I’ve been an Athletes for Kids mentor since my junior year, after hearing about it from two of my best friends, and I knew it was something I wanted to do. When I became a mentor, I knew a little about what to expect, because my friends told me, but the program has far surpassed every expectation I had coming into the program.
Every week I get to hang out with my buddy for two hours, and we always have a blast. I can confidently say that as much as this mentorship has positively impacted my buddy’s life, it has done the same for me. I always look forward to hanging out with my buddy, no matter what we are doing. Whether we are riding bikes or playing board games, it’s nice to step back and enjoy every moment. Mentoring my buddy has taught me a lot, and I hope that we can both continue to learn and grow together as we keep making memories with Athletes for Kids.
Mentee Parent
Parker Power: Super Strength, Super Heart
When I asked my 8-year-old son what makes his Athletes for Kids mentor so special, he said:
“Parker’s superpower is making people feel happy and brave. He’s smart, super funny, and makes everything more fun!”
With college application season underway, we thought it’d be fun to take a twist on the article — so together, we turned his words into a “college letter of recommendation,” typed by Mom but powered by my son’s imagination.
Dear College,
I’m eight years old and I would like to share my thoughts with you about an applicant. Parker is my Athletes for Kids mentor, but I think he might secretly be a superhero. Here’s my proof:
• Super Strength: He carried my baseball bag, two bats, and my basketball on the hottest day of the year.
• Super Speed: He can run five miles before breakfast.
• Super Bravery: He helped me build a huge snowman without gloves!
• Super Patience: He doesn’t get mad when I change the rules halfway through a game.
• Super Kindness: When I hit the ball into the blackberry bushes, he just smiles and says, “Nice power!”
When Parker’s around, even boring days turn into adventures. His biggest superpower isn’t running fast or being strong — it's making people feel important. That’s what I think colleges should care about most: who makes others better. Parker does that every single time.
Sincerely,
A very happy young boy. (Age 8)
Note from the parents: Parker’s mentorship with Athletes for Kids is a shining example of what connection and consistency can do for a child’s confidence. Thank you, Parker, for showing up — not just as an athlete, but as a hero in everyday life.