At Fayetteville Urban Ministry, we believe in the potential of every young person, no matter the challenges they may face. Since 1982, our Find-A-Friend (FAF) program has been a beacon of hope for at-risk youth in our community. Established as the first program of its kind in North Carolina, FAF provides mentorship, guidance, and support to young people between the ages of 6 and 18, helping them navigate difficult circumstances and build a brighter future.

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Every year, Find-A-Friend serves between 140 and 200 youth who are at risk of falling through the cracks. These are young people facing challenges such as bullying, school suspensions, academic struggles, probation, gang involvement, or family instability. Whether they’re coping with a parent’s incarceration or trying to overcome socioeconomic barriers, they find a safe place within the FAF program—a place where they’re not judged by their past but empowered to shape their future.

The heart of the program lies in mentorship. Caring adults from the community volunteer their time to mentor these youth, providing one-on-one support that can truly change lives. Through after-school workshops, life skills training, and a six-week Summer Achievement Camp, FAF offers more than just guidance; it gives young people the tools and confidence they need to thrive.

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In addition to mentorship, our Career Readiness component prepares older youth, ages 14 to 18, for success beyond the classroom. From paid on-the-job training to financial literacy workshops, we ensure that these young people not only gain valuable skills but also the self-assurance to pursue their dreams. FAF helps youth see that, no matter their background, they have the potential to succeed and make meaningful contributions to the world around them.

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But Find-A-Friend is more than just a program—it’s a community of support and encouragement. It’s a place where young people feel seen, heard, and valued. It’s where futures are shaped and dreams are realized. We believe in investing in our youth, because when they succeed, our entire community flourishes.

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We invite you to be a part of this life-changing work. Whether as a mentor, a volunteer, or a donor, your support helps create a pathway for our youth to break cycles of hardship and achieve their full potential. Join us in empowering the next generation—because together, we can create a brighter tomorrow.

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"Every child deserves a champion—an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best they can possibly be."
— Rita Pierson​

Thank you Cumberland Community Foundation for
helping fund our 2024 Summer Camp!