Tamara’s destiny is being altered by a “Friend”

Like all of the children selected to enroll in the Friends of the Children program, Tamara was determined to be one of the most “at-risk” children in her kindergarten classroom. Through an extensive six-week selection process, FoC seeks out New York City area children who are most vulnerable to school failure, juvenile delinquency, and teen pregnancy. In Tamara’s case, she was socially excluded and showed no coping skills. She was also living with her grandma, as her father was absent and her mother was in-and-out of her life and often in trouble with the law.

Friends of the Children NY has made a commitment to Tamara for 12 years. They have matched her with a carefully screened, paid professional Youth Advocate, called a “Friend.”  The Friend spends four hours with her at least twice a week both in and outside of the school setting. These outings expose Tamara to the enriching opportunities that New York City has to offer and help her with much-needed socialization skills.

Tamara is now nine years old and has been enrolled in the FoC program for over four years. Those around her have witnessed her slowly come out of her shell and become more confident in speaking up. FoC has also helped place her into a higher performing school, where she is receiving individual attention that she has craved. In addition to the time with her Friend, an FoC Social Worker helps to enroll Tamara in other afterschool programs that match her interests and skills.

There is no doubt that Tamara has a bright future ahead of her! Thanks to donations like yours, she has been given a chance to succeed instead of falling through the cracks like so many other children in her community. Her life has been redefined by the love and devotion of a Friend and your generosity.