January 15, 2025 Meet our Friend, Henry! Fostering Potential Through Compassionate Mentorship Henry’s journey as a mentor has been shaped by a wealth of experiences working with youth in various capacities. As a professional mentor with Friends of the Children New York, he brings a diverse background and a deep passion for supporting young people on their paths to success. Henry began his career teaching Pre-K, where he cultivated an appreciation for the foundational importance of early childhood education. Later, through his work with AmeriCorps, he directed an afterschool computer literacy program, helping students develop critical digital skills. His dedication to education continued as a high school Spanish teacher at Harlem Children’s Zone, where he fostered a love for language, culture, and academic achievement. "These experiences have taught me the value of meeting youth where they are, building meaningful relationships, and empowering them to realize their potential," Henry shared. As a Friend, Henry’s approach is rooted in compassion, consistency, and a belief in his Achievers’ limitless potential. One Achiever who has particularly benefited from Henry’s guidance is Hunter, whose story we shared in December. Once struggling academically, Hunter is now an honor roll student—a testament to the power of mentorship and the strength of their connection. Henry’s dedication to nurturing each Achiever’s unique talents and supporting their growth is a reflection of Friends of the Children’s mission to empower youth facing systemic obstacles. His work is a powerful reminder that mentorship isn’t just about guidance—it’s about believing in the possibilities of every young person and walking alongside them as they achieve their dreams.