The bottom line is that mentoring works. BEST Kids Mentoring Program is guided by the belief that all children are talented. Through one-on-one volunteer mentoring, extensive training, staff support, and experiential learning-based Peer Groups, we encourage our youth to discover and develop their unique skills and abilities. Beginning with children as young as six and continuing, as needed, until adulthood, BEST Kids works to enable youth to develop a positive sense of self, to acquire teamwork and group social skills, and to become productive members of society.

2019 ART of the Matter


​We are excited to present ART of the Matter, our annual art showcase and silent auction benefiting our mentoring program for youth in the Washington, DC area foster care system, on September 24th at City Winery DC! 
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ART of the Matter celebrates a wonderful collection of art that includes pieces created by our very own mentees! We recognize that art is a catalyst for positive change; it fuels the imagination and harnesses the creativity in each of us.

Come to see the fruits of our learning, all while enjoying delicious food, drinks, live music, and of course, bidding on fantastic silent auction items! We will also use this opportunity to recognize our annual award winners for their contributions to the agency and the community at-large.

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Our Impact

Every aspect of our programming is designed to reach positive outcomes for the children and youth we serve including academic achievement, social and emotional well-being, the avoidance of risky behaviors, and the development of independent living skills. Here are a few statistics from our program surveys completed by youth, mentors, and caregivers:

Social & Emotional Wellness

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Academic Achievement

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Avoidance of Risky Behavior

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Our Stories

Brett & T

Brett and T were able to build a strong bond by discovering mutual interests with one another. They used these common interests as an outlet for fun and as the foundation of a strong, long-lasting relationship that has seen T through many transitions and difficulties.

Lyle & Michael

Michael is the very first mentee to be matched at BEST Kids. Although he has seen many ups and downs over the years, he's always had his mentor Lyle at his side. After spending his entire life in foster care, Michael has now aged-out; however, he still can depend on Lyle to navigate early adulthood and self-sufficiency. 

Whitney & David

Whitney was a former foster youth herself who made a point to give back to her community through mentoring. She's been matched as David's mentor since 2014. Together, they've experienced tons of fun and a tremendous amount of growth.