Eva Moore grew up in a household she refers to as “dysfunctional,” where emotional and physical beatings were routine. Her sister coped with the pain by overeating and later became obese. Eva turned to drugs and alcohol instead, starting herself on a long downward spiral that continued well into adulthood.

But today, Eva is the founder of the Akron-based nonprofit Freedom House for Women and is using her experiences to help other women in the same situation.

“When owners drop off their dogs during the day or for overnight boarding, they leave knowing their pets are in good hands. At the same time, they are supporting the development of jobs for people with disabilities.”