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BEST Kids is thrilled to celebrate the incredible connection between Paris and Jalynn, who have been matched for just over seven months! Right from the start, Paris and Jalynn clicked, diving into fun adventures together and creating lasting memories. From cheering at the Washington Commanders football game to celebrating at the Mentee Appreciation Awards, their journey has been full of laughter, growth, and excitement.
Paris brings dedication and warmth to her mentorship, going above and beyond to ensure Jalynn has a safe, supportive, and joyful space to thrive. Her hands-on approach and commitment make a world of difference in Jalynn’s life, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the bond they’re building. We’re excited to watch their mentorship flourish and see all the wonderful experiences they have ahead. Thank you, Paris, for being such a positive force in Jalynn’s life!
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BEST Kids is thrilled to announce that Natalie and Caron have been matched for 5 wonderful months! Building a strong relationship takes time, and the chemistry between them is truly inspiring. Caron, who doesn’t easily open up, has found a patient and dedicated mentor in Natalie.
Natalie’s unwavering support and her commitment to ensuring Caron participates in all BEST Kids organized events have fostered a unique and special bond between them. For her incredible dedication and the positive impact, she’s made, Natalie is being honored as our Mentor of the Month for July. Congratulations, Natalie!


What’s your fondest memory from spending time with your mentee?  Caron and I had a blast at a GSoul (K-Pop) concert in June—a first for both of us!


Which was your favorite Peer Group?  The BK organized HBCU event at the MLK Library was great! It gave us the chance to connect with other mentors and mentees in the program and to learn more about Best Kids programming.


What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced since becoming your mentee’s mentor? Upon first meeting, people often tell me their whole life stories—maybe I have one of those faces. :) With my mentee, I’m reminded that building relationships takes time.  


Hobbies: I am madly in love with DC and enjoy finding new places to explore—including nature, museums, cultural events, and art. And fortunately, Caron is a great adventure partner!
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BEST Kids is excited to spotlight Celina, who has been recognized as the Mentor of the Month for her outstanding commitment to BEST Kids Mentoring.

Just five months ago, Celina was matched with her mentee, Saniya. The pair quickly formed a strong bond, spending nearly every weekend together exploring art exhibitions and enjoying the seasonal cherry blossoms at the Capital. These shared experiences have not only deepened their connection but also enriched Saniya’s understanding of culture and community.
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Celina's dedication extends beyond their weekend adventures. She ensures Saniya participates in all of BEST Kids' events, providing consistent support and fostering an environment where Saniya can thrive. It’s this level of commitment that sets Celina apart as a mentor and why we are proud to honor her this month.

Congratulations and Thank you, Celina, for your incredible work and the positive impact you make on Saniya’s life and our community. Keep inspiring!

1. What’s your fondest memory from spending time with your mentee?
We explored the National Arboretum together during cherry blossom season. Despite living close by, this was her first time there. While enjoying the scenery, we chatted about the outdoors and discovered we both share a love for hiking. I was very proud that she was up to the challenge of walking all over the arboretum to see the different types of cherry blossoms.


2. Which was your favorite Peer Group?
We attended a C3 event on DC Statehood. I felt proud of how much my mentee spoke up in a room full of older kids and participated in the activities.


3. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced since becoming your mentee’s mentor?
Trying to find activities to get her to unplug from her phone, live in the moment, and enjoy wherever we are.


4. What are some of your hobbies/things you like to do in your free time?   
I like to play tennis, read, try new restaurants, and bake.


5. What is your current Job/Career and what is something you enjoy about your work?
I work in TV news and I like it because every day is different!
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Christina and K’Nyah have been matched for just over a month, but their connection goes back even further! After meeting in a previous mentorship program, they chose to continue their journey together through BEST Kids—and we’re thrilled to have them as part of our community.  
In these few weeks, K’Nyah has already jumped into the fun, attending horseback riding and our Annual Back to School Event with Christina by her side. Their bond is growing, and they both love participating in our programming and spending time together.  

We’re incredibly grateful to Christina for being such an amazing mentor and role model for K’Nyah. Here’s to many more adventures to come!
Q&A With Christina
1.What’s your fondest memory from spending time with your mentee?
My fondest memory is when K’nyah reached out to me and confided in me about something she was experiencing. I am grateful she felt comfortable enough to share her feelings with me.

2.Which was your favorite Peer Group?
Thus far, we’ve only been to two Peer Groups. While we enjoyed both, K’nyah appeared to have enjoyed the Back-to-School Celebration more and her excitement brought me joy. K’nyah engaged in a financial literacy session, CPR training, painting, and so much more. In addition to those things, she received a $50 gift card from DTLR, as well as a $30 Visa gift card, which we used to purchase her a much-needed pair of shoes for school.

3.What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced since becoming your mentee’s mentor?  To date, I’ve not faced any challenges.

4.What are some of your hobbies/things you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, spending time with K’nyah, volunteering at my church and in the community, traveling, reading/learning, physical activities, bowling, listening to live music, and crocheting.
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Justyce and Josalyn have been matched for almost a year in BEST Kids, and their bond has grown incredibly strong! Together, they have participated in a variety of events, creating countless memorable experiences. Justyce admires Josalyn's artistic and fashionable spirit and loves seeing her express herself.
Justyce has been a vital support in Josalyn's college journey, helping her prepare as she gets ready to leave high school. They have visited schools together and worked on her SATs, making significant progress.

From attending community events to engaging in sports and trying out new activities, their weekends have been filled with fun and adventure. Thanks to Justyce's encouragement and support, Josalyn has become more extroverted and confident, thriving as the best version of herself.

Congratulations to Justyce for being our Mentor of the Month and making a lasting impact on Josalyn's life!


What’s your fondest memory from spending time with your mentee?
-My fondest time with my mentee is honestly every time we hang out or get to talk on the phone. If I had to recall one particular time, I’d say it was the first time we ever hung out, got ice cream and toured the botanical gardens in DC - mostly because of how instantly we clicked and how it felt like we had been sisters our whole life.


Which was your favorite Peer Group?
-My favorite peer group was the outdoor cookout in 2023. That event made me realize how protected and safe Josalyn felt around me. We got to do arts and crafts and walk around the field and bond more.


What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced since becoming your mentee’s mentor?
-My biggest challenge I’ve faced is learning when to not be too overbearing and/or protective. I’ve done pretty well so far (outwardly) but I often overthink about things in my head as it relates to her because I just want the best for her.


What are some of your hobbies/things you like to do in your free time?
-I love doing creative things in my free time like painting, writing, or singing but I equally love being outside and getting active, like working out, hiking, and/or swimming.