Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate will have the following Education, Experience, and Abilities: • 2 or 4-year degree • Alternatively, at least seven years' progressive experience working with children and families will be considered in lieu of a college degree • Willingness to commit for a minimum of three years • Bilingual Spanish language skills are preferred • Advocate to secure additional resources, opportunities, and services for youth as appropriate • Assist with systems navigation in schools to secure conditions for optimal academic success • Strong interpersonal skills • Demonstrated ability to work with children in varied capacities and settings • Ability to develop trusting relationships with children, families, teachers, and others involved in each child's life • Ability to work independently and as a team player • Ability to manage several concurrent issues and solve problems effectively • Strong written and verbal communications skills • Strong organizational and time management skills • A sense of humor is a plus. For each child, a Friend will set positive expectations; nurture and promote each child's strengths, talents, and abilities; help ensure physical and emotional well-being; teach life and academic skills; provide enrichment activities; and model responsible behavior.