Mentoring Program
Our mentoring program empowers young minds by fostering strong connections within our community and helping them thrive academically through one-on-one relationships with mentors, focusing on reading, math, and relationship-building.
After School Mentoring Program
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At Belong!, our after-school program centers on building strong, supportive mentoring relationships that empower elementary school students to grow emotionally, socially, and academically. Our caring mentors create a warm, safe, and encouraging environment where students feel seen, heard, and valued.
Each child is paired with a dedicated mentor who provides one-on-one support tailored to their individual needs. While academic development in reading and math is included, our priority is the mentoring relationship—offering consistent guidance, encouragement, and a trusted adult who believes in each student’s potential.
Mentors work with students on reading and math skills, but the deeper goal is connection. Whether helping with phonics and reading comprehension or exploring math through games and creative activities, mentors serve as role models who foster confidence, resilience, and a love of learning.
At the heart of our program is a commitment to emotional development and positive social growth. Mentors support students in building healthy relationships, developing self-esteem, and learning how to navigate challenges with empathy and determination.
Our program offers more than academic help—it offers belonging. Through these meaningful mentor-student relationships, children thrive in ways that reach far beyond the classroom.
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For quick answers to frequently asked questions, check out our FAQ section here. If you have additional questions, feel free to reach out to us at 571-325-8689 (TTY 711). Your questions are important to us, and we are here to provide the answers you need.
Our Reading One-to-One initiative is a powerful mentoring tool embedded in our after-school sessions. It pairs volunteers with students to develop reading skills through one-on-one interaction using BOB books and phonics strategies. Beyond reading improvement, these sessions create opportunities for mentors to build lasting, confidence-boosting relationships with their students—encouraging not just literacy, but lifelong learning and connection.
Consider Becoming a Mentor
We’re always looking for compassionate, committed volunteers who want to make a real difference in a child’s life. As a mentor, you’ll meet weekly with a student to provide guidance, encouragement, and support. Yes, you’ll help with reading and math—but more importantly, you’ll be a consistent, caring presence in a child’s life.
Mentoring with Belong! means being a listener, a cheerleader, a role model, and a friend. Through games, shared stories, and simple conversations, you’ll help children develop not just skills, but confidence, curiosity, and a sense of belonging.
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A Meaningful Commitment
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To foster strong mentor-student relationships, we ask our mentors to commit from September 2025 through mid-May 2026. Spending just 2 hours each week—around 1 to 1.5 hours with your student and 30–45 minutes planning—can create a lifelong impact.
Training and Support​
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We’re here for our mentors every step of the way. Belong! provides comprehensive training, helpful tools, and ongoing guidance to ensure mentors feel equipped, supported, and appreciated throughout their journey.
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Ready to Make a Difference?​
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Explore our mentoring roles and join us for an orientation to learn more. When you’re ready, complete our volunteer application, or reach out to Karen at karen@belongvienna.org with any questions. We’d love to have you be part of this meaningful and life-changing experience.
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With support from Fairfax County Consolidated Community Funding Pool.