Foreign Affairs Support Network
Building Resilience and Connection for Foreign Affairs Professionals
ABOUT US
The Foreign Affairs Support Network (FASN) is a peer-led community dedicated to fostering resilience, connection, and well-being among U.S. foreign affairs professionals, their families, and partners. We understand the unique challenges of international service—from cultural transitions and family separation to career pressures and repatriation stress. Our mission is to provide understanding, connection, and practical support to those navigating these complexities.
Through confidential peer support, specialized training, and comprehensive resource referrals, FASN helps reduce isolation and strengthens community bonds within the foreign affairs community. We believe that peer-to-peer connection is powerful, and that professionals who have lived these experiences can offer invaluable guidance and empathy. By creating safe spaces for dialogue and sharing, we empower individuals and families to build resilience and thrive throughout their international service journey.
How to Get Support
If you’re looking for peer support, we’re here to connect you with someone who understands.
1. Reach Out
Fill out our Intake Form or email support@fasnetwork.org to tell us more about what’s going on, and our Peer Support Coordinator will get in touch within 48 hours.
If you have a serious emergency, please call 988 in the United States or contact your RSO or MED unit overseas.
2. Connect with Our Coordinator
Our Peer Support Coordinator will follow up to learn more about:
- Where you’re located
- The general nature of what you’re navigating
- Your preferred method of communication
3. Get Matched
Based on your needs, we’ll match you with a trained peer supporter who is best suited to support you.
4. Begin Your Peer Support
You and your peer supporter will connect and decide together what works best—just like the start of a mentorship relationship.
How to Get Involved as a Peer Supporter
Becoming a peer supporter is simple, free, and designed to support you every step of the way.
1. Apply
Complete our short application to get started or email volunteer@fasnetwork.org to learn more.
2. Get Your Training Instructions
Our Volunteer Coordinator will contact you with details on how to begin your training through the Lyda Hill Institute.
3. Complete the Training
Take the self-paced, online course and submit your certificate once finished.
4. Complete Onboarding
Sign an ethics and confidentiality agreement and attend a brief orientation.
5. Get Registered
You’ll be officially registered with FASN as a trained peer supporter.
Our Services
Confidential Peer Support
Connect with trained peer supporters who understand the unique challenges of foreign affairs work. Our confidential peer support program provides emotional support, practical advice, and a safe space to share experiences with others who have walked similar paths.
Training and Workshops
Develop resilience and coping skills through our specialized training programs designed for foreign affairs professionals and their families. Topics include managing cultural transitions, maintaining family connections across distances, and navigating repatriation challenges.
Resource Referrals and Community Connection
Access a comprehensive network of vetted resources, mental health services, and community organizations tailored to the needs of foreign affairs professionals. We connect you with the right support services and foster meaningful connections within our peer community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is peer support?
Peer support is a connection between individuals who share similar lived experiences. It offers a safe, understanding space to talk, listen, and support one another—without judgment.
Who can request support?
FASN is open to all foreign affairs professionals including State Department employees (foreign service, civil service, contractors), USAID, Foreign Agricultural Service, Foreign Commercial Service, USAGM, and their families. We are unable to provide services to anyone under the age of 18.
Is this service confidential?
Yes. All peer supporters agree to an ethics and confidentiality agreement to ensure your privacy and trust are protected.
Is there a cost to receive support?
No. Peer support is completely free.
What kind of support can I expect?
You can expect a supportive, non-judgmental space to talk through challenges, share experiences, and feel heard. This is not professional counseling, but rather peer-based connection and support.
How is a peer supporter different from a therapist?
Peer supporters are trained individuals with lived experience, not licensed mental health professionals. They offer understanding, encouragement, and shared perspective—not clinical advice or treatment.
Can I choose how I communicate?
Yes. We do our best to match you with a supporter based on your preferences, including communication style (email, phone, virtual, etc.).
What if I need more support than peer support can provide?
If your needs go beyond peer support, we can help point you toward additional resources or professional services.
How do I become a peer supporter?
Visit our “How to Get Involved as a Peer Supporter” section to learn about the application, training, and onboarding process.
Board of Directors
Stephanie Straface, Executive Director
Walter Quintanilla, Managing Director
Carrie Muntean, Safety Lead
Cynthia Cook, Peer Support Coordinator
Support Our Work
We are a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and our work is made possible through the generosity of our community.
Your support helps us provide free peer support services, training, and ongoing resources to individuals around the world. Every contribution—no matter the size—directly strengthens our ability to connect people, build community, and ensure no one has to navigate these experiences alone.
We gratefully welcome donations and appreciate your partnership in sustaining this work.