Susan Fandel has been elected to a three-year term and will join Freedom House’s board of directors.
According to a news release issued by Freedom House, Fandel “brings a wealth of experience and a passionate commitment to domestic and sexual violence prevention and support.”
Fandel retired from a 40-year career as a human resources executive. She started at Freedom House as a volunteer and continues to provide direct service to clients and their children.
“We are thrilled to welcome Susan to our Board of Directors,” said Freedom House CEO Michael Zerneck. “Her extensive experience and dedication to supporting survivors of abuse will be invaluable as we continue to expand our services and reach more individuals in need.”
Diana Whitney, board president, echoed these sentiments.
“Susan’s long history of volunteering for the agency will be a great addition to Freedom House. As an HR professional, she brings a wealth of experience into her new role.”
Fandel expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for joining the board.
“It is disheartening to hear of the prevalence of domestic violence in our own backyard. I want to support Freedom House in whatever manner I can to help bring change.”
Fandel’s election comes at a pivotal time for Freedom House as it continues to address the growing needs of domestic and sexual violence victims in Illinois. Fandel’s leadership and experience are expected to strengthen the organization’s efforts in critical areas.
Freedom House, a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation, is the domestic and sexual violence agency serving Bureau, Henry, Marshall, Putnam, and Stark counties in Illinois. Headquartered in Princeton, with satellite offices in Geneseo, Kewanee, Cambridge, and Lacon. Freedom House employs compassionate and skilled professionals to provide free, confidential, quality services to victims of abuse and their families.
Services include a 24-hour crisis hotline (800-474-6031), emergency shelter, medical and legal advocacy, adult and child counseling, awareness and prevention education, and training for volunteers and professionals.
In the past year, Freedom House staff provided needed services to more than 800 victims (and their families) of domestic violence and sexual assault.
For more information about Freedom House services or to donate, call (815) 872-0087; visit the website freedomhouseillinois.org, and find them on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
