Building self-esteem with support from a Friend

Child’s Name: Demarco*
Age: 13
In Friends-KC since: 2002
Hobbies: Chess, football
Aspires To Be: Professional football player
Friend (Mentor): Kenan

Demarco is a thirteen-year-old with a love and concern for others that contradict the pervasive violence in the world around him.  He has been exposed to drug addicts, alcoholism, family conflicts, and the acrimony of court proceedings.  Weeks before the birth of his baby sister, Demarco’s family was evicted from their home and their belongings were thrown to the curb.

While Demarco has seen things in his young life that many of us would never even dream of, he has the drive to reach his potential and live free. Time spent with his Friend has exposed Demarco to healthy eating habits, volunteering, museums, visual arts, Civil Rights history, music, athletics, college preparation, cooking, and more.

Demarco always exhibits a generous, giving nature.  He frequently asks when he can volunteer for the community service events that he and his Friend, Kenan, have done together, such as serving meals to homeless men at a downtown shelter.  His giving spirit deeply moved his Friend when he learned that Demarco had given his $20 cash birthday gift to his mother for groceries.

Two years ago, Demarco was proud to tell Kenan that his family was finally able to move out of a homeless shelter and into a new home. He feels much more stable and settled now.  He knows he can attend the same school and has a strong community supporting him.

This past year, Demarco has also performed well in school. He and Kenan devote much of their time to homework and studying together, and Kenan makes sure Demarco understands all of his assignments. Demarco feels comfortable asking for help and is eager to learn new things.

For better or worse, Demarco’s life has given him the favorable personality traits of a fine young adult, and he realizes how much he has benefited from Friends of the Children.  With the help of his Friend, an entire world of possibilities has opened to Demarco. The experience has fostered a desire in him to give back in whatever ways he can. When asked, Demarco’s will express that he wants to be a football player.  Those who have come to know him believe that no matter what he becomes, Demarco’s real passion lies in being a positive force for others.

Demarco is a sterling example of why Friends of the Children works tirelessly to support the needs of children who, like Demarco, have the desire to become remarkable, productive citizens. With a little help from his Friend, Demarco is preparing to enter a world that better be prepared for Demarco!

Support Demarco and all our children and mentors.

Learn more about our results and impacts or watch a video of our program in action.
*the name of the child has been changed to protect his identity.