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.

Seb Gonzalez and Buddy

May 1, 2025

I have been matched with my buddy since the beginning of my sophomore year, and since then, he has changed my life in ways I didn’t expect. Being part of a mentorship program, I knew that I would be faced with situations that would force me to grow as a person. But, over my two […]

Sebastian and Buddy

April 7, 2025

I joined Athletes for Kids in the spring of my junior year, and it has turned out to be one of the most meaningful things I have done in my life. I went into my mentorship hoping to give back to my community and create a special relationship with my buddy. I have gotten so […]

Sean and Buddy

March 4, 2025

I joined AFK in the summer before my junior year, and it’s become something I look forward to every weekend. When I first joined, I didn’t know exactly what to expect but I wanted a fun and engaging relationship. I knew it was a great fit when I met my buddy for the first time, […]

Meskie and Buddy

February 1, 2025

Joining Athletes for kids has been such an amazing experience and I couldn’t be more thankful for the new friendship I have gained. My buddy is such a joy to be around, and I always look forward to our weekly girl debriefs over our lives. Whether it’s baking cookies, playing games or getting our nails […]

Mount Si mentor Logan and his buddy

Logan and Buddy

January 2, 2025

Joining Athletes for Kids was one of the greatest decisions of my life, and has become such a beneficial part of my life. Throughout my time with my buddy, we’ve built a lasting friendship that has taught me skills and life lessons that I can carry on throughout other parts of my life. We always […]

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 […]

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