A Volunteer Opportunity
BeFriend-A-Child volunteers provide companionship, support and guidance to children who have been (or who are at risk of being) abused or neglected. You can have fun and at the same time develop a nurturing relationship with a child who needs your support.
What is the BeFriend-A-Child Program?
The BeFriend-A-Child Program is a special volunteer opportunity offered through the Department of Family Services to provide positive experiences for children who have been abused or neglected or who are at risk of abuse or neglect. DFS social workers refer children they serve.
We carefully match children 5-12 years old with trained BeFriend volunteers who spend several hours with them every other week in recreational and/or educational activities. Once matched, children turning 13 can stay in the program with their BeFriends as part of our older BeFriend "alumni" group. Volunteers "BeFriend" a child for at least one year. Many volunteers choose to keep the relationship longer. You’ll receive strong staff and peer support and regular and varied group events, too.
What are the goals?
The main goal of BeFriend-A-Child is to assist the child in developing enhanced self-esteem and forming healthy relationships. BeFriend volunteers provide a positive adult role model for the child and help the child develop appropriate coping and other life skills. BeFriends provide another important benefit: they provide the parent(s) valuable free time to pursue their own interests. Parents and volunteers often say the children improve their communication skills and willingness to talk and relate with adults and peers. Child and parent stress is reduced.
What are the qualifications for becoming a BeFriend volunteer?
BeFriend volunteers must be at least 21 years old, have an open, non-judgmental, accepting attitude, and be able to set limits with the child. We seek culturally diverse volunteers for our children of many cultures.
Learn more about how YOU can make a difference in a child’s
life...
Call the BeFriend-A-Child Coordinator
Department of Family Services Prevention Programs
703-324-7874
TTY 703-222-9452
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alternative format upon request. Please call 703-324-5870.
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