There is no one better qualified to mentor a child in foster care than a youth currently in foster care or a former foster care adult. Individuals who have lived the life in the child welfare system are real survivors. They have the capacity to teach others how to cope with situations that are beyond their control, yet taking advantage of what is available to them that could be beneficial to them becoming successful and self sufficient adults.

First Wings mentoring was created by Louis H. Henderson. President/CEO of NAFFCCA based upon his own experiences in the foster care system in Washington, DC. Louis recognized at an early age through his own experiences that his best advice and relationships were with adults who had also been products of the child welfare system. His mentors provided activities that helped to ease the pain of being in the system and missing relatives that he wanted to live with. They also helped him to make decisions about his future and fulfill his dreams in life. They were always available to talk by phone late at night if it was difficult to sleep because of issues that were unresolved in the group home or his personal life.

NAFFCCA has provided services for youth in foster care for over 15 years. The mentoring experience at NAFFCCA has allowed older youth currently in care to mentor younger children living in foster homes. Mentees and mentors meet twice per month for an activity that has been planned by the mentor with approval by the professional staff. Many of these activities are done in group settings which allow greater opportunities to make friends and develop positive long term relationships.
Former foster care adults mentor older and younger youth in care. The older youth are able to utilize the benefits of a mentor through activities but also in making decisions about their future as they approach emancipation (aging out) from the child welfare system.

Mentors help the youth to identify housing, make decisions about furthering their educations and securing viable employment. Mentors help to secure furnishings and make the housing experience like a real home that will be there for a lifetime. First Wings also provides household items through donations that are received from Bed and Bath to youth that are in group homes, independent living programs or have aged out to have those household items that make the daily life skills functioning easier.
Mentors, care providers and foster care youth may contact the First wings coordinator to schedule an appointment to visit our office at which time an application is completed for mentoring services. The First wings professional staff of Social Workers in collaboration with provider staff members matches youth with appropriate mentors. A schedule of activities is developed and a meeting time is scheduled for the mentor and mentee to meet.

Current and former foster care youth may select items that are needed during the appointment or can contact our office to schedule a time to visit. For further information contact:

Director of Program Development
NAFFCCA, Inc.
202 291-1603