Think about an adult who made a difference in your life. A scout leader, a coach, a youth group facilitator, or a neighbor. Someone who saw you, listened, and helped you believe in what was possible. In many cases, that person was a volunteer. Someone who chose to give their time and attention. That kind of attention is powerful. It builds confidence, strengthens community, and changes lives, often in ways we don’t fully realize until years later.

Mentoring may sound daunting, but Volunteer Alexandria (VolALX) helps you connect with opportunities in and around Del Ray at organizations that handle the prep work, making it easy for you to become that inspiring person for a young Alexandrian. You only need to commit to showing up, providing your time and attention.

For a one-stop overview of upcoming mentoring options, The Alexandria Mentoring Partnership hosts their annual Open House on Tuesday, July 14th at Beatley Central Library. This drop-in event, held from 5:30 to 7 pm, provides details about eight programs; you can meet staff and find a match that fits your interests and availability. Most programs run during the school year and begin training late summer/early fall. Here’s a snapshot of upcoming mentoring needs across Alexandria. Visit VolunteerAlexandria.org/mentoropps to learn more and to sign up.

Have an hour or two available during the weekday? Join Alexandria Tutoring Consortium. You’ll be paired with a k-2nd grader at Alexandria City Public Schools. Volunteer tutors receive training and each session has a written guide – no prior experience needed. You’ll see real growth in your student through the school year.

Is your Monday evening open? Community Lodgings provides group mentoring for middle school students for 1.5 hours on Monday evenings.  Participants focus on life skills, boundary setting, and conflict resolution.

Is a phone or video chat easiest?  SPARK the Journey propels young adults to college and career success through mentorship and community. Have phone check-ins weekly and meet 1-2 times a month on your schedule (or at SPARK sponsored events).

Eager for a book club that empowers girls? Spitfire Club mentors join after-school sessions that engage 1st-5th grade girls in reading books featuring strong female protagonists. Mentors assist during the sessions, but all planning is handled by Spitfire staff.

These four are only half of what’s available.  Unable to attend the Open House? No problem.  Visit alexandriava.gov/mentoring to complete a mentor interest form.

There are other upcoming volunteer opportunities in the area. Register for these and more at volunteeralexandria.org. For example, Distribute Food for the Community: On Friday, June 12, join the Department of Community and Human Services to sort and hand out groceries.