Spokane, WA - January 28, 2026 - Friends of the Children - Eastern Washington is proud to announce that its national organization, Friends of the Children, has been named one of six new Inspire Change Grant Partners by the National Football League (NFL) for 2026. The Inspire Change initiative supports nonprofit organizations working to reduce barriers to opportunity and create lasting impact in communities across the country, including here in Eastern Washington.

Friends of the Children joins a select group of national organizations recognized for their commitment to driving meaningful change in areas such as education and youth development. The Inspire Change program provides dedicated resources from the NFL, its clubs, and players to nonprofit partners, amplifying impactful stories and helping organizations expand their reach and effectiveness.

For Friends of the Children – Eastern Washington, this national recognition brings meaningful local impact. As the organization continues to build its presence in Spokane, resources and visibility generated through the NFL Inspire Change partnership will strengthen mentoring support for children and families across the region.

“Being part of the NFL’s Inspire Change initiative shines a spotlight on the transformative power of long-term mentoring here in Spokane,” said Jesse Zumbro, Executive Director of Friends of the Children – Eastern Washington. “Every child deserves a consistent, caring adult in their corner, and this recognition reinforces our commitment to walking alongside each young person through every stage of their growth and development.”

The NFL’s investment in Friends of the Children will support enhanced training, coaching, and resources across the organization’s national network. This partnership will increase capacity to serve more youth and families through long-term, one-on-one mentoring relationships.

Friends of the Children’s mentoring model, built around paid, professional mentors who support youth from kindergarten through high school graduation, aligns closely with the NFL’s commitment to breaking down barriers and expanding opportunities for young people. The support from the Inspire Change program will strengthen Friends of the Children’s ability to deliver consistent, high-quality mentoring that makes a measurable difference in children’s lives.

Additional information available at: https://media.nfl.com/news-and-releases/corporate-communications/nfl-announces-six-new-inspire-change-grant-partners-for-2026

About Friends of the Children – Eastern Washington

Launched in 2025, Friends of the Children – Eastern Washington provides long-term, relationship-based mentoring to children facing significant systemic barriers. Friends of the Children–Eastern Washington’s mission is to impact generational change by empowering youth facing the greatest obstacles through relationships with paid, professional mentors (called “Friends”)– for 12+ years, no matter what. As part of a national network, the Eastern Washington chapter brings trusted mentors and community partners together to ensure every child has the support, opportunity, and encouragement they need to thrive in school, career, and life.

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Media Contact: Jesse Zumbro, Executive Director - Friends of the Children – Eastern Washington, 509-795-1875, jzumbro@friendseasternwa.org