Frequently Asked Questions

Visit the "Membership" page listed under "Get Involved" above to download forms and learn more about how to become a member. The Member Waiver and Inventory must be filled out annually.

Yes. Our staff is trained to work with people with disabilities, and all have passed a thorough background check. Program volunteers must also pass a background check. Check out the staff bios for more information on HFC Staff. Please let us know if you ever have questions about our staff.

You can pass on that information in several ways. You can:
1. Include any specific information in the Member forms that you fill out when registering.
2. Send us an email at info@highlandfriendshipclub.org with an update before a program.
3. Call our staff at 651-698-4096 to discuss your concerns and offer tips for helping your family adjust to new situations.
4. Talk to one of our staff members when checking in your family member at a program.

That's easy! Simply go to "Program Registration" listed under the "Program" button above, and you can see a complete list of our current program offerings. Payment can be made online with credit card or by mailing in a check to our PO Box 16437 St. Paul, MN 55116. We do not accept payments at the door for programs.

Programs and events take place at different locations around the Twin Cities area, so make sure you check the calendar and registration page to find out where and when the program is taking place.

There is no fee to become a member of Highland Friendship Club. All of our activities have a small fee which you pay in advance online with a credit card or mailing in a check to our PO Box. Many activities cost only $10!

Yes! By registering for programs online you have the option to select credit card payment. You can also pay online with a debit card or through your savings/checking account.

Sorry, no. In order for us to have accurate accounting and preparation, we require that members register online in advance for programs.

HFC has scholarships available! Contact HFC Program Manager Katie Markquart at katie@highlandfriendshipclub.org to be considered for a scholarship!

Please note that scholarships have been made available through the generosity of our granters and donors. For consideration, please contact Dan Reed at 612-363-5308

Highland Friendship Club uses donations from individuals, community groups, businesses and local foundations to support the programs and activities offered. Member registration fees pay for about 75% of the cost of the activity, HFC raises the funds to pay for the difference.

Members are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from Highland Friendship Club programs. Sometimes we meet at one location and then take a bus to another location. If bus transportation is provided, this will be indicated on the program description page as well as via email prior.

No, unless you need assistance with personal care or need to have medication administered during the activity. Parents/guardians do need to check-in with HFC staff and leave a phone number where they can be reached during the activity. If a family member does opt to stay, he/she is encouraged to let the HFC member hang out with their friends, and assist only if needed. After all, one of the Highland Friendship Club's goals is to foster independence!

We ask everyone who is dropping off a HFC member to check-in with staff and leave a phone number where you can easily be reached during the program. It’s important to us to be able to reach you if an emergency arises during the activity.

We do not require PCAs to stay. However, if you need personal assistance, it's up to you to make sure you have the resources you need. Highland Friendship Club staff does not provide personal care assistance. Some activities require one-to-one assistance, and it is beneficial to everyone if personal care attendants or a companion participate to make sure that everyone is able to fully participate in the activity.

We ask that you register in advance for programs. This helps us plan for the right amount of supplies and staff for the group size. However, we understand that things happen. Please at least check in or contact us in advance to find out if there is room for you to attend by emailing info@highlandfriendshipclub.org or calling 651-698-4096

Notify HFC ASAP of the cancellation via email at info@highlandfriendshipclub.org or via phone at 651-698-4096. Members who make a cancellation 48 hours in advance or more, will receive a credit that may be used at a later date. Late cancellations and no-shows will not be given a credit.

HFC will make every effort to reschedule a cancelled activity or program. If HFC cannot reschedule, members who have paid for the cancelled activity or program will be issued a credit to their account. Credits can be applied toward the payment of any HFC programs. Cash or any other forms of reimbursement will not be issued.

No problem. You decide the activities you want to be a part of - no one is forced to participate. Even if you've signed up for an activity but change your mind when you get there, that's OK. You can watch for a while and join in when you're comfortable. It's your choice. Some members participate in every event; some pick and choose just one or two. It's up to you.

Program and event volunteers must be 15 years old or older.

Yes, but HFC will provide all volunteers with the necessary training. No previous outside training is required!

No, Highland Friendship Club has paid staff members who are trained to work with people with disabilities. They will make sure you are comfortable with your volunteer role and help you when necessary.

Yes! HFC offers programs and events on weekends and during the evenings that volunteers are always welcome to join!

You can make a donation to Highland Friendship Club by sending a check to:
Highland Friendship Club
P.O. Box 16437
Saint Paul, MN 55116

Make an online donation by clicking on the DONATE button above. There are options for a one-time or sustaining (monthly, quarterly or annual) donation. Your donation is tax deductible.

A sustaining donation is a recurring donation either monthly, quarterly or annually. Big or small, sustaining donations are particularly beneficial in helping HFC accomplish our mission long-term.

Highland Friendship Club formalized its 501c3 status in 2004. All donations to the organization are tax deductible, and any documentation you need to gain full tax benefits from your financial donations will be happily provided.

Yes, Highland Friendship Club has received operating and program grants from the City of St. Paul, The Bremer Foundation, the Saint Paul Foundation, the Schulze Foundation, the Lanners Family Foundation, The Gordon and Margaret Bailey Foundation, and Highland Bank, to name a few.

Absolutely! HFC has professionals who regularly donate their time such as artists, photographers, business people and more. Please use the Contact Us form to share your ideas with HFC!

Yes! HFC hosts several special events annually that you are welcome to join! Please visit the Special Events page above to learn more.