When long-term, professional mentor Crystal—called a Friend—first started working with a youth named Jennifer* from Friends of the Children — Stockton, school drop-off was hard.

Every single morning, Jennifer and her mom had walked 25 minutes to school, the walk becoming a part of their routine—their special time together. When that changed, Jennifer felt it deeply.

At the time, Jennifer and her family were navigating housing instability and staying in a shelter. Her mom was also enrolled in a three-month workforce training program, working toward stable employment. Friend Crystal stepped in to help with school drop-off so Jennifer’s mom could fully focus on that opportunity.

Every Tuesday and Wednesday, Crystal took over school drop-off and at first Jennifer would climb into the car with tears in her eyes, hesitant, struggling to regulate her emotions. Separating from her mom and routine was hard. But Crystal kept showing up week after week at the same time, with the same smiling face, and the same positive energy.

Over time, something started to shift. Jennifer started trusting Crystal. The tears turned into laughter, conversation, and connection. To help build Jennifer’s confidence, Crystal started weaving in daily affirmations — reminding her she's smart, brave, and beautiful. Jennifer would hear them and then she would repeat them.

Then one morning, Jennifer said it first, before Crystal could start: "I'm strong, and brave, and beautiful."

That's what consistent, caring relationships look like—they create safety. When kids feel safe, they can grow. At Friends of the Children, our professional mentors show up for 12+ years, no matter what. Because every child deserves someone who believes in them until they believe in themselves.

Now, Jennifer skips into school chatting about how much fun it is going to be whether it’s mom or Crystal dropping her off. No tears, just a hug, a wave, and excitement as she heads straight for the door.

*Youth name changed to protect privacy