(Posted 2025 July)
The BeFriend-A-Child Mentoring Program traded textbooks and goal-setting sessions for roller coasters and funnel cakes at Kings Dominion — and the day was unforgettable.
Designed as both a celebration and a chance to strengthen bonds outside of the usual routine, the trip brought together mentors and mentees for a well-earned day of laughter, connection, and summertime fun. For many of the children, this was their first time at a theme park, and the excitement was matched only by the joy of sharing it with a trusted mentor.
“This wasn’t just about rides and games,” said program coordinator Tiffani Peguese. “It was about creating memories and reinforcing the trust and support that our program is built on. Mentoring is more than just guidance — it’s showing up, sharing experiences, and being present.”
The event marked the close of a busy school year filled with regular check-ins, academic support, and emotional encouragement. As the summer begins, the trip served as a reset — a reminder of the joy and growth that mentoring brings, not just to the mentees but to the volunteers who walk alongside them.
Thank you to our longtime donor and previous Befriend mentor, Tim Barber of Barber Holdings, who continued his annual tradition of paying for the charter bus to transport everyone in the program to and from Kings Dominion. If you are interested in partnering with us to support other activities for our mentors and mentees, contact us.
The BeFriend-A-Child Mentoring Program is currently seeking compassionate, dependable adults to join our team of mentors. Volunteers commit to a two-year relationship, spending at least eight hours each month with their mentee. Scheduling is flexible, with most mentoring time happening on weekends.
If you’re ready to be the reason a child smiles, grows, and believes in their potential, visit our website to learn more and apply today.
This article posting is part of The Volunteer Post Newsletter for current and potential volunteers, sponsors and donors interested in supporting children and families in crisis. Learn more about Fairfax County Department of Family Services' Volunteer & Partner Services Program (VPS).