Established in 1974, Project Friendship, is a community-based mentoring program that matches adults in the Greater Norwalk area with young people who are in need of a positive mentoring relationship.  Junior Project Friendship (JPF) was established ten years later in 1984 due to the increased demand for mentoring services.  The JPF Program operates in the towns of Darien, New Canaan, Norwalk, Weston, Westport, and Wilton and matches approximately 60 children with teen mentors each year. 

FCA’s mentoring programs offer young people the chance to have fun, enjoy new experiences, and develop meaningful relationships with positive role models outside of their families. Volunteer mentors are recruited, trained, and matched with children in the community in need of one on one attention.  FCA staff provides on-going supervision and support to all matches. Matches meet approximately three hours a week for a minimum of one year. FCA’s mentoring programs:
    • Build bonds of friendship
    • Nurture self-esteem
    • Encourage new interests
    • Provide an additional support system
    • Help develop social and coping skills

What does it take to become a mentor?
     • 18 years old with a clean criminal, child abuse, and driving record check.  (Project Friendship)
    • You must be a Junior or Senior in High School who has a drivers license and transportation.  
     (Junior Project Friendship)
    • Complete the application and go through an in depth interview and orientation process.
    • Most importantly, commit to making a difference in the life of a “Little Friend” by being consistent,
     patient, and supportive.

Learn about other ways you can help FCA’s Mentoring Programs.

For more information about how you can participate, call (203) 855-8765.