History

Family Friends is an intergenerational program created by the National Council on Aging that matches volunteers 55 and older with children in need. First started in 1986, there are currently 36 Family Friends programs nationwide. Originally serving children with disabilities and chronic illnesses, today Family friends programs also reach out to children who are disadvantaged, homeless or at risk.

Program Description

Mount Sinai School of Medicine and The Hospital Division of General Pediatrics' Family Friends program recruits, trains and supervises older adults to provide weekly support to families that have a child with special needs. The volunteers give support to families in East and Central Harlem by caring, listening and providing stability and friendship.

Who are the Children?

Children with special needs such as:

• Emotional problems
• Developmental delay
• Learning disabilities
• Chronic medical conditions
• Physical disabilities
• Exposure to abuse or neglect

Who Is a Family Friend?

An adult, 55+ years, who:

• Loves children
• Is patient
• Is healthy and active
• Is compassionate and committed

What Are Some of the Activities a Family Friend Can Do?

For 2 to 4 hours a week, the Family Friend will visit the child at home or work with children who are waiting to see the doctor in the Pediatric Practice. The activities may include:

• Reading
• Playing games
• Tutoring
• Arts & crafts
• Just being a friend to the family

Friends program draws on the strength of community elders to provide special needs children and their families with an extended support system. This support, in the form of time and friendship, exemplifies the rich resources the East Harlem community has to offer.