How We Introduce Our Program to Parents and Guardians
Every relationship we build begins with honesty, care, and a genuine respect for the families we hope to partner with.
Before any child is ever observed or considered for our program, we make sure caregivers know exactly what is happening and why. Observation notices go home with students at participating schools, written in accessible language and covering our mission, our goals, and what being part of Friends of the Children actually looks like. Families receive contact information for our Program Director, Cecelia Paniagua, so they can reach out whenever they're ready.
When a child moves to final consideration, the process becomes more personal. The school reaches out first, and then Cecelia connects by phone to set up a meeting wherever the family feels most comfortable, whether that's at the school, a local library, or their own home. We work around family schedules. We come to them.
That first in-person conversation is one of our favorites. It's a real exchange where caregivers can ask every question they have, share their goals for their child, and wherever possible, meet the Professional Mentor who may soon become a steady presence in their child's life.
"We plan to be a part of the youth's life for 12+ years no matter what, so we want to make sure the family is as committed to us as we will be to them." — Cecelia Paniagua, Program Director
Sometimes a family decides this isn't the right fit, and that's okay. Some are already deeply connected to local resources and surrounded by strong support. Those conversations are never wasted. They help us understand the community we're part of and deepen the trust we're always working to build.
Introducing our program to families is about one thing. Letting them know they are seen, that their child is seen, and that we're ready to walk alongside them for as long as it takes, no matter what.