Below is the story of Kevin* a child who was selected for Friends of the Children – Portland as a kindergartner and who is showing signs of positive change from his relationship with his Friend Tyler*, and his involvement in the program.

CHILD STORY: Kevin & Tyler

Kevin is a good tempered, animated boy, who at his young age faces challenges that place him at risk of repeating family cycles of crime and poverty.  Kevin missed the first few months of his kindergarten year and began school with the lowest cognitive skills in his class…unable to even name his colors.  It was also clear that he was not receiving the amount of individual care he needed at home as demonstrated by poor hygiene, dressing himself, and irregular attendance at school. His family then relocated, and Kevin faced starting first grade at a new school in a new neighborhood.

As an introduction to Friends of the Children, Kevin had the opportunity to participate in Elementary Camp Friends, our annual two-week, academic summer camp that offers program children a bridge between grade levels to set them up for educational success during the upcoming school year.  At camp, Kevin formed relationships with adults quickly, including his new Friend, Tyler. 

Kevin is always full of hugs and shows his obvious excitement whenever he and Tyler spend time together…he recently requested a haircut “just like Tyler’s.” Tyler recognizes that Kevin is capable academically and they spend time reading and doing homework together.  He has made up a lot of ground in school, though he still struggles and needs extra support to remain motivated, which he does not get at home. 

The pair stood together during our Annual Friend Raiser Event in May 2007 and Kevin shared what kind of legacy he wants to leave.  He told a crowd of nearly 700 guests that in 15 years he “wants to be a teacher, so I can help kids learn.”  Before leaving his classroom on the last day of the school year, he confidently turned to his first grade teacher and shared this goal.  Tyler smiles easily when he talks about Kevin and sees him as a boy “with a lot of promise…consistency is the key.”

Tyler’s relationship with Kevin is just beginning and we are already seeing the results of his positive role modeling on Kevin’s life.  For the four hours a week that Tyler spends with Kevin, he is providing him with friendship, stability, trust and academic support so he can achieve skills to overcome his daunting circumstances.

* Names have been changed to protect our program youth.