Who we are

A trusted support when life gets tough

Since we began in Cedar Rapids in 1970, we have focused on crisis prevention and intervention for people of all ages. Today, we support people across Iowa in crisis approximately 100,000 times per year. We are committed to positive youth development, suicide prevention, and helping build the foundation for stronger and healthier families and safer communities for everyone.

Welcome to Foundation 2 Crisis Services. We are dedicated to providing compassionate, confidential and accessible support for individuals and families facing life’s challenges across Iowa. Whether you’re navigating stress, anxiety, thoughts of suicide or other crises, our trained counselors are here to help 24/7. Our services area available at no cost.

We’re glad that you’re on our website. We encourage you to learn more about our services and connect with help. If you’re experiencing a crisis – or you’re concerned about someone you care about – remember that you’re not alone.

We’re a trusted support when life gets tough. All people. Any time. Every time.

To be a trusted support when life gets tough. All people. Any time. Every time.

To build resilience and improve quality of life by ensuring every Iowan has access to our lifesaving work in crisis prevention, intervention and response.

Origin of our name

Established in 1970 by an “anti-establishment” group of Coe College and Kennedy High School students, Foundation 2 intentionally positioned itself outside the mainstream, pulling inspiration from Isaac Asimov’s Foundation Trilogy series.

In the book series, the Second Foundation was established to address important social and psychological issues from behind the scenes, without mainstream culture or government constraints.

Early Foundation 2 Crisis Services staff and volunteers made this structure their model, often tackling mental health care needs that weren’t addressed by mainstream providers.

No longer an anti-establishment organization, Foundation 2 Crisis Services maintains our solid foundation as a premier provider of quality, innovative human services in the Cedar Rapids community.

Our Services

Crisis Services

Free, 24/7 crisis support for anyone experiencing a mental health or suicide-related situation or concern.

Youth Support

A variety of residential and community programs that support youth and young adults in crisis.

Training & Education

Community and workplace trainings and education opportunities to further suicide prevention efforts.