Based in Orange, the Friendly Center has served those less fortunate in the local area since 1924.  Executive Director Cathy Seelig (right) is pictured above with Program Director Cynthia Drury in front of Friendly Center facility on West Rose Avenue.

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Friendly Center

Assisting those less fortunate in Orange County since 1924, the Friendly Center provides life-changing services to hundreds of local families each year.

As this holiday season approaches, the need for helping low-income residents is greater than ever, said Program Director Cynthia Drury for the non-profit Friendly Center.

“Last December, we pre-qualified 800 families that received toys and food,” she said.  “This year, we think families are going to be under even greater economic strain.  Fortunately, we have a broad spectrum of support from the local community, churches and businesses.  Volunteers are also critical to our success.”

Offering 25 programs and services including family advocacy, counseling, food and utility assistance, senior services, and tutoring and enrichment programs for children, the Friendly Center provides a helping hand that enables many residents to get back on their feet and become self-supporting members of the community.

Among the organization’s longest-running and most successful services, the children and youth tutoring program has become a rewarding experience for students and volunteers alike.

“We tutor K-12 at many tutoring sites, three of which are in partnership with the city,” Cynthia said.  “Our volunteers help the children with homework, or tutor them on specific areas of need.  Our ratio is one tutor to three students at the elementary level.”

Volunteers come from all sectors of the community, including retired residents, Chapman University students. ROP interns and local high school students working for credits.  The volunteer force also helps with events and distribution of food, along with assisting in fundraising.  Local churches, Rotary and Kiwanis are also very supportive.

“It’s a rewarding experience for our volunteers,” Cynthia said.  “They are so welcome here, and in fact, we hold an annual volunteer appreciation event every year.  We host ice-cream socials for our volunteer tutors and other types of gatherings.  We really want them to know that they are truly appreciated.”

Friendly Center
147 West Rose Ave, Orange, CA 92867  /  (714) 771-5300