At the heart of Friends of the Children – Twin Cities are the consistent, caring relationships between Friends and the youth they serve. Week after week, those connections create space for learning, growth, and discovery.

Sometimes breakthroughs happen in big ways, but more often they begin with small, everyday experiences that spark confidence and trust.

Friends Darlington and Te’Ashia recently shared two stories that show just how powerful those moments can be.

Finding Their Shot

Malik* and Jayden* showed up at the park one sunny afternoon with a basketball in hand and one goal in mind: to make a basket.

“The hoop stands double their size, but that didn’t stop them,” their Friend, Darlington, shared. “For the first fifteen minutes, they just practiced getting the ball high enough to touch the rim.”

After watching Darlington make a few baskets, their determination grew, and then a kind kid from the nearby community center joined in to share a few tips. With grit, perseverance, and encouragement, they both began making layups, and Jayden even made a mid-range shot.

They celebrated with ice cream, but the real victory was what they learned along the way: that effort matters, that support makes a difference, and that confidence grows one small success at a time.

Learning Through Connection

That same spirit of growth showed up at the American Indian Roseville Back to School Block Party, where Layla* and Nia* joined their Friend, Te’Ashia, for a day focused on leadership and community. They learned about voting and civic engagement with the League of Women Voters of Roseville Area and even met Ramsey Co. District 7 Commissioner Kelly Miller.

The girls later played a round of “spin the wheel” trivia, winning stickers for every correct answer. They wrapped up the day with face painting, balloon animals, new backpacks, and smiles that said it all.

Each story reminds us that growth begins in simple, steady moments, where encouragement builds confidence and connection creates lasting impact.

*Youth names have been changed to protect privacy