Friends of the Children was founded in 1993 by Portland entrepreneur Duncan Campbell. Campbell was inspired by his own troubled childhood in NE Portland to start a revolutionary new program to help at-risk children in the same neighborhood where he grew up. In 1992, The Institute for Children conducted extensive research on resilient youth and factors that influenced their success. The Institute sought to understand why some children encountering negative situations develop lives of poverty, violence and criminal behavior, while others overcome these obstacles and become strong contributing members of society. The research discovered that the single most important factor that fosters resiliency in at-risk children is a caring and supportive relationship with an adult. Intervention and support must begin early, continue as the child matures, and consistently address the needs of the whole person. In 1993, Friends of the Children opened its doors with three friends serving 24 children. Today, Friends of the Children – Portland has 42 Friends guiding, supporting and mentoring more than 350 children.