Alexandria Police Mentor Middle School Boys Through Innovative Pilot Program
ALEXANDRIA, VA-On Thursday afternoon, inside Men’s Wearhouse at Potomac Yard, a group of sixth and seventh-grade boys practiced tying ties and choosing professional attire with Alexandria police officers by their side, not in uniform, but as mentors. It was a powerful moment in a pilot program that’s about much more than clothing.
The event marked the eighth session of the Alexandria Initiative on Mentoring (AIM), a 9-week youth development program launched in March by the Alexandria Police Department (APD) in partnership with George Washington Middle School. The initiative pairs police officers with young boys for weekly sessions that aim to build trust, self-confidence, and life skills through mentorship entirely outside of officers’ paid work hours.
Chief of Police Tarrick McGuire, who spoke with Zebra Press following his swearing-in ceremony last year, said the program reflects his broader vision to rebuild bridges between the community and law enforcement. “This is about restoring traditional relationships where police and citizens look out for each other not just when laws are broken, but every day,” McGuire said.
Launched in March 2025 in partnership with George Washington Middle School, the AIM program pairs officers with students in a mentorship setting that focuses on positive youth development, responsible decision-making, and long-term personal growth. Sessions have included field trips, life skills workshops, and honest conversations with community members including formerly incarcerated individuals about life choices and consequences.
“I remember wgen I was in school, we had these kinds of events with police officers and other kinds of mentors, And more than anything, it got me curious about how they got where they did, what fueled their ambitions,” said Officer Johnny Larios. “Just enough of that curiosity can change someone’s life trajectory. My goal now is to be present, to listen, to plant the right seeds, and to guide without imposing anything.”
The Dress for Success event was the eighth session in the program and one of the most memorable so far, according to Lieutenant Ali Asonglefac, the program coordinator. “Most of these kids are used to t-shirts and sneakers,” Asonglefac said. “We’re opening a whole new world for them teaching workplace etiquette, confidence, and showing them what’s possible.”
Each session begins with a student-led creed: I am guided. I am growing. I am capable. I strive for excellence in my home, school, and community. The creed sets the tone for a holistic approach to mentoring that includes tracking grades, attendance, and social-emotional growth. “If their grades drop, we figure out why. Just like I would for my own kids. Also every AIM session starts with a meal, one of many intentional choices designed to show the boys they’re supported in every way. “We make sure they’ve had the right nutrition before we start,” Asonglefac added.
Principal Jeanette Vinson of George Washington Middle School praised the initiative. “This partnership builds trust,” she said. “We want our students to see police as guardians, not people to fear. That starts with relationships.”
The program is voluntary for both students and officers, many of whom give their time outside of work hours. “Even after a long day, ending it with these kids makes it all worthwhile,” Asonglefac said.
Supported by the Alexandria Police Foundation, Wegmans, and Men’s Wearhouse, the AIM program has sparked interest citywide. Organizers plan to continue supporting this first cohort over the summer and expand the program to new students in the fall.
For Chief McGuire and his department, AIM is just the beginning. “When a vision comes to life, it’s powerful,” he said. “And this is only the start of what we can achieve together.”
SEE ALSO: Campagna Center Names Edith Hawkins New CEO
