(Posted 2026 September)
By Danielle Waite, Befriend-A-Child mentor
This summer, my mentee MJ and I had the opportunity to attend a trip to Kings Dominion with the Befriend-A-Child Mentoring Program. We all traveled together on a charter bus, sponsored by Barber Holdings, which honestly made the outing feel like a group excursion. The bus ride gave everyone a chance to talk, laugh, and build connections before the day officially started.
When we arrived, the park had not opened yet. So, we took a group photo, did bathroom runs, and listened to kids plan out which rides they wanted to go on first. When the park opened, we were some of the first people inside!
Overcoming Fears
Our small group spent the first half of the day riding rides, then would later move to the water park. MJ has a bit of a fear of heights, but I was proud of him for stepping outside of his comfort zone and trying one of the rides with everyone. Even though he was nervous, he still participated, and moments like that matter.
Later in the day, we headed over to the water park section, which ended up being MJ’s favorite part of the trip. He absolutely loved it. Seeing him laugh, relax, and genuinely enjoy himself made the day meaningful for me too.
Making Connections
One thing I especially appreciated was seeing him connect with other kids who attended his school. It gave him another layer of comfort and belonging during the day. He was able to socialize, joke around, and share the experience with kids outside of the normal school day.
The program’s generous donors, the Young family, sponsored food and hydration bands for everyone attending, and honestly, those wristbands were lifesavers. Thankfully, because of this thoughtful donation, we did not have to worry about food or drinks. Sometimes this type of small detail makes all the difference in helping everyone feel cared for.
Creating Memories
This was MJ’s third time visiting Kings Dominion, but it was my very first time there. I had no idea of everything the park had to offer. In addition to the rides, there were live shows, photo opportunities, restaurants, games, and the entire water park. It felt like there was always something new to discover around every corner, just not enough time.
By the end of the day, the trip was about more than amusement park rides and water slides. It was about shared experiences, meeting other mentees and mentors, creating memories, and allowing kids the opportunity to simply be carefree.
I also learned an important lesson myself: next time, I am bringing a bathing suit!
I am grateful to Befriend-A-Child and everyone involved in organizing opportunities like this for mentors and mentees. Experiences like these may seem simple on the surface, but they create moments of joy, confidence, connection, and belonging that can stay with a child for years to come.
Sometimes mentorship looks like serious conversations and guidance. Other times, it looks like water slides, bus rides, and cheering someone on as they face their fear. And both matter deeply.
Thanks to all who made this an amazing outing!
A volunteer mentoring program for over 40 years, BeFriend-A-Child provides opportunities for children to experience the transformative influence of a caring adult. If this interests you, learn more about the program or apply online to volunteer.
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).