Friends of the Children Honors Simone Biles and Founders Duncan and Cindy Campbell at 30th Anniversary Gala

Friends of the Children celebrated more than 30 years of empowering youth and impacting generational change on October 24, in Santa Monica, California with special guest Simone Biles—World Champion gymnast and youth advocate. Simone was honored as a “Champion for Children,” and the founders of Friends of the Children—Duncan and Cindy Campbell—were recognized for their commitment to youth across the country.

“I’ve always wondered what my legacy would be, what I could do to give back…and then I found Friends of the Children,” said Simone Biles. “There was an instant connection because I’ve gone through what these kids have gone through. I’ve grown through what these kids are going to grow through. I can see myself in these kids who just need someone who believes in them and that’s exactly what Friends of the Children does.”

The night opened with an energetic welcome by Friends and youth from the Friends of the Children – Los Angeles chapter. Leaders from across our organization’s 41 sites, including our Friends - Utah Executive Director Kelsey Lewis, were there to celebrate, along with philanthropists, industry magnates, and celebrities. Two alumni from the Friends of the Children program were featured speakers: Cardeana Burton, who teaches high school in East Memphis, Tennessee, and Tah-Jae Franklyn, a singer in Seattle, Washington who has already performed for more than 14,000 people Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena early in her career. Tah-Jae performed hits by Smokey Robinson, a favorite of founder Duncan Campbell.

Terri Sorensen, CEO of Friends of the Children – National said: “Tonight we honor Duncan and Cindy for their bold innovation, for their big hearts, and for their impact on over 20,000 children and caregivers throughout the last 30 years.”

The celebration was also a fundraiser, raising $3 million for Friends of the Children to serve more youth across our national network. Local and national press is forthcoming, but more information can be found in our press release here.