If you are:
- a responsible adult - age 21 and over,
- a person that enjoys children and is able to spend an hour or so on a regular basis with a special youngster,
- able to meet State guidelines,
you may be able to make a difference in the life of a child.

The "Friend to a Child" program is a cooperative effort between the Broome County Department of Social Services of New York State and the Children's Home that seeks to provide caring volunteer visitors to those children who otherwise would not have visitors.

Our mission of service to children and their families is enhanced daily by the unwavering commitment of our dedicated volunteers. Currently 39 people bring time and talent on a weekly basis to our children. Volunteers fulfill many roles: classroom tutors, recreational playmate, a friend who shares the love and cuddles from their Therapy Dog, some help with celebrating birthday times, as well as one on one mentors to individual children. Volunteers give their time for many reasons but when asked what they get in return most tell stories of the simple moments that their hearts were touched by a child.

All volunteers are screened and when the application process is complete, the prospective "Friend" is introduced to a child's case, meets the social worker, and has an opportunity to ask questions about the prospective child. Visits begin on campus and later on, as you develop a friendship and trust, longer visits may be arranged. You may take the child off campus for a few hours to the mall, to a park, a movie, or lunch at McDonald's. Visits may be from an hour every two weeks to an all day visit, once a week.

Our hope is that this opportunity will develop into a lasting friendship and mentoring relationship, for a few months, a year, or until such time as the child's status changes.

There will also be a support group for those persons who may want to come together for the purpose of sharing experiences, gaining support and helpful information in regard to the development of their relationship with their child.

There is no monetary reimbursement, only our heartfelt thanks and the opportunity to make a child's life happier and more rewarding . . . for having known you as a friend.

You are invited to become a "Friend to a Child." For more information call Kate Stacey, Volunteer Coordinator, at (607) 772-6904 ext. 186, or e-mail kstacey@chowc.org. Click here for an application.