Testimonials

At the heart of the AFK mentorship program are stories. Stories of kindness, acceptance and inclusion. Of mentors, buddies and of their friendship—which has a lifetime impact.

AFK mentor Lauren and her buddy

Lauren and Buddy

December 4, 2024

My experience with Athletes for Kids has been one of the most rewarding and joyful parts of my life. Mentoring my buddy has allowed me to build a meaningful connection with an incredible young person while witnessing her grow in confidence and joy, which has been truly heartwarming. Whether we’re playing games, sharing stories, or […]

Shane and Buddy

November 1, 2024

I’ve been meeting with my buddy for almost two years now! The program has not only given me a new friend but also the chance to understand the life of someone who struggles differently than I do. Our relationship has grown so much over time, and I have learned to be flexible, patient, and appreciate […]

Hadley and Buddy

October 15, 2024

Athletes for kids has been an incredible experience for me and has taught me so much about friendship and love. Every single week I look forward to the time I have with my buddy. It is the time where all the other stress in my life goes away, and I can be present and have […]

Blake and Buddy

September 1, 2024

I’ve known my buddy for almost a year now and I have gained so much from our relationship. I love watching him grow and work through challenges that may be difficult for him. I now think constantly about how I need to set a good example for other children so they can look up to […]

Hudson and Buddy

August 5, 2024

During my almost two years of mentorship, I have gained a whole new perspective on the impact of friendship and the value of giving time to others. The two hours spent together each week is something I look forward to and I always wonder what fun the meeting will bring and the smile on my […]

Carson and Buddy

July 1, 2024

Athletes for kids had provided me with a new meaning of friendship and family. As a mentor it has been a privilege to work with kids who have all sorts of disabilities. It has provided me with experiences and relationships I would have never thought I’d have, allowing me to grow and learn throughout the […]

Nikesh and Buddy

June 1, 2024

I’ve been matched with my buddy for almost a year and a half and every time I see him it’s the highlight of my week. When I get to his house, he is always excited to see me and ready to go play outside. One of our favorite activities is making our own YouTube videos […]

Brooke and Buddy

May 3, 2024

I joined Athletes for Kids in my sophomore year of high school, and it has been a very meaningful experience that I will forever cherish. I knew my buddy and I would be a perfect match when I saw that she loved music and dancing. I always look forward to listening to Taylor Swift in […]

Ryan and Buddy

April 29, 2024

I joined AFK in the spring of Junior Year, and it has always been something that I look forward to every weekend. Coming into the program, I wanted a relationship that was fun, energetic, and action packed. When I met my buddy, I knew that it was a great fit because we connected right away. […]

Payton and Buddy

March 1, 2024

I joined Athletes for Kids in the middle of sophomore year, and it has been one of my favorite parts of high school. I remember when writing my mentor bio, I tried my best to be extremely detailed because I really wanted to connect with my buddy. I remember writing about my favorite movies and […]

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