My Nonprofit Reviews

DonC
Review for Friends of the Children-Portland, Portland, OR, USA
It is easy for me to see why Friends of the Children has been recognized as a model organization in the field of childhood development.
My own background helps me recognize the challenges that result from a childhood with an unhealthy or unwholesome family environment. My observations have shown to me the importance of positive intervention and continuous support for such a child, starting at an early age.
The success of the Friends of the Children approach is readily seen in the children presently in the program as well as graduates who are grown and are achieving success as adults.
The keys appear to be these:
1st - A comprehensive method of operation, evolving over time, resulting in an outstanding record.
2nd - A staff and mentors (Friends) with a single-minded obsession to make it work.
3rd - The support of the community. Educators, schools and colleges, committee members, donors, volunteers and the business community have all joined in to assist FOTC in the effort.
4th - The love for all children as exemplified by the efforts of the entire organization.
My choice has been to make Friends of the Children the very core of my giving. It makes me proud to do so.
Donald W. Carlson - (retired from business)
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
As a multi-year donor and volunteer I've witnessed the growth and change in many of the children in the program. One young lady we met as a 6th grader has become an assured young woman who is finishing her second year of college on a scholarship. Meeting the mentors and seeing their dedication is a profound experience.
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
This model is so proficient in achieving the record of success that I can only hope that many other areas in our country can join the effort by starting a Friends of the Children organization in their communities.