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In partnership with community organizations, schools, and the foster care system, we identify youth who could receive the most benefit from our long-term mentorship model. Mentors provide stability, consistency, and serve as a bridge to a full support system to youth for 12+ years to help youth advocate and succeed for themselves in their lives.
Meet the Most
Committed Youth Mentorship Program
Friends of the Children-Seattle pairs youth facing the toughest life obstacles in Seattle with a paid, professional full-time mentor from kindergarten through high school graduation—no matter what.
Long-term mentorship is how we impact true generational change for our Seattle community.
From Mentee to Mentor: Jaleah's Story of Generational Impact
Jaleah was paired with her mentor in 2005. She was supported to navigate the burden of poverty and homelessness her family of 5 faced throughout her childhood. Jaleah became inspired by the support she received to become that person for other children. Over 20 years later, she continues to connect with her mentor as Jaleah immerses in her career as an educator for children in special education.
20+ Years of Commitment to Bring More Smiles to The Community
Lwam was paired with her mentor at 5 years old. She was supported in growing up in SeaTac with her Eritrean roots and navigating a new, ever-changing city. A lot was difficult for Lwam, but with the added support of her mentor, she was able to navigate through it all to breakthrough into achieving her dream of going to college. Over 20 years later, she still connects with her mentor about her journey going to dental school at NYU and receiving her white coat.
Having a full-time mentor for 12+ years impacts more than just a child's life.
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COMMUNITY REPORT
90%
93%
98%
youth graduate from high school or obtain a GED
youth avoid the juvenile justice system
youth avoid early parenting
Research shows that for every $1 invested in Friends of the Children, the community benefits over $7 in saved social costs in the future.
(Harvard Business School Association of Oregon)
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