One year after our first conversation with Dr. Betty Handy, Executive Director of Friends of the Children Philadelphia, the organization has moved from its launch phase into something deeper and more enduring. What began as a new chapter in the city is now a growing network of mentors, families, schools, and community partners working together to support children in Philadelphia.

“We just celebrated our first full year,” Handy shared. “And it’s been really great.”

Building Momentum in Philadelphia Schools and Communities

Over the past year, Friends of the Children Philadelphia has expanded its team of professional mentors, known as “Friends,” from three to five, with plans to bring on a sixth. As awareness of the program grows, so does interest from families and children.

Because mentors work directly in schools, their presence extends beyond the children they are assigned to. Students recognize them by name. Teachers include them in school celebrations. Over time, the mentors have become part of the fabric of each school community.

“That’s important to us,” Handy said. “It’s not just about being present. It’s about being a real partner.”

The organization currently works with referral partners including W.D. Kelley Elementary School, Bayard Taylor Elementary School, and the North 10 Lenfest Center. As those relationships strengthen, Friends of the Children Philadelphia is exploring expansion into additional schools across North Philadelphia, Hunting Park, and Kensington, as well as potential partnerships with charter schools.

What Success Looks Like: Listening to Caregivers

When asked what she is most proud of after the first year, Handy points to feedback from caregivers.

A recent caregiver survey revealed overwhelmingly positive responses, with families noting strong communication, consistency, and meaningful changes in their children’s behavior and confidence.

“One parent said, ‘I can now see that my child is acting like a child,’” Handy shared. “That really stays with me.”

Friends of the Children works with children starting in pre-K through first grade, years when stress, instability, or trauma can disrupt development. By providing long-term, one-on-one mentoring, the program helps create space for children to simply be kids.

The support often extends beyond the child. During the recent SNAP benefit disruptions, the organization proactively contacted families, shared information, and connected caregivers with resources.

“Our core value is to put children first,” Handy said. “But that means supporting families too.”

Supporting Mentors Through Training and Connection

Behind every successful mentoring relationship is a deeply supported team. Friends of the Children Philadelphia invests heavily in training and professional development for its mentors, beginning with a national onboarding program and continuing throughout the year.

Training includes trauma-informed care, crisis response, mandated reporting, and child abuse prevention, as well as ongoing coaching and peer support. Mentors meet regularly with leadership and are encouraged to ask questions, seek guidance, and lean on one another.

“This work can feel isolating if you do not have support,” Handy explained. “We make sure our mentors never feel like they are on their own.”

That investment has paid off. The chapter’s first cohort of mentors has remained intact, an achievement in a field where burnout and turnover are common.

“They stay because they know the work matters,” Handy said. “And they feel respected and supported.”

A Space That Feels Like Home

Friends of the Children Philadelphia’s office has also become a meaningful part of the program’s success. Known affectionately as “the clubhouse,” the space serves as a welcoming environment where children spend time with their mentors after school.

When kids arrive, there are high fives, hugs, snacks, games, and reading time. The space has hosted everything from homework help to creative activities like slime making and smoothie demonstrations.

“The energy completely changes when the kids walk in,” Handy said. “It lights up the whole space.”

The central Philadelphia location has also been a practical asset, offering easy access to neighborhood resources, grocery stores, and community destinations. This makes it easier for mentors to support children and families throughout the day.

Looking Ahead: Expanding Impact Across Philadelphia

In the year ahead, Friends of the Children Philadelphia plans to grow from serving 24 youth to 48, supported by six mentors. That expansion will extend the organization’s reach to nearly 100 caregivers and siblings, reinforcing its mission of creating generational change through long-term relationships.

“This is not about telling families what to do,” Handy said. “It is about being a partner and helping them navigate what they want and need.”

With growth comes the need for additional funding, staffing, and community support. Handy sees that as a sign of progress and an opportunity to deepen impact while remaining rooted in trust and consistency.

Leadership, Learning, and Collaboration

As the organization has stabilized, Handy’s leadership role has evolved. With foundational systems in place, she now spends more time building visibility, cultivating donor relationships, and connecting with other nonprofit leaders across Philadelphia and beyond.

“You do not build something like this alone,” she said. “You have to learn from others and be willing to collaborate.”

By engaging with peers and community partners, Friends of the Children Philadelphia has avoided duplicating efforts and instead focused on strengthening existing networks. This approach benefits both families and the broader nonprofit ecosystem.

How to Support Friends of the Children Philadelphia

Community support remains critical as the organization grows. Financial contributions, particularly monthly recurring donations, provide stability and allow Friends of the Children Philadelphia to plan for long-term impact.

Even small monthly gifts can make a meaningful difference, supporting mentors, families, and children year round. Community members can also follow the organization’s work, attend events, and stay engaged through newsletters and social media.

One year in, Friends of the Children Philadelphia has become more than a new nonprofit in the city. It is a trusted presence, showing up consistently, building relationships, and helping children thrive through the power of long-term mentorship.