Fostering Stability Among Children: Friends of the Children Boston

Twenty years ago, GreenLight Fund made its first ever investment, welcoming Friends of the Children into the city. During that time, Boston was experiencing a rise in youth violence driven by a need for better resources for children experiencing adversity. Since then, Friends of the Children has stepped up to meet that challenge, offering 12 consecutive years of mentoring to at-risk children, known as Achievers, to build life skills, explore unique talents, and provide a stable outlet for children to turn to during times of uncertainty. Their approach has shown proven success among children, with Achievers performing better in school, accelerating to higher education or workforce opportunities, remaining free of interactions with the juvenile justice system, and fostering a sense of community. 

Between 2023-2024, 98% of youth are expected to progress to the next grade on time, with 75% of graduates applying to post-secondary opportunities. 

Jamari exemplifies the power of mentorship and community that Friends provides. He shared the following about his experience:

“I’ve been through a lot of trials and tribulations throughout my childhood. But one thing I will always be grateful for is the worst times of my life. Without trials and tribulations, I feel like I won’t be the man that I am today. Friends of the Children-Boston has helped me realize my worth, and no matter how big the obstacle, no matter how big the struggle, I can always prevail. So, the last thank you I want to give is to Friends-Boston for giving me hope, and for giving me the realization that I mean something. “

Jamari’s story reminds us of the importance of early intervention and sustained support throughout childhood. After three mentors and thirteen years in the Friends program, he is on his way to complete higher education at UMass Dartmouth and remains a testament to the power of mentorship in building brighter futures for the children of Boston.