Friends of the Children – Portland has been successful in breaking the cycles of generational poverty for more than thirty years. We do this through long-term, professional mentoring. Each youth we serve receives high-quality, individualized mentoring from a full-time, salaried, professional mentor – called a Friend, for 12+ years, no matter what. The positive impact of our work is made possible because of your support.

 

Our model was founded on research showing that the single most important factor in overcoming childhood adversity is a long-term, nurturing relationship with a consistent and caring adult. Research over the past three decades continues to affirm how much these relationships matter.

A study conducted by the Harvard Business School Association of Oregon found that for every $1 invested in Friends of the Children, the community benefits over $7 in saved social costs.

Event proceeds and donations are unrestricted and support our general operations, programs, and services, so we can continue to serve our youth,

#NoMatterWhat.