Mandolin Foundation: A Safe Haven for Women in Recovery
In 2020, the Mandolin Foundation was founded by Paula Jolly as a tribute to her daughter, Amanda. What began as a vision for support has evolved into a critical resource for women and children facing substance abuse and mental health challenges. Under this umbrella, Amanda’s House opened its doors in March 2022, providing transitional living for women and their families seeking stability, recovery, and a fresh start.
Located in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Amanda’s House fills a vital gap by offering one of the only sober living environments in the area that allows mothers to stay with their children. Many of the residents arrive with nowhere else to turn – coming out of incarceration, treatment programs, or unsafe home environments. Here, they find not only shelter but also life skills training, mentorship, and a supportive community to help them rebuild their lives.
A Lifeline for Women and Children
Amanda’s House provides more than just a roof over its residents’ heads – it fosters growth, responsibility, and self-sufficiency. Many women entering the home have never had stable role models or learned basic skills like budgeting, maintaining a job, or setting healthy boundaries. Through structured support, they begin to heal and build a future for themselves and their children.
In 2024, Amanda’s House also launched Celebrating Families! It is a 16-week program designed to break the cycle of addiction and abuse. This initiative equips parents and children with coping skills, educates them on healthy behaviors, and fosters stronger family bonds – offering hope for a brighter, more stable future.
The impact of Amanda’s House is best told through the voices of those it has helped:
- “I prayed and hoped to get into Amanda’s House because it was the only place that allowed me to keep my children. I was able to start slowly, focus on my recovery, and create a stable environment for my kids. I am not sure I would have made it this far without this home.” – Resident
- “Returning to my hometown after treatment was terrifying because my triggers were everywhere. Amanda’s House gave me the guidance, security, and structure I needed to stay sober and start over.” – Resident
- “Thanks to Amanda’s House, I have reunited with my children and even had my third child while in recovery. I could not have gotten this far without the love, patience, and support this home has given me.” – Resident Liaison
The Women’s Fund Impact
As a relatively new organization, Amanda’s House faced financial uncertainty in its early years. The Women’s Fund of Greater Green Bay played a role in helping the foundation sustain its mission and expand its impact.
Through its grant funding, the Women’s Fund provided the resources Amanda’s House needed to cover operating expenses, purchase essential supplies, and continue offering a safe space for women and children. Without this support, Amanda’s House might not have been able to remain open long enough to secure additional funding sources.
Looking Ahead
Amanda’s House has already changed dozens of lives, but the need for transitional housing and recovery support continues to grow. With ongoing community support and partnerships like the one with the Women’s Fund, the Mandolin Foundation will continue to provide a safe space, a second chance, and a new beginning for women determined to rebuild their lives.
