Testimonials

I have been matched with my buddy for more than a year, and I have really enjoyed all the time we have spent together, making memories and building our friendship. I decided to be a mentor, because I value making connections with people and saw this as a chance to develop a special and meaningful […]

I have been a part of Athletes for Kids since September of last year and meeting with my buddy is always one of the highlights of my week. Every week we play basketball – lots and lots of basketball. Rain or shine, I can always count on an intense game of hoops on the court […]

Hanging out with my buddy is one of, if not my favorite part of my week. We love building Hot Wheels tracks as well as domino-placing cars and cool circuit kits. He especially loves going to swim and dive down to search for toys or climb on my shoulders as I run around the pool. […]

I have been matched with my buddy for over a year now. It’s been amazing to be able to see the growth in his social skills and abilities. My buddy is always eager to meet, has a smile on his face, and is willing to try new things. Going into the match I knew we […]

“Joining the Athletes for Kids program has exponentially increased my character development through the last three years of my life and all that has to be because of the relationship I have built with my buddy. I’ve had the privilege to literally watch my buddy grow before my eyes and the memories we have made […]

“I couldn’t help but feel a little nervous the first time I met my buddy. These feelings were quickly washed away when I saw his smile. Now, when I get to his house, he greets me with his hands in the air and a wide smile. While he may need an occasional reminder to say […]

This past year and a half have been an incredible experience. I cherish every moment I get to spend with my buddy whether we are outside, inside, or on Zoom learning about each other. Seeing his growth as a person inspires me to do better. The gratitude and appreciation that he shows every day gives […]

It is crazy to me how I have been matched with my buddy for almost two years, the time flew by so fast. I came into this mentorship thinking I was going to help my buddy grow, but instead it has been him teaching me! What started with a giant smile on a Zoom screen […]

I have been matched with my buddy for nearly a year now and I can’t remember a time when I didn’t have fun hanging out with him. His energy and excitement every time we meet, continues to amaze me. Although, we have had a lot of fun going to the pool or watching a movie, our […]

I have been matched with my buddy for almost three years now. As much of an impact I have had on him, he has had just as great an impact on me. We always enjoy walking to parks and playing there. The way my buddy meets me at the door always makes my day. He […]