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
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
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
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
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 […]
Logan and Buddy
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 […]
Lauren and Buddy
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
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
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
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
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 […]