A Friend’s House supports residents and their families by offering placement for sibling groups whenever possible. Additionally, we host weekly Family Visitations for the resident(s) with their family members who are approved by the Department of Family and Children Services. The goal is always to reunite residents with their families when possible and upon the court’s approval. A Friend’s House strives to create a family atmosphere within our program in these particular ways:

Family Dinner Nights – We are grateful for community partners who sponsor group dinners at some of our local restaurants like Mellow Mushroom, Baby Jane’s, and more. Other community groups sponsor Take-Out dinners for our residents on occasion; and still others will sponsor dessert! A resident favorite is the Homemade Family Dinner, where they all gather together around one very large table for a special meal prepared by our kitchen staff. 

Game Night – AFH is fortunate to have volunteers who enjoy coming over to play games, whether it’s a game of cards, Monopoly, or puzzles. This intergenerational activity promotes positive family interactions and good ole fashioned fun. 

Movie Night – Choosing a movie to watch as a group and adding some popcorn and candy is a resident favorite. Often our community will supply the movies, everything from biographies and historical fiction to the latest teen thrillers. 

Birthdays and Graduations – It’s so important to celebrate each resident’s milestone!  This is an opportunity for all residents to come together in support of each other in a healthy, communal environment. We have community partners, Birthday Buddies, and volunteer groups who make sure each resident is recognized on their special day with gifts, cake, and love. 

Arts and Crafts – Volunteers come in to lead our residents in everything from jewelry making to painting to macramé. This invaluable exercise promotes learning, cooperation, and healing through creativity.

A Friend’s House welcomes community groups and individuals who wish to support the growth and development of our youth through cultural awareness and social activity; to help widen the lens through which our youth see the world, and their place in it. 

Camps – Sports camps, recreational camps, and overnight camps are some of the ways in which our youth have gained new experiences that were otherwise unavailable to them. Camps promote structured fun, learning, and communal positivity. 

Lunch N Learn – Professional community members are invited to our facility to share stories and insights regarding their profession. This program provides an opportunity to ask questions and learn about potential career paths. 

Picnics and Pool Parties – A Friend’s House has long standing community partners who host picnics with hay-rides and helicopter rides, cook outs, Back to School pool parties, and more. Social events such as these provide a host of learning opportunities from etiquette to graciousness, not to mention fun, and quite often a new experience for many of our residents. 

Cultural and Academic Outings – Trips to museums, art shows, concerts, plays, and historical venues take place as often as possible. Many of these ticketed outings are sponsored by our community members. Whether a local production by the Henry Players or a visit to the King Center in downtown Atlanta, our youth relish the chance to have a new experience or learn something new. 

Faith Based Activities – Residents at AFH have the option and opportunity to participate in off-campus, faith-based activities and services if they so choose.