2024 Top-Rated Nonprofit

Assistance League of Northern Virginia

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Education, Elementary & Secondary Schools, Food, Human Service Organizations, Human Services, Literacy, Nutrition, Philanthropy, Philanthropy, Charity & Voluntarism Promotion

Mission: To transform the lives of children through community programs that feed, clothe and educate students.

Community Stories

66 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

1

AlyCre Client Served

Rating: 5

02/28/2024


ALVN Charity is a vital lifeline for our Title 1 school community, providing essential support to students and families in need. Through their monthly food bags, new shoes, clothes, and Build a Library program, they ensure our students arrive at school ready to learn and thrive. Their holistic approach addresses both basic needs and educational enrichment, empowering our students for a brighter future. ALVN's recognition of unique challenges, like providing Hygiene kits for older students, demonstrates their commitment to holistic well-being. Additionally, their provision of grocery store gift cards eases financial strain and fosters dignity among families. ALVN Charity is not just an organization; it's a beacon of hope, making a profound difference in the lives of our students and embodying the spirit of compassion and empowerment.

Best,
Garfield Kindergarten Team

2

mlsandler Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

02/23/2024

We are so fortunate to have the exceptional support from the Assistance League of Northern Virginia at our school. They generously provide our students and families with food bags, clothes, gift cards and so much more. Without their support so many students and families would be without things they need to survive. It is so comforting to know that we have clothes, shoes, and food that we can provide to anyone in need. That is a comfort to everyone in our community! We are all very thankful and grateful to the Assistance League of Northern Virginia to always be here for all of us!

2

jlwinner Client Served

Rating: 5

02/23/2024

The Assistance League of Northern Virginia has helped our students tremendously! Our students love the weekly food bags ALNV provides us and they know that they will have food for the weekend with them. ALNV also gives each and every student a book once a year, to help build their own personal library, sometimes these are the only books the students have at home. The joy our students get by their donations, without always knowing where it comes from, is amazing and we are so blessed that ALNV helps us in all the ways they do.

3

hwkosatka Client Served

Rating: 5

02/23/2024

I work at a title 1 school where our students are always in need. The Assistance League of Northern Virginia has always provided valuable resources such as clothing, shoes, and educational materials that make a difference not only in our students educational progress but also assists with their overall well being and health. Without amazing organizations like this, many of our students would not be available for learning.

2

sclunasco Client Served

Rating: 5

02/23/2024

ALNV has provided so much for our students. The students know they are cared for by the community. They enjoy getting food bags on Fridays and a new book in the fall. The families are appreciative of the gift cards at the holiday time. Due to the support, our students basic needs are taken care of so the students can focus on learning.

2

emolsson Client Served

Rating: 5

02/21/2024

Dear Assistance League of Northern Virginia,

We wanted to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for your incredible support of our classroom. Your generosity in providing books, clothes, and weekly food bags means the world to us.

Thanks to your kindness, our students have access to essential resources that make a real difference in their lives. The books spark their imaginations and fuel their love for learning. The clothes ensure they can come to school feeling comfortable and confident. And the weekly food bags provide much-needed nourishment, along with a sense of security and care.

Your support goes beyond the tangible items. It shows our students that they are valued and supported by a caring community. Your kindness inspires us all to work harder and dream bigger.

Thank you for making a difference in the lives of our students.

With deep appreciation,
3rd Grade Teachers

2

Jojosparkles Client Served

Rating: 5

02/20/2024

ALNV packs and delivers monthly food bags to our students and each week I feel happy to know that the bags assist families with food for at least one nice meal and ingredients for other dinner dishes!
I have had several little ones take a pair of new shoes/ boots and gloves/hats in the winter. At our school, we have a beautiful closet of extra items for our little ones to take when they are in need. I am very appreciative of having so many items available for our students.
So, to the Assistance League of Northern Virginia, we THANK YOU very much. You are helping students and providing items so that teachers don't have to!! So again, Thanks so much!
Best,
Ms. Julianne Green

2

Anisa16 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

02/20/2024

The assistance league of Northern Virginia has been incredible! They go above and beyond for our students by providing shoes, clothes, and food bags. We are so grateful for this nonprofit organization.

2

eahorner Client Served

Rating: 5

02/20/2024

Our FCPS 2nd grade team is so thankful for the Assistance League's support of our small Title 1 school. Our families really benefit from and depend on your generosity. Getting food bags at the end of the week support our families with meals outside of school. Thank you so much!! Our students were so excited to choose a book this winter as well!

2

kemango Client Served

Rating: 5

02/20/2024

6th grade elementary students are not only leaders at their school but also facing a lot of excitement, change, and challenge as they prepare for middle school. The support, supplies, and guidance provided through the Assistance League of Northern Virginia is a vital organization for our students so they can feel prepared, loved, and supported. In turn, they learn the importance of caring, sharing, and community to pass along as they continue to grow. Thank you!

2

Acjrjj21 Client Served

Rating: 5

02/20/2024

We are so grateful to the Assistance League of NOVA for their support! Our students benefit greatly from their HUGE hearts. They deliver monthly food bags to our students, they provide new shoes, clothes, They build a Library program where every student gets a new book and 5th and 6th grade Hygiene kits. Additionally, they provide us with grocery store gift cards for families in need during summer months and during the holidays.
Our community thanks you!!!!

1

J_S_W Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/28/2023

Assistance League of Northern Virginia is a wonderful organization that helps provide opportunities and meet needs for underserved children and families across the area. Key programs are focused on providing assistance to multiple Title 1 elementary schools in Fairfax and Prince William Counties as well as Alexandria.

During the school year the organization provides non-perishable food bags to help students who are food insecure over the weekend. Member volunteers have focused on expanding the scope of this program to meet additional needs and provide emergency assistance by making grocery gift cards available. Similarly the organization has continued to expand the new clothing items it provides to schools to meet basic needs. Several students this past school year were thrilled to receive brand new outfits.

Assistance League also does amazing work to help young students in 1st, 2nd and 3rd grades to develop their reading skills through one on one reading support on a weekly basis. And the organization has also been able to expand the number of new books provided for students through two separate programs.

As a member of Assistance League for a number of years, it is very rewarding to be part of these activities and to see the growth in support the organization is receiving from the community at large.
Many individuals support our initiatives with time and contributions, and we are extremely proud to have the ongoing support of several companies and organizations that have consistently helped enhance our efforts. Please join others in the community to help Assistance League continue expanding the help we provide to those in need.

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2

Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/30/2021

Assistance League of Northern Virginia partners with several Title 1 elementary schools in Northern Virginia to provide programs supporting students at those schools. The non-profit's programs include Weekend Food for Kids, New Clothing for Kids, Literacy for Kids, and HUGS Pillows. Like many organizations, Assistance League has had to revise its program services due to the pandemic, but the organization has been successful in making modifications to continue to meet needs while schools were closed. Modifications included providing grocery gift cards rather than Weekend Food bags, and expanding book distributions when reading programs had to be discontinued. The organization also purchased new clothing during the past year to meet needs identified by school personnel.

Assistance League's all volunteer members are dedicated to meeting the needs of children. The members are always enthusiastic and creative in finding ways to meet those needs, and work together collaboratively. Assistance League is an inclusive organization with many opportunities for volunteers to give back to the community. The organization is always interested in having additional members who share the commitment to helping children in local communities.

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2

vmgaiani Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/20/2023

I have been a member of ALNV for 7 years. Every member is there to share there love of children and helping others. Members come from all walks of life and with that brings with them a multitude of skills to make our varied projects doable. As the other members have described we work with helping the needs of others with food, clothing, toiletries, hugs, reading and books. Wow!

Previous Stories
4

Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/08/2022

Assistance League of Northern Virginia was the volunteer organization I joined six years ago when I retired. The members are always striving to do more for the community we serve. The membership are energetic and fun.
A more recent fund raiser to generate funds to support our projects is working with "GotSneakers?". With their direction we collect used sneakers and they either reuse them or recycle them to save them from land fills and we earn money.
If you are looking for a volunteer organization to join I recommend ALNV. It is an organization where you could find a place to help others and be part of our community.

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1

lpbaumgartner Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/20/2023

I joined this welcoming group of volunteers 2 years ago, and I love the range of opportunities to help the community that they provide. I always enjoy dropping off new clothing for students at our local elementary school and seeing the smiles and waves from the students and the gratitude of the staff. All of our outreach programs are so well organized that it is a pleasure to work among these friendly volunteers, and you really feel like you are making a difference in the community.

2

NancyT-VPPhil Board Member

Rating: 5

08/18/2023

There are few times in your life when you meet a group of people who are so driven to help the children in our schools. I have been fortunate to meet this group -- The Assistance League of Northern Virginia. I taught Middle School American History for 33 years in New York, so I am well aware of the needs of children in our society. Even though AL is the only chapter in Virginia, and one of the smallest chapters in the United States, I am amazed at the dedication and efforts of our volunteers. AL strives to meet the basic needs of the children through our food,clothing,and literacy programs, but it also strives to preserve the dignity of each child as they begin their school day. This is a monumental task, as children face so many more obstacles in their lives today. It is an honor to be a part of this wonderful group of volunteers. For them -- it is all about the children!!!!

Nancy Treanor
VP Philanthropy ( Nutrition and Special Programs)

2

kleighty0621 Donor

Rating: 5

08/14/2023

Assistance League of Northern Virginia has been an incredible group of volunteers that are truly making an impact on improving the lives of the children and their families in our community. I have been so impressed with the programs that the organization is able to organize and the commitment that the board members, volunteers and donors provide to ensure that these programs are a success. Thank you to all the folks that are making this a better community for all of us and truly proud and humbled to be able to donate to them on a regular basis. Thank you for all your hard work, efforts and commitment to creating a better environment for those in need.

2

Linda Canan S. Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/13/2023

I have been a member of the ALNV since 2016 and I am so proud of the work that we do to help underprivileged students in our communities. We provide clothes, shoes, toiletries, books and our Weekend Food for Kids (WFFK) program. WFFK provides over 1,600 food packages monthly to students so they have food on the weekends. In the summer, we provide grocery gift cards to the schools so that the Counselors can distribute these to their students. We are a small but mighty group of volunteers and we are always looking to expand our membership.

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3

Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/28/2020

I have been a member of the Assistance League of Northern VA for almost 5 years and have been so impressed by the dedication, caring and generosity of our members. The ALNV has touched and bettered so many lives of elementary students by providing food, clothing, shoes, books, tutoring but also compassion and love. The looks on the children’s faces is priceless.
I am also happy to be associated with an organization that has been able to continue impacting our schools by thinking outside the box during the Covid pandemic. We have adjusted our WFFK (weekend food for kids) program by providing GIANT gift cards in lieu of the weekend food packages that we are unable to provide while the schools are closed. We are also providing books and toiletries to families. We are anxious to provide much needed clothing and shoes as soon as the schools allow us.

2

clb46 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/12/2023

As one of the founding members of this chapter of Assistance League, a national nonprofit, it has been a proud moment and such a joy to witness the dedication and determination of it's members over the past 20 plus years. At the beginning, our outreach was limited due to membership numbers and funding. Over the years we have expanded exponentially and made a significant positive difference in the lives of children in need.

We have expanded from working with one school in the area of literacy with only funding from small yard sales to reaching a number of Title I schools providing not only literacy opportunities but clothing and also Weekend Food for Kids. Our funding outreach has garnered a number of significant grants with support from local businesses to include several Chambers of Commerce.

Please check out our website for a full accounting of our accomplishments. www.alnv.org

2

kathywj Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/11/2023

I have been a proud member of Assistance League of Northern VA for several years. It has been a wonderful experience working with so many very dedicated members who care tremendously for helping children in the elementary schools we serve. The members all work tirelessly and conscientiously in whatever program they take part to make it successful as measured by goals outlined in our strategic plan. Besides helping children in many ways, it has been a joy making friends and working alongside these members and our much-appreciated, community volunteers

The children we serve have extreme needs and Assistance League helps to provide them with much-needed food on the weekends, new clothes such as winter coats and hats, etc., toiletries products as part the schools' hygiene programs, brand new books to those who've never owned one before and tutoring to help those who are struggling with reading or who need a boost to get them to the next level.

To support our programs, there's always an ongoing effort to raise funds whether it be through donations of money or goods through our Right Gift and Amazon Wish List opportunities or special campaigns or our large spring fundraiser at a local country club.

Please take a look at what we do, consider donating to our programs and attending our events. If you're looking for a volunteer opportunity and a way to give back to the community, it's a wonderful way to serve!

Previous Stories
1

Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/08/2022

I have been a proud member of this nonprofit for 8 years. It's been a wonderful way to serve with an extremely dedicated group of men and women who care deeply about helping the neediest children in our community. Children who would otherwise go hungry on the weekends or who need clothing so they can attend school or who have never owned their own book are provided with food, new clothing, books and other necessary items such as toiletries. There is tremendous need for helping these children who attend the Title 1 schools we serve in Northern VA.

Since Assistance League is an all-volunteer organization, every dollar that's donated goes toward supporting these children. Please consider donating to the organization's worthwhile mission of transforming the lives of children through their community programs!

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2

cheerscj Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/11/2023

I have been a volunteer with the Assistance League of Northern Virginia since 2016. My first introduction to them was helping at a Weekend Food for Kids (WFFK) packing event. I fell in love with the program and became a team member the following year. This program provides six area Title One schools with prepackaged supplemental food bags for children to take home on the weekends. I can’t say enough positive things about the programs and the volunteers that run these programs. The volunteers are extremely dedicated and pour their hearts into the food and literacy programs. We receive such positive feedback from the school administrators, parents and the children that benefit from these programs. It is truly a privilege to be part of this wonderful organization and to work alongside others who share my passion for children. It has also been extremely educating as to the extensive need that exists. Participating in these programs makes me feel as if I am truly able to make a difference for these kids.

Previous Stories
1

Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/19/2022

I have been a member of the Assistance League of Northern Virginia for six years, and have enjoyed being a part of the Weekend Food for Kids Program (WFFK) for five. This is an amazing group of men and women who volunteer their time and resources to make wonderful things happen for children in the community. It’s a group that has fun, works hard, and gets lots done! I recommend the Assistance League of Northern Virginia to those looking for a place where they can truly make a difference.

2

meltill General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/11/2023

This organization tirelessly brings books, needed items, clothes and more to children in schools! They see a need and strive to meet it and are creative in their approach and ideas! Great organization filled with people who care!!!

2

BetsyBrand Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/10/2023

This organization may be small in size, but it punches way above its weight! All of our members are incredibly involved and committed to serving the Title I schools we serve, through donations of clothing, toiletries, books, and food, and it also provides one-on-one reading assistance at several schools. All of these donations and volunteer work help hundreds of children throughout the year be better prepared for their education. ALNV is very goal focused, but our members have fun with each other, and I really enjoy their friendship and camaraderie as we volunteer at numerous events during the year. I'm very proud to be part of an organization that accomplishes so much good and helps so many children and families in the Northern Virginia area.

Previous Stories
3

Board Member

Rating: 5

07/08/2022

My passion is to help kids learn to read and read well throughout their lives. When I retired, I looked for organizations that worked directly with children, and Assistance League was one of the very few that had programs working with students in public schools. I joined immediately, and am so happy I did. We were able to read with students this past school year, and it's been such a rewarding experience. The students are so appreciative of the extra attention and building their skill level. ALNV does much more than just tutoring, however, and I'm now a big fan of the Build a Child's Library program (every child in select elementary schools gets to select an age-appropriate book to keep, sometimes their very first own book), Weekend Food for Kids, and the adorable Hugs pillows program. The volunteers at ALNV are wonderful, caring, and fun, and I'm so happy to have found a new community with a fabulous mission and purpose. Next year, we hope to provide even more tutoring and book programs. Come volunteer with us!

2

ddiconti Board Member

Rating: 5

08/08/2023

I feel privileged to serve with the rest of the Assistance League members as we help close the gap for the students in Northern Virginia who attend Title I schools. Many of these students need clothing that is appropriate for their size and the season, including basics like sneakers, coats, socks and underwear. We also provide toiletry items along with a hygiene program, tutoring, food packages for the weekends, and Hugs pillows stuffed with comfort and needed items.
One of the best things about ALNV from a member's perspective is that there is great diversity in program offerings so folks who are involved or are considering getting involved have many programs to choose from that fit their interests as well as the amount of time they can commit. Some members join to tutor one hour a week. Some help pack food, clothing or toiletries as they are able. Some bring their skills to running a special fundraiser or initiative. There is truly something for anyone who wants to lighten the load for the students in Northern Virginia who have needs that are unmet.
We directly see the impact of meeting these needs and the joy it brings to the students. When they are comfortable in their clothes, feel empowered to learn and have nutritious food in their stomachs, they are set up to take advantage of their education and make their lives what they want them to be.
I joined this organization in 2021 after I retired from a corporate job. I'm always asked by friends if I miss earning an income. I always respond that I am paid tenfold in "feels".

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2

Board Member

Rating: 5

07/08/2022

I am just completing my 1st year with ALNV and am even more inspired than I was when I started. There are men and women in this organization who give hours a week and others who give hours a month and we are all making a great difference for the children in our area. I am impressed with how many lives are touched because of how organized and devoted the ALNV members are. If something needs to get done, it will. Children will be fed, clothed and supported in their literacy, among other supports. The joy and fulfillment I experience as a member is much greater than the effort I put in! I came in knowing nothing of our processes and was fully supported by longtime members as I found my footing. I couldn’t recommend this organization any more!

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2

lvttch73 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/05/2023

As a relatively new member of ALNV, I cannot say enough good things about this organization. My career was spent teaching young people, and this organization helps me to stay in touchwith my passion for helping children. My husband, Dr. Joseph Mancusi, and I recently attended a fabulous Literary Luncheon sponsored by this nonprofit. The exhibits were enlightening and engaging in such a way that any observer would walk away wanting to know more about this organization. We were delighted to learn more about the execution and controlling of expenses at the national level. We were assured that ALNV sponsored activities are able to help lots of children most in need. The auction was very well executed, and the book authors were enlightening and enjoyable. We were grateful to be among so many wonderful people with whom to share our thoughts and to know that our monetary donation would be directed toward changing lives.

2

cheryl.k.brunner Board Member

Rating: 5

08/01/2023

I am so proud to be connected with Assistance League of Northern Virginia. It is truly a wonderful organization. One day I delivered a special summer outfit to a little girl in need at one of the schools we serve. When she saw the bag of clothing she received (shorts, top, underwear, socks, and shoes) she gave me such a big hug that she almost broke me in half! LOL! Most members have the experience at least once during their time as members with us. Some are fortunate and have it once a month.

Would you like to experience bringing joy to a child? Join us. Help us make a difference now and in the future by feeding, clothing and helping to educate children in need in Fairfax County, Prince William County and the City of Alexandria. Membership is open to all.

2

pthompson892 Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/29/2023

I’m proud to volunteer with Assistance League of Northern Virginia. This 501 (c) (3) nonprofit helps hundreds of at risk children in 10 Title I elementary schools in Northern Virginia. We provide food for the weekend to those students who receive free or reduced price lunch during the week but are food in secure on weekends. We provide new clothing as requested by the schools and tutor reading in one on one sessions with students who need help mastering this critical skill. We also provide new books through book fairs and birthday books for students.
I’ve volunteered over 13 years in each of these programs, and continue to do so because I feel I am contributing to helping these children succeed in school and be able to attain a better life as a adult.

2

nlspinosa Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/28/2023

Assistance League of Northern Virginia is a caring group of volunteers who help to provide food, clothing and literacy for elementary school children in need. They are committed to helping children in many ways and are always looking for opportunities to serve.

Previous Stories
1

Board Member

Rating: 5

09/28/2021

Assistance League of Northern Virginia helps provide at risk children in Northern Virginia with food, clothing and literacy. The volunteers work with the counselors at 11 area schools to determine the needs of the students.

Through Weekend Food for Kids (WFFK), bags of non-perishable food items are packaged and delivered to targeted children to take home from school on weekends, when having enough to eat might be a concern. During the covid pandemic, when schools were providing remote learning, the Assistance League was unable to pack WFFK but began providing Giant Food gift cards instead, thus helping to meet the needs of hungry children.
Through their literacy program, ALNV provides reading tutoring to first grade students at two schools. They have also held book fairs, where all students In the school are able to come and choose a book to keep. Sometimes ALNV donated books have been distributed by the teachers to each student.

In addition, ALNV volunteers make Hugs pillows, which are heart-shaped pillows with a pocket, and then add a book, stickers and a beanie baby, before delivering them to children going through trying times.

Assistance League of Northern Virginia volunteers continue to work hard to try to help meet the needs of the most vulnerable children in our area. I’m happy to be a part of such a caring organization.

2

dckevit Board Member

Rating: 5

07/28/2023

After retiring from a career of teaching special education students, I took my time choosing a volunteer opportunity that matched the things I wanted to continue to do. I knew I needed to have hands-on opportunities where I could actually witness the impact of my time, caring and teamwork skills. I have found that spot with ALNV. I get to see the faces of children as they receive what is sometimes their very first book of their own. I get to stand together with other volunteers and pack food that gets delivered to needy children so that they have food on the weekend, I get to help sort new clothes that will be given to children who need it most...the list goes on, but it's important to note that while I'm doing these activities, I'm doing them with others that I can plan with, sweat with and laugh with. The AL is very social for those that seek time with others. As a matter of fact, some of my favorite friends from teaching are also members so we get to see each other on a regular basis. It's a win-win, wonderful opportunity and I'm so pleased that I chose ALNV as my retirement "hobby"! You can be as busy as you like! Join us!!

2

CBonnell Board Member

Rating: 5

07/28/2023

I joined the Assistance League of Northern Virginia earlier this year and have been very impressed with all of the ways that the organization helps the children in Northern Virginia. I have helped pack weekend food for kids, toiletries for students, summer books for students, at build-a-library events at elementary schools, with one-on-one reading with 2nd graders, and with one-on-one letter teaching as part of a Bridge to Kindergarten program. The recipients of these programs are always so appreciative - it is very heart-warming! I am attaching a picture of the Thank You note we received today from the Bridge to Kindergarten program with the students' thumb prints at the bottom. The Assistance League is a great opportunity to help others!

2

GMGlenn Board Member

Rating: 5

07/20/2023

Assistance League of Northern Virginia (ALNV) is a fabulous all-volunteer nonprofit. ALNV has partnered with local low-income Title 1 schools providing elementary age students with food, clothing, books, tutoring, hygiene kits, and more. It is a wonderful way to get involved in our community. All funds raised to support our programs are done so by generous donors, awards/grants, fundraisers, and sponsors/partners. We would love your support!

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2

Board Member

Rating: 5

06/22/2022

I love volunteering in my community! Assistance League of Northern Virginia (ALNV) has partnered with local Title 1 low income elementary schools. ALNV provides food, clothing, tutoring and books to children in need. If you are looking to help the youngest members of our community, please contact ALNV at info@alnv.org to learn how you can get involved! ALNV would love for you to become a member! Learn more at www.ALNV.org

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2

gwgeorge General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/03/2022

Our community has partnered with Assistance Leauge of Northern Virginia for multiple events. The ALoNV has brought a sense of community to our functions and helped guide us in our events to bring a philantropic aspect to our neighborhood. The members are professional, efficient and overall lovely to work with.

3

ALNV Volunteer Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/13/2022

I have been an ALNV volunteer for five years and I am continually impressed with everything that is accomplished to meet the needs of children in our community. This all volunteer organization is totally dedicated to its mission and its members work hard to feed and clothe the children in the schools that ALNV supports. Please consider donating to or joining this outstanding nonprofit.

2

Mslx2 Donor

Rating: 5

07/11/2022

Proud to support the ALNV through their child focused community programs!

2

seifertkg3 Donor

Rating: 5

07/10/2022

We have truly enjoyed being a part of fundraisers and events that we can help contribute to the success of Assistance League of Northern Virginia. The team is so dedicated and works so hard to ensure that children and families in our neighborhood are taken care of. The board members and volunteers are amazing and truly care about ensuring that every detail is covered whether they are preparing a fundraiser, planning and executing a book drive or volunteering with children and their families. This is a wonderful organization and highly recommend becoming a volunteer, donor or member!

2

sl5104 Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/10/2022

I am proud to volunteer with this wonderful organization. Although the membership is fairly small, it really punches above its weight in terms of impact and effectiveness. From providing literacy services and free books to toiletry kits, clothing and food for students and their families, our group focuses on assisting the neediest and youngest members in our community. A really commendable group of volunteers works relentlessly to fulfill our group's vision and keep our services targeted and available. It is deserving of everyone's support.

2

jsutton98 Board Member

Rating: 5

07/08/2022

I have volunteered with Assistance League of Northern Virginia for over five years. It is a pleasure to work with such dedicated members. There is outstanding leadership for our many programs that give back to the local school children. Assistance League provides many school children with weekend food, new clothes, new books, tutoring and comfort items. Assistance League also provides Baby Bundles for new arrivals at a local clinic. Volunteering with this wonderful group is so rewarding and I highly recommend the journey.

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2

Board Member

Rating: 5

09/22/2021

I have been a member and volunteer of ALNV since 2017. ALNV offers outstanding programs that give back directly to the children in our local community. They provide weekend food for kids at 6 elementary schools. New books for kids, clothing, shoes and toiletries for all 11 of our elementary schools. ALNV has a program called Operation Hugs Pillows, beautiful handmade heart shaped pillows with a pocket in which a beanie baby, activity books, crayons etc. are placed and given to small children. Handmade baby blankets/hat sets are also donated for new born babies at a local clinic. Please consider donating and/or volunteering to this very worthful non-profit organization.

2

Aamoth1 Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/08/2022

ALNV is amazing. This relatively small organization punches way above its weight, making a positive difference for the children in our community. ALNV may be best known for its Weekend Food for Kids program, under which volunteers from around the community gather to pack food packages to give to children at school to take home for the weekend. Even during COVID, ALNV supported this mission through the distribution of food cards. ALNV also is a constructive force in the literacy arena, distributing books and providing reading assistance in the schools.
I have so enjoyed working with the other members of this group - they are fun, dedicated, and effective. The group is well-organized and is supported by numerous organizations and private individuals in our community. Please consider adding your support in whatever way works best for you!

2

CKBRUNNER Board Member

Rating: 5

06/23/2022

I am a member of Assistance League of Northern Virginia and the new Vice President of Resource Development. Additionally I have been a Founding Member of the Board of Trustees of Greater Prince William Casa, President of the Prince William County Bar Association, and have served in various capacities for Opera Roanoke (Fundraising Committee), GFWC Woman's Club of Manassas and a myriad of other organizations. Never have I seen a more dedicated group of people who all pitch in to accomplish a single goal: Transforming the lives of children through community programs. Nine months each year, many of us work together with our Corporate Partner, Dominion Energy, to pack $8500 worth of food to be distributed to children in need in 8 Title 1 schools in Fairfax and Prince William Counties and the City of Alexandria. During the remaining 3 months of the year, we distribute gift cards for food. Our goal is to reach 5% of the children in need in each school we serve. We also distribute new shoes, clothes and books as well as tutoring children in some of the schools we serve.

Assistance League of Northern Virginia is totally transparent about everything it does -- from the amount of money we spend on each child to the number of volunteer hours we donate annually (which is in excess of 6,000 hours annually) to the amount of money we raise and how we use it. Our books are professionally audited so we know what we tell you is correct.

In short, Assistance League of Northern Virginia, is absolutely the best organization with which I have ever been associated. I positively love what I do for my second career.

3

Ms_Susan Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/29/2021

I am so proud to work with this small but mighty organization! Even as the pandemic made it more difficult to provide our traditional services and to raise the funds that are needed to support those services, members did everything they could to keep assistance flowing to the children and schools that we support. The knowledge that the pandemic only made these needs more acute kept everyone committed as we continued to provide books, clothing, grocery store gift cards, and other items even as the means of distribution became more constrained. This is a wonderful group that does a lot of good work in the community and I am happy to be part of their efforts.

2

ALNV Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/28/2021

Ever since I began volunteering with Assistance League of Northern Virginia six years ago, I’ve been impressed with how much this relatively small group of volunteers is able to accomplish to help children in our area. In addition to making sure that schoolchildren have food on weekends, ALNV provides them with clothing, shoes and toiletries, and also provides tutors to help the children learn to read, among other programs. Donations to ALNV are used to fund its programs; ALNV is an all-volunteer organization and very little money is spent on fundraising or expenses. Moreover, ALNV volunteers are very dedicated, as evidenced by the way they quickly figured out a way to continue helping children when schools shut down due to the pandemic. They also are a nice group of people to work with; I would not hesitate to recommend joining!

2

Nn3prtfs Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/28/2021

Plain and simple the ALNV is a fantastic non profit, providing vital services in the local community of Northern VA. I've had the pleasure of working along side this group of dedicated volunteers making a difference in children's lives. My Rotary Club - Dunn Loring Merrifield Rotary has supported ALNV equally with donations and volunteer support. There are many quality non profits in the DC Metro area, but ALNV is at the top of my list. They continue to need the support of individuals and businesses. Make a difference by volunteering, donating or joining ALNV. Great work to all involved!

3

DarleneCooke Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/28/2021

I have been a volunteer for Assistance League for over 15 years, and have seen their influence on the lives of children in our area grow exponentially. Even in the face of a pandemic , assistance for those needing food, clothing and assistance with literacy never wavered. As the amount of help has grown, so has the generosity of members of our community, who donate in order to make our programs sustainable. There is always more to do, and volunteers make all the difference, and theAssistance League volunteers are up to meeting the challenge.

2

PAnwyll Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/28/2021

The members of Assistance League of Northern Virginia are dedicated to our children in need. Not only do they provide food assistance, but emotional assistance as well with hug pillows and new blankets and clothes for newborns. New clothes are provided, books and tutoring. It is an honor to work with these members!

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3

Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/28/2020

The commitment from our members is impressive. Even during the pandemic they are always looking for ways to help our children in low income schools.
They offer assistance with food, literacy and clothing. The Weekend Food For Kids program to ensure the children have food on the weekend. The children and families love the Build a Child’s Library program and book fair of donated books. I extremely enjoy tutoring first graders. Members are amazing, creative and dedicated.

2

boodah Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/31/2020

Assistance League of Northern Virginia has been making a difference in your community for the last twenty years transforming the lives of children through our community based programs. Our philanthropic programs provide food, clothing and tutoring to children in Title I elementary schools in Fairfax and Prince William counties and the City of Alexandria. Our biggest program is in partnership with Dominion Energy to provide around 1800 food bags to children on the weekends. With the closing of the schools due to the pandemic, we now purchase grocery gift cards and collaborate with the school counselors in their distribution.
My desire to find a tutoring opportunity brought me to Assistance League of Northern Virginia. I have tutored, one-on-one, first graders to improve their reading comprehension and language development. Book fairs held at several schools have been most successful. Watching the smiles of the children select and share their books with each other has been most gratifying. And then, they get to take them home.
I am continually impressed with the enthusiasm, competence and dedication of the people of this organization who have chosen to give of their time to give back to the community.

3

MarilynECB Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/22/2020

Assistance League of Northern Virginia is a small but highly effective organization that has been doing amazing work in this area for more than 15 years. In normal times, it provided needed food to students on weekends and provided new clothes and shoes, grooming aids, and one--on-one reading help to students at 11 schools in Northern Virginia. It also provides hand-made baby blankets and hats to new mothers, and pillows stuffed with a small stuffed animal and activity books to comfort pediatric patients at a clinic. ALNV members have been laudably creative in finding new ways to help those most in need during the pandemic. Assistance League, a national organization, is one of the best philanthropic organizations you’ve never heard of.
Marilyn

3

epparks Board Member

Rating: 5

10/02/2020

Assistance League is a wonderful way to give back to our community. I have especially enjoyed the opportunity to help children enhance their reading and language arts skills through our tutoring program. Spending time with a child one on one and watching that child gain confidence in their abilities is so gratifying. It is also so fun to watch children picking out their very own book during our book distribution fairs. They are thrilled when we tell them they can put their name in the book since so many of these children have no books of their own. I also really enjoy the camaraderie of this group and look forward to our meetings and social events.

4

Nancy6106 Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/28/2020

One of the greatest rewards of volunteering has been with the ALNV. Even though I have only been a member since 2018, I am always amazed at the dedication, work ethic, and support this chapter in Northern Virginia has given to children in over 11 schools. If you visit our website, you will see the various programs that have been given to Title I students. Even with the current pandemic, our members are still finding alternative ways to reach these children.
It is my pleasure and honor to be a small part of this organization.
Nancy T.

3

assist Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/31/2012

I found the Northern Virginia Assistance League to be rewarding, satisfying and fun while benefitting those we serve. The original Founder Ann Banning's philosophy "To act as a friend at any and all times to men, and women and children in need of care, guidance and assistance, spiritually, materially and physically." Today Assistance League is a National Nonprofit organization that puts caring and commitment into action through community-based philanthropic programs. In 2011 the Assistance League of Northern Virginia touched the lives of 9,750 individuals; elementary school children,newborn infants, and victims of sexual and physical abuse. Philanthropic Programs include: Operation School Bell- Weekend Food For Kids-New Clothing for Kids-Literacy-Pillows Program- Assault Survivor Kits-and our Lullaby Program. www.northernvirginia.assistanceleague.org

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