By Marion Brunken
Alexandria, VA – Volunteer Alexandria (VolALX) is a dynamic 501(c)3 nonprofit that inspires, mobilizes, and connects people to serve the Alexandria community. Since its founding in 1980, businesses and associations, groups and individuals, young and older, people with different abilities and skills, and of different backgrounds are inspired and connected to activities that strengthen our community.
Connecting with the community has become increasingly important as people young and older are still experiencing isolation and anxiety. The need to connect with others is vital for our health.
One in four high school students in Northern Virginia had symptoms of recent clinical depression. And one in ten had seriously contemplated suicide in the past year. (The Shape of Youth Mental Health Report, 2023, Community Foundation for Northern Virgina)
At the same time, the number of people willing to volunteer has decreased nationally, and we call on everyone to consider donating a few hours every week or months to help other Alexandrians.
There is something for everyone! Connect with a child by becoming a tutor and/or mentor, teach ESL, read with children, deliver and/or serve meals, bag groceries, call a homebound senior, and much more. View these opportunities and more at www.VolunteerAlexandria.org.
Being engaged in the community through volunteering is good for the body, mind, and soul. It offers meaningful opportunities that are vital for both individuals and the community.
“Everybody can be great — because anybody can serve” – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Visit VounteerAlexandria.org for more information on all programs and services.
Did you know…VolALX is seeking a Nonprofit Program Manager. Visit volunteeralexandria.org/careers to learn more.
Volunteer Opportunities:
Youngins in Progress (YIP) Soccer Club engages boys in the 10th and 11th grades in. Volunteer tutors are needed in the following subjects: Biology, Geometry, World History 1, and English 9.
The Alexandria Tutoring Consortium (ATC) seeks volunteers to tutor struggling K-2 readers in the 2023-2024 school year. ATC matches you with an Alexandria City Public Schools student and provides training and weekly lesson materials.
Lutheran Social Services seek volunteers who can spend time with refugee families helping them acclimate to their new homes. Activities vary but tend to focus on being a trusted friend, answering questions about the community, English language practice, searching for jobs, sometimes going on outings, and other methods to help give the refugees the skills and resources to be self-sufficient and thrive.
William Ramsay Elementary School is looking for volunteers to support our math intervention program during the school day during the 2023-24 school year. Volunteers will be asked to select time slots to work Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm, with small groups of K-5 students.
