The Friendship Center Announces Executive Director Transition, Leadership Search

The Board of Directors will begin the search process to identify a successor for outgoing Executive Director Gina Boesdorfer.

(HELENA, Mont., May 20, 2026) –The Friendship Center’s Executive Director, Gina Boesdorfer, will depart the organization on June 19 to pursue a new professional opportunity after more than 10 years with the agency and nearly 20 years in the field overall.

Boesdorfer has served as Executive Director for the past five years, leading a period of significant organizational growth, stability, and community impact. During that time, the organization’s budget tripled, staff retention remained exceptionally strong, and partnerships across the community deepened. Today, most staff members have been with the organization for more than five years, with all newer positions representing strategic growth and expansion of services.

Under Boesdorfer’s leadership, The Friendship Center strengthened its role as a trusted community partner and active participant in multidisciplinary collaborations focused on long-term systems change and community response. This work includes participation in the Coordinated Community Response Cohort alongside the Sheriff’s Office and County Attorney’s Office, among many other collaborative initiatives aimed at building a safer and more responsive future for the community.

“Boesdorfer has led this organization with compassion, vision, and unwavering commitment to our mission,” said Katie Loveland, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Her leadership has positioned the agency for continued success with strong finances, a dedicated and experienced team, and meaningful partnerships throughout the community. While we will miss her daily leadership, we are deeply grateful for the lasting impact she has made.”

To ensure a smooth transition, current Development Director Kim Patterson will serve as Interim Executive Director while the Board of Directors conducts a search for the organization’s next leader. The board will begin the search process immediately.

Boesdorfer will remain involved during the transition period to support staff, leadership, and the board in ensuring continuity of operations and services.

“It has been an incredible privilege to serve this organization and this community,” said Boesdorfer. “I have deep love for this work and immense pride in what our team has

accomplished together over the years. The strength of this organization lies in its people, partnerships, and shared commitment to those we serve. While I am stepping into a new opportunity, I look forward to remaining connected to this mission in other ways, including volunteering and continuing to support the work however I can.”

The Friendship Center’s programs, services, and operations will continue without interruption throughout the leadership transition.

###

Visit thefriendshipcenter.org/employment to see Executive Director position description and instructions to apply for qualified candidates.

About The Friendship Center

Founded in 1971, The Friendship Center is the community resource for addressing and preventing domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking through advocacy, education, and outreach in Lewis and Clark, Broadwater, and Jefferson counties. Learn more at thefriendshipcenter.org.

Contact:

Kim Patterson, Development Director

406.442.6800

kim.p@thefriendshipcenter.org