#United States #Portland #Friends of the Children #Youth Mentoring #Campbell Center

Friends of the Children Launches the Duncan and Cindy Campbell National Center of Excellence

On October 1, 2026, Friends of the Children, a leading organization in professional youth mentoring, proudly opened the doors to the Duncan and Cindy Campbell National Center of Excellence. This newly established center is located at 65 NE Stanton St. in Portland, Oregon, within the historic Albina neighborhood. It serves as both the national headquarters for Friends of the Children and the Albina campus for the organization's original chapter, established in Portland in 1993.

Named in honor of the organization's visionary founders, the Center of Excellence is designed to set new standards in the professional youth mentoring sector. With over 30 years of experience and expertise, Friends of the Children aims to create a global hub that will not only elevate best practices in youth mentoring but also address systemic challenges young people face today.

A Vision for the Future

The realization of this impressive facility was made possible through the generous contributions of more than two dozen foundations and private donors. Notably, Gary and Christine Rood made a significant donation of $5 million, underscoring the community's commitment to supporting youth initiatives.

Terri Sorensen, the Chief Executive Officer of Friends of the Children, emphasized the importance of professional mentorship in transforming young lives. She noted, "For more than 30 years, we have demonstrated that establishing a long-term, positive relationship with a professional mentor can change a child's life and disrupt generational cycles of poverty." The opening of the Center symbolizes a critical milestone in the organization's national journey, enhancing its ability to broaden its impact and convene thought leaders in the field.

Key Strategic Priorities

The Duncan and Cindy Campbell National Center of Excellence has outlined three strategic priorities that will guide its operations:

1. Improving Youth Outcomes: This initiative focuses on key developmental metrics such as mental health, literacy, and access to opportunities, ensuring that the youths receive support tailored to their individual needs.
2. Academic Partnerships: The center aims to establish a pioneering professional youth mentoring certificate, advocating for the professionalization of mentoring roles.
3. Field Leadership: The center will act as a central hub for thought leaders, showcasing essential research, and offering training and technical assistance in youth mentoring.

Long-term Commitments

Friends of the Children believes in building relationships that last, with a commitment to mentoring children for 12 or more years, regardless of the challenges they face. This enduring relationship allows mentors to foster trusting connections with youth, equipping them with essential life skills and facilitating generational change.

In pursuit of their mission to break the cycle of poverty among the most disadvantaged youth, the organization continues to evolve, meet unmet needs, and inspire other communities to adopt similar mentoring models. By combining academic principles with real-world mentorship, the Duncan and Cindy Campbell National Center of Excellence is set to further cement Friends of the Children’s reputation as a leader in youth empowerment.

For additional details about their programs and initiatives, visit friendsofthechildren.org.