According to Filiaggi, the Friends R Family Foundation was created to honor his wife while raising awareness of mental health issues and improving access to care and resources. “With Friends R Family, we are striving to give mental health a personal face, removing the clinical and negative stereotypes to tear down the stigma faced by those who struggle with mental health,” says Filiaggi. Specifically, the group is focused on three main areas: research, community and awareness, and although in its infancy is finding its services are much needed.