign to raise money to build a new facility.  The Reagan Resource Center will house the Friends For Hope office space.  The resources offered here will benefit the citizens of Reagan County as well as the surrounding area.