At the start of the 2025–2026 school year, Aria* and Alejandra* faced a big change. They had to move schools because of shifts in their family lives. Their parents worried that the transition might mean losing the support their children rely on most, their Mentors. We assured them that their Friends would be there every step of the way, supporting them through this new chapter.

Before school started, we connected with the school district, principals, and first-grade teachers at Harry Truman Elementary and JFK Elementary, the girls' new schools. When the mentors were welcomed into the classrooms, it made the transition feel a little more familiar for Aria and Alejandra. Together with their families, we worked out transportation and after-school plans and connected them with the resources they needed to settle in smoothly.

On the first day, mentors Ms. Bella and Ms. Belinda were there alongside the girls, helping calm nerves and build confidence in an unfamiliar environment. They shared photos and updates with the parents and provided extra support to the whole family during this period of change.

We’re proud to continue offering consistent care and guidance for our families, including building relationships with new schools and demonstrating that our 12+ year commitment to youth remains strong, no matter what.

*Names changed for privacy