A Vienna nonprofit organization spreading love through education and service in our Northern Virginia community
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide compassionate mentorship to underserved children and youth in our community, sharing God’s love and fostering personal growth, academic achievement and a sense of belonging.
Our Vision
A loving and inclusive community where all belong and have equal opportunities for social, spiritual, educational, and economic success.
Our Programs and Services
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Belong! News & Events
March 2024
Two Days of Enrichment at Belong
During spring break, Belong arranged two days of enriching activities for our mentees. Activities included exploring Lincoln's Cottage and the Lincoln Memorial, with a scavenger hunt and historical learning, followed by a specialized reading session for students needing extra support. These experiences reflect Belong's dedication to holistic learning beyond the classroom, aiming to shape brighter futures for students. Thanks to staff and volunteers for organizing these activities!
December 2023
Exciting Partnership to Unveiled in 2024
Belong is thrilled to announce new partnerships! Starting in January, our Tuesday and Thursday afternoon mentoring program will now be hosted at Vienna Baptist Church (VBC), strategically located to better serve local children in need.
February 2024
Belong and Social4Good Unite. An Unforgettable Evening of Connection and Gratitude
Belong extends heartfelt thanks to Social4Good (S4G) for hosting a memorable evening bringing together 52 mentors and mentees. The event was filled with heartwarming moments, laughter, and creativity. Special recognition goes to S4G project leaders Melissa Elam Zelinger and Brigit Orozco for their dedication. A standout feature was a poster board where children proudly displayed pictures with their mentors, symbolizing the strong sense of community. Belong is deeply appreciative of S4G's impactful work and looks forward to more moments strengthening community bonds.
January 2024
Expanding Horizons: A New Mentoring Site at George C. Marshall High School!
Exciting news! We're happy to launch a new mentoring site at George C. Marshall High School, reaching out to children from Freedom Hill Elementary School. This addition, fueled by your support, showcases the powerful impact on our community's growth. Join us in creating pathways for success for our youth. Your ongoing support is our catalyst for success!
See how we put your donations to work
86
K-8th students currently receive weekly after-school tutoring during 2023 - 24 school year
62
Students participated in our 2023 Summer Academic and Enrichment Program
$10k
awarded in scholarships to low-income high school students to attend community college
80
volunteers currently serve as mentors to K-8th grade students in 2023-24 school year
Testimonials
--Parent of summer programming student
I have seen a big change in Rafael* since he went to your summer camp. He has learned a lot more English. Thank you very much for teaching him! May God give you many blessings.
*Name has been changed to protect privacy.
--Parent of reading clinic student
"I was thrilled to hear her teacher from Cunningham Park say that [my daughter]had made great progress in writing and reading...Thank you for helping our community to progress."
–A Belong Volunteer
Volunteering at the after-school tutoring and the enrichment camps at Belong! has been a rewarding experience. The kids are excited and eager to improve their math and reading skills through fun activities. It has been gratifying to see the joy and confidence in the children as they master a math problem, create a beautiful work of art, or cook a healthy snack.
The Belong! team is creative, dedicated, organized, caring and an immense value to the Vienna community. They have worked hard to successfully provide a safe stimulating atmosphere for the children to grow educationally and emotionally. If you are interested in a rewarding flexible volunteer organization join Belong!
