The Friends is a not-for-profit organization formed in 1987 to support and assist in the charitable and educational activities of the Iowa Commission on the Status of Women (ICSW).  Established by the Iowa Legislature in 1972, ICSW is a commission which serves as an advocate and a voice for equality and opportunity for Iowa women.

Through private, tax-deductible donations, the FRIENDS enhances the lives of women in Iowa by expanding the work already in progress by the Commission and supporting new efforts. There is no set membership fee - a donation in any amount makes you a "Friend".