The Friendship Process
Requesting a Friend
Our friendship process begins with a completed Request for a Friend application. Once this application has been received, a Friends staff member will schedule a home visit with the child and their parent(s) or gaurdian(s). Since a child’s participation in our program is voluntary, they are asked to describe their interests, hobbies, expectations, and why they want an adult friend. The parent or guardian is also asked to complete the following forms:
· Family Intake (Demographic Survey)
· Evaluation Consent and Survey
· Parent/Guardian Policies & Expectations
· Medical Information
During the home visit, our staff is able to develop an understanding of the child’s personal interests and style as well as the family's preferences. A staff member is also available to answer any questions a parent may have. This process of interaction and observation enables us to make the best match possible for each child. We view each child and each volunteer as unique and therefore each match is carefully designed to ensure that safety, shared interests and mutual satisfaction are paramount. Once the home visit is complete, we consider the child for a potential match, based on the above criteria as well as the volunteer’s interests. If the child is placed on the waiting list, families are invited to attend Friends events so they can become familiar with staff members and also provide their child with exposure to community venues.
Becoming a Friend
Each volunteer goes through a rigorous screening process as well as intensive training prior to being matched. The volunteer screening process includes:
Step #1 – Application
· Volunteer completes a written application
· Friends completes:
· National Criminal History Background Check
· Child Protective Services Background Check
· Three Personal Reference Checks
Step #2 –Training
· The Friends staff provides a 3 hour training session where the rules of “Friendship” are discussed and volunteers are encouraged to ask questions and voice any concerns they may have
Step #3 –Interview
· Volunteer will meet with the Friends staff for an in-depth interview
Step #4 –"Match" Meeting
· A Friends staff member will join the volunteer in meeting the child and their family for the first time
If you know a child who would benefit from having an adult friend, please print and complete a Request a Friend form. You can either mail the form or bring it to our office, which is located at:
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