Be a FRIEND. Change a Life.
Walk alongside someone rebuilding after homelessness—and help them succeed in work, housing, and life.
Why This Work Matters
Our partners at Food on Foot know that rebuilding your life after homelessness takes more than just a job or an apartment. It takes community. It takes encouragement. And sometimes, it takes one reliable, caring person in your corner.
As a FRIEND mentor, you’ll be matched with someone in Food on Foot's Jobs & Housing Program who is working hard to build long-term stability in four key areas: Career, Housing, Finances, and Personal Growth. Many of our participants are already doing the hard work—they just need someone to walk beside them, celebrate the wins, and offer guidance when things get tough.
What You’ll Do
As a FRIEND, you’ll offer personalized encouragement, practical advice, and a consistent presence. You don’t need professional coaching experience—just compassion, reliability, and a willingness to show up.
You might:
-
Help with budgeting tips, building credit, or setting financial goals
-
Support job readiness through resume feedback, interview prep, or job search strategies
-
Offer insight or support with housing navigation or personal growth
-
Be a consistent, motivating voice as your mentee works toward key milestones
You’ll connect regularly—in person, by phone, or both—with support from the Food on Foot staff. You’ll also receive training and ongoing guidance to help you feel confident in the role.
Who You Are
This is a great opportunity for someone who:
-
Is a mid- or late-career professional, or a retired individual with time and heart to give
-
Brings empathy, consistency, and non-judgment to relationships
-
Believes in second chances and the power of one-on-one connection
-
Has lived experience, mentorship experience, or just a desire to help someone feel seen and supported
-
Can commit to regular connection (schedule varies by match)
What You’ll Gain
-
A deep, human connection that makes a visible difference in someone’s life
-
Insight into the challenges—and victories—of rebuilding after homelessness
-
Support and training from the Food on Foot team
-
A new sense of purpose and the chance to witness real transformation
About Food on Foot
Founded in 1996, Food on Foot is a Los Angeles nonprofit dedicated to assisting unhoused and low-income individuals with nutritious meals, clothing, life-skills education, full-time employment, and permanent housing. Through its Jobs & Housing Program, participants work hard to reach financial independence and graduate into self-sufficiency, with FRIENDS there to cheer them on along the way.
Learn more at foodonfoot.org and from recent features in ABC7, LA Times, and Spectrum News.
Time Commitment
Regular check-ins over the phone or in person, (based on mutual availability).
Minimum commitment of 3–6 months recommended.
