Friends of Star is a public-interest incorporated association established in 2002. We support youth and adolescents with mild developmental and learning challenges—including slow learners—to rediscover their unique brilliance and grow into their fullest potential. Our core initiatives include "Youth Alternative School", an alternative learning community; career exploration and employment training based on neurodiversity; and various social enterprises such as a Café Star, Youth Cookie, a publishing house, exhibitions and performances, as well as professional training programs for educators and specialists.​

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 Mission Statement  

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We create an inclusive and empowering learning environment that respects individual differences, fostering self-determination and career readiness for youth facing mental health challenges. We provide innovative career pathways and sustainable income-generating opportunities to promote financial independence and social mobility. As a community built on collaboration and mutual support, we strive for a sustainable future through shared responsibility and collective impact.

 

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Strategic Priorities

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1. Providing Specialized Education for Youth with Mental Health Challenges
We offer educational services to empower youth with mental health challenges to exercise self-determination, participate in economic activities, and contribute to society. Our model integrates financial literacy, mentorship, and career training to prepare youth for long-term success.

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1) Youth Alternative School: A supportive and interactive learning environment based on the Freinet philosophy, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.

2) College for Emerging Adults: A program focused on identity development, emotional regulation, financial capability, career exploration, and IT training, preparing youth for both life and work.

3) Star Career Training Hub: Comprehensive vocational training including industry-specific job education, certifications, OJT, resume writing, interview prep, workplace communication, stress management, and mentorship.

 
2. Operating Businesses to Support Employment

We operate businesses that provide youth with mental health challenges—facing employment barriers—with opportunities to participate in the local economy and explore entrepreneurship. These businesses reinvest revenue into expansion, fostering sustainable employment and growth.

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1) Café Star: A space for young adults with mental health challenges to gain employment as baristas, developing job readiness and customer service skills while generating revenue through beverage and cookie sales.

2) Youth Cookie: A bakery initiative offering hands-on pastry-making experience, with products sold through the café, helping youth develop skills in baking and business operations.

3) Publishing House: A platform for young writers to publish and monetize their essays, novels, and poetry, encouraging creative entrepreneurship and financial literacy.

 
3. Policy Advocacy for Youth with Mental Health Challenges

We engage in research initiatives and public discourse to advocate for policies that support the independence and inclusion of youth with mental health challenges.

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1) Research Groups: Conducting educational initiatives and running the "Winnicott Mental Health Experts Network" for mental health professionals.

2) Regular Seminars: Promoting research and discussions on borderline intelligence and mental health.

3) Legislative Forums: Hosting discussions at the National Assembly to advocate for policies supporting the inclusion and independence of youth with mental health challenges.

 
4. Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration & Community Engagement

We collaborate with universities, public agencies, and nonprofits to create a sustainable employment ecosystem for underserved youth. Through student internships, government-supported initiatives, and nonprofit funding, we provide career training, employment support, and mentorship, ensuring our programs are adaptive, impactful, and sustainable in the long term.