The
Wetter
Family
Foundation
who we are
As an organization, everything we do is guided by our desire to create lasting change in the lives of children and families who've experienced trauma.
To fulfill our mission, we rely on four core values that define our approach: Empowerment, Safety, Compassion and Justice. These values are not just words; they are the foundation of our work and the guiding principles behind every initiative, and partnership we build.
safety
Every person has the right to feel safe and protected in their home and community. That’s why we proudly partner with local service providers who specialize in delivering direct support to survivors of domestic abuse. Through these partnerships, we help facilitate critical services such as emergency housing, safety planning, and counseling. By working together with trusted organizations, we ensure that families have access to the immediate resources they need to find safety, begin healing without fear of physical or emotional harm.
compassion
Domestic abuse often leaves individuals feeling isolated and unseen. At The Wetter Family Foundation, we believe in treating every individual with compassion, understanding, and dignity. By creating spaces where survivors and their families feel validated and respected, we aim to reduce the stigma surrounding domestic abuse and encourage open, supportive dialogue. Through fostering trust and empathy within our community, we strive to build a culture where those seeking help are met with kindness and empathy rather than judgment.
empowerment
At the heart of our mission is a commitment to empowering children and families affected by domestic abuse. We believe in the power of resilience and the potential for growth despite enduring trauma. By promoting awareness, supporting prevention initiatives, and sponsoring critical services for victims, we hope to help individuals recognize their strength, self-worth, and ability to overcome adversity. Empowerment means more than just surviving- it’s about rebuilding with confidence, embracing new opportunities, and thriving in a future full of possibilities.
justice
Domestic abuse is not just an individual issue-it's a community problem that requires a collective response. Systemic change is essential to effectively address and prevent continued violence. Through proactive community engagement and the promotion of policies that protect vulnerable populations, we strive to raise awareness of the root causes of abuse and drive meaningful, sustainable change. By amplifying the voices of survivors and promoting a culture of empathy and accountability, we seek to challenge the barriers that perpetuate abuse and build a future where every family can live free from fear and violence.
Meet the founders
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Zach Wetter
Drawing from his own childhood experiences marked by domestic violence and parental substance abuse, Zach possesses a profound understanding of the lasting impact such environments can have on young lives. While his early struggles shaped his resilience, his service in the U.S. Navy further instilled in him a sense of duty to protect and defend those in need. Today, those same principles fuel his unwavering commitment to supporting children and families, particularly within military communities, battling the instability and trauma caused by domestic abuse. Motivated by a deep belief in the power of healing and hope, Zach is dedicated to ensuring that no child faces the darkness of abuse alone. Through his work, he seeks to honor his own journey of healing while inspiring others to join the fight against domestic abuse.
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Colleen Wetter
A survivor of domestic violence and narcissistic abuse, Colleen has transformed her personal pain into a powerful mission: to empower those victimized where they should feel safest—at home. After escaping a relationship characterized by verbal, emotional and physical abuse, she recognized the urgent need for resources and support dedicated to those navigating the complex aftermath of similar experiences. By sharing her story, Colleen hopes to inspire domestic abuse survivors to find their voices and reclaim their lives. As a Certified Sexual Assault Victim Advocate and a Court Appointed Special Advocate for children involved in abuse or neglect cases, Colleen seeks to create a compassionate community where survivors can find peace, understanding, support, and the courage to move forward.