We Are Friends Music Festival is a celebration of achievement, and a movement towards generational change. This event is focused on two things: first, we aim to inspire viewers to care about something bigger than themselves; secondly, we want to empower people to freely express themselves through the vibes of popular music. 58 minutes is what we have to pour our hearts out, laydown the existence of Friends of the Children-Portland, dance towards change, rhyme to the beat, invest in the youth and come together as a community of one. 

Your investment is crucial to our mission and assures our youth that they matter, they have what it takes to make a positive difference in the world, and you are here to help them succeed. 

Help us in build a stronger community for the future.

Please, make a gift today!

ABOUT US

Friends of the Children-Portland has been successful in breaking the cycles of generational poverty for 27 years. Youth are selected in kindergarten through a rigorous, eight-week evaluation process and paired with a full-time, salaried, professional mentor until graduation. Our mentors, called Friends, are  highly trained in working with youth who live at the intersection of poverty and trauma. We help our youth navigate the systemic barriers so they can realize their dreams. We are relentless so our youth can be resilient. 

OUR MISSION

Impact generational change by empowering youth who are facing the greatest obstacles through relationships with professional mentors—12+ years, no matter what.

OUR VISION

 We envision a world where all youth are empowered to dream big and build bright futures for themselves, their families, and their communities.

OUR RESULTS

• 92% of youth go on to enroll in post-secondary education, serve our country or enter the workforce.

• 95% of youth remain free from juvenile justice system involvement.

• 83% of youth earn a high school diploma or GED.

• 98% of youth wait to parent until after their teen years.