A Friendly Adult Mentor (FAM) is any adult aged 25 or older who a Young Friend feels would be compatible with the group and has been both screened by the Yearly Meeting office and completed the required training. Adults over 21 but under 25 are considered FAMs In Training (FITs). They may participate as a FAM with the approval of the Designated FAM. FAMs should be willing to spend time and energy with high school-aged youth for an entire weekend. FAMs are encouraged to join Young Friends in activities as they wish. Some FAMs should be available to take food planners to a grocery store on Saturday afternoon, if necessary. FAMs concerned with behavior of Young Friends should feel free to discuss such concerns with any member of the Nuts and Bolts Committee with whom they feel comfortable. If necessary, a Nuts and Bolts Committee meeting will be called. FAMs are not expected to make meals or be responsible for cleanup; however, their participation is encouraged. FAMs should remember that they are here to have fun. Their presence is important and necessary, particularly in the case of an emergency, but they should keep in mind that Young Friends is a self-governing body in which they are participants and not authority figures.Â
If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a FAM, the application form can be found here.