Dear Friends and Supporters,

When I think about 2026, I think about promises kept.

Because of your support, more children and families across Eastern Idaho had access to the long-term relationships that define Friends of the Children. Together, we expanded into Fort Hall, formalized partnerships with two additional school districts, and hired two new Friends to walk alongside 16 more children.

In just one year, the number of children and families we serve doubled.

Those milestones matter because of what they mean for the children and families behind them. More children have someone they can count on. More families have a trusted partner during difficult seasons. More young people have opportunities to discover their strengths, build confidence, and imagine new possibilities for their future.

I've learned that meaningful change rarely happens all at once. More often, it grows through years of trust, encouragement, accountability, and consistency. It grows when someone keeps showing up.

That is the promise at the heart of Friends of the Children, and it is the promise your support helps us keep.

In the pages that follow, you'll learn about the growth and triumphs of youth, including Taylor*, Miguel*, and Allen*. You'll also see what caregivers told us in this year's survey about the impact of having a trusted, long-term partner alongside their family. Some spoke about the growth they've seen in their children. Others shared stories of support that helped their family through challenging times.

Together, these experiences offer a glimpse into what becomes possible when children and families know they are not facing life's challenges alone.

Every milestone in this report reflects a community that believes a child's circumstances should not determine their future. Families, Friends, staff, volunteers, school partners, community partners, and supporters all have a role in creating the opportunities highlighted in these pages.

As we look ahead, our focus remains simple: honoring the promises we've already made. Thank you for helping ensure that every child and family in our program continues to receive the long-term support they deserve.

Thank you for believing in the children and families we serve, and in the power of relationships. Most of all, thank you for helping make 12+ years, no matter what, more than a promise.

With gratitude,

Gina Judd
Executive Director, Friends of the Children-Eastern Idaho