All Locations: Mentoring & Leadership Development

The Virginia Peninsula Chapter provides a variety of educational, informative and uplifting programs for the whole family. Our programs teach the necessary leadership and development skills to assist our mentees and their families in realizing and maximizing their full potential.

4-H is the youth development education program of Virginia Cooperative Extension. 4-H is rich with learning experiences where young people partner with caring adults and volunteers in a fellowship unlike any other program available to youth today. Through 4-H, young people are encouraged to participate in a variety of activities that emphasize 4-H's "learning by doing" philosophy of youth development.

4-H is the youth development education program of Virginia Cooperative Extension. 4-H is a community of young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills. 4-H, the largest comprehensive youth development program in the nation, educates young people, ages 5 to 18, through a variety of experiential techniques that encourage hands-on, active learning. Many learning groups meet regularly and summer camps are also scheduled.

Residential 4-H Camps—programming events for youth ages 9 to 13 in which campers stay overnight (5 days, 4 nights).

Special Interest 4-H Camps—programming events focusing mainly on a specific project or theme area. There is a large variety of special interest 4-H camps available. Different age group requirements are offered for these camps.

Cloverbud 4-H Camps—programming events for youth 5-8 years of age. Youth must meet the minimum age of 5 between October 1 and September 30, and must not be older than the maximum age.

Free youth athletics and performing arts for kids. Open to kids in other areas but located in Chesapeake. Currently offering basketball and drama club.

Football, Track, Cheer, Mentorship & Community Outreach Program. 757 Colts Organization is a 501c3 developmental program based in Chesapeake, VA that was designed to empower, encourage, motivate boys and girls within and around our community.

Home of Va. Beach's Best Summer Camp and Afterschool program. Our mission is to change the lives of every child that enters our facility. It start with learning our culture, which is... We Are... "THE BEST", Hard Work... "PAYS OFF" and We Never..."GIVE UP".

American Heritage Girls is a Christ-centered character and leadership development program for girls 5 to 18 years of age.

For 11th and 12th grade young women. The program is designed to be a presence of caring individuals who provide support, advice, reinforcement and constructive examples which help young women from all circumstances succeed. The one-on-one partnership will encourage young women to develop to their fullest potential, and will help to develop their own vision for the future. Commitment to the program through community involvement and volunteer hours will provide these young women the opportunity to receive a $1,000.00 scholarship upon graduation.

​Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, professionally supported matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), ages 6 through young adulthood. We develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of youth in our communities.

​Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, professionally supported matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), ages 6 through young adulthood. We develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of youth in our communities.

Black BRAND is the Black Chamber of Commerce for Virginia’s Hampton Roads and Dan River Regions. Our mission is to promote group economics through professional development and community empowerment.

Activities for youth ages 6-18. Education and Career Programs, Health & Life Skills, Character and Leadership Programs, Art Programs, Sports, Fitness and Recreation Programs

Activities for youth ages 6-18. Education and Career Programs, Health & Life Skills, Character and Leadership Programs, Art Programs, Sports, Fitness and Recreation Programs

Through the Virginia Beach CASA Program - Mentoring program for foster youth ages 14 and up, to develop skills, such as relationship building, problem-solving, capacity building, and persistence to help develop a comprehensive, holistic, and measurable plan to guide and support their transition to self-sufficiency and living an independent and interdependent life.

An instructional hub for STEM learning driven by team building and collaboration allowing opportunities for students and people of all ages, abilities, and disciplines to learn by designing creative solutions to real-world problems.

Teacher Professional Development Programs - Monthly machine training and curriculum design sessions
Student Fabrication Experiences - Aligned with industry certifications in partnership with community colleges
Community Nights - Family-friendly experiences offering “make and take” projects
Summer Camps and Saturday Workshops - Hands-on experiences with digital technology and machining
“Start Your Own Business” Workshops - Designing and prototyping an idea for future business opportunity
Digital Fabrication Badging Program - Encourage students to learn different skills and concepts
Shipyard Youth Mentoring Program - In conjunction with NNS’ educational outreach program SEEKnns

Camp Launch provides eligible students in grades 7-10 with unique academic and enrichment opportunities. Campers are recruited from school districts throughout Virginia to participate in this two-week residential program with courses in STEM, Writing, and Personal Development.

Camp Orbit is a two-week extension of Camp Launch and is designed to provide 5-6 Camp Launch alums with an opportunity to participate in hands-on research and mentorship with a W&M or VIMS professor.

4-H provides “learn by doing” opportunities for youth to receive “hands on” experiences through work or activities. 4-H is for all youth, both boys and girls between the ages of 5-18. Summer Camps Available!

The Citizen Police Academy for Youth (CPAY) provides teenagers - ages 14 to 17 - an inside look at local law enforcement through a variety of subjects pertaining to police work. The youth are instructed by police officers, civilians, other city Department agencies and community partners.

Ages 12+. Developing youth into responsible citizens and tomorrow's aerospace leaders. CAP is the volunteer, nonprofit auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. Its three missions are to develop its cadets, educate Americans on the importance of aviation and space, and perform life-saving, humanitarian missions.

One of the BSA's premier programs, offering citizenship, character, personal fitness, and leadership for youth in grades K to 5.

The Colonial Virginia Council, BSA is the largest youth (boys and girls) organization on the Peninsula and in the Southside of Virginia; serving the communities of: Newport News, Hampton, Poquoson, Smithfield, Suffolk, Surry, Williamsburg, Yorktown, Emporia, Franklin, Lawrenceville, and the counties of Brunswick, James City, Gloucester, Greensville, Isle of Wight, Mathews, Southampton, and Sussex.

This program connects boys and girls ages 10-20 with mentors, businesses, and agencies within their communities to help them discover future career paths.

The Colonial Virginia Council, BSA is the largest youth (boys and girls) organization on the Peninsula and in the Southside of Virginia; serving the communities of: Newport News, Hampton, Poquoson, Smithfield, Suffolk, Surry, Williamsburg, Yorktown, Emporia, Franklin, Lawrenceville, and the counties of Brunswick, James City, Gloucester, Greensville, Isle of Wight, Mathews, Southampton, and Sussex.

The traditional Scouting experience where boys and girls can have their share of adventure in the great outdoors. We offer these traditions by allowing our youth to volunteer in their community, boost their leadership skills through fun and exciting challenges, and create memories that last a lifetime. Scouts also get a chance to earn Scouting's highest rank, Eagle Scout. This program is available for boys and girls ages 11-17.

The Colonial Virginia Council, BSA is the largest youth (boys and girls) organization on the Peninsula and in the Southside of Virginia; serving the communities of: Newport News, Hampton, Poquoson, Smithfield, Suffolk, Surry, Williamsburg, Yorktown, Emporia, Franklin, Lawrenceville, and the counties of Brunswick, James City, Gloucester, Greensville, Isle of Wight, Mathews, Southampton, and Sussex.

A maritime program for boys and girls ages 14-20 providing a fun, safe environment for Scouts to learn, build friendships, and develop character while earning advancement. Coed program for ages 14-20.

The Colonial Virginia Council, BSA is the largest youth (boys and girls) organization on the Peninsula and in the Southside of Virginia; serving the communities of: Newport News, Hampton, Poquoson, Smithfield, Suffolk, Surry, Williamsburg, Yorktown, Emporia, Franklin, Lawrenceville, and the counties of Brunswick, James City, Gloucester, Greensville, Isle of Wight, Mathews, Southampton, and Sussex.

A youth-led program where Scouts experience positive mentorship and develop leadership skills in a fun, supportive environment. This program is coed ages 14-20.

The Colonial Virginia Council, BSA is the largest youth (boys and girls) organization on the Peninsula and in the Southside of Virginia; serving the communities of: Newport News, Hampton, Poquoson, Smithfield, Suffolk, Surry, Williamsburg, Yorktown, Emporia, Franklin, Lawrenceville, and the counties of Brunswick, James City, Gloucester, Greensville, Isle of Wight, Mathews, Southampton, and Sussex.

The Community Outreach Coalition is a nonprofit organization that ministers to low-income youth and children with disabilities through academics, athletics, and the arts. Childcare, preschool, before/after care, tutoring, summer camps, science programs, athletics, cooking classes, dance and step, performing arts, vocal lessons & more.

Our mission is to empower and equip individuals to identify and fulfill their life's purpose. Offering the Ladies with Purpose Mentorship Program for girls age 11-17.

DIVAS, Inc offers programs to foster positive behaviors to women and girls within the community. Individual and group therapy is available for girls, adolescent females, families, and millennial women. Mentoring for girls ages 5-17. Mentoring programs are open to ALL GIRLS regardless of race or socio-economic background.

ENDURING KEYS INC. exists to unlock the power and potential of youth in Newport News.

Excellence Girls Club, Inc. empowers young girls. Introduces them to positive women and positive ideas. Unlocks their potential. Helps them grow. From promising young girls, into powerful young women.

Our Mission is to empower and equip the next generation with practical life skills through mentorship. Youth are paired with 1-on-1 dedicated adults who care.

Our Future Agents in Training - Teen Academy program allows high school students an opportunity to get a comprehensive look into today’s FBI.

Scouting Programs and Summer camps, open to Girl Scouts and non-Girl Scouts ages 6 and up.

Through Mentoring - educating, empowering and promoting young girls to be the next generation ​of prepared leaders

4-H provides “learn by doing” opportunities for youth to receive “hands on” experiences through work or activities. 4-H is for all youth, both boys and girls between the ages of 5-18. Summer Camps available.

Hampton Hoops promotes healthy communities and fun in a safe environment. The program aims to improve social interaction, positive character building and provides leadership opportunities. The City of Hampton, and community leaders have partnered to create the program and hope to inspire participating youth to become representatives of a safe and secure community in Hampton and throughout. Ages 8-24.

We are a Youth Sports association based out of Hampton Virginia. Our Mission is to teach teamwork, discipline and leadership skills through sports.

Are you missing out on the after-school club experience? Do you want to learn more about leadership? Are you looking for leadership and volunteer opportunities to add to your college application? Come join our club and grow your leadership skills by planning and organizing field trips and volunteer opportunities. The sky is the limit for whatever the teens can plan as a group and we will guide them with the steps it takes to lead and organize events. Membership in the group will require attendance at our weekly meeting, participation at planned events, and following through on responsibilities. Adult leadership and support are 100% provided.

Inner City Innovations Foundation Provides opportunities for inner city children to participate in activities and outings such as camping, fishing, gardening, computer literacy and mentoring. Our goal is to provide opportunities for children to gain hands on experiences that will build self-esteem and provide mentoring resources.

Jack and Jill of American, Inc is a membership organization of mothers with children ages 2-19, dedicated to nurturing future African-American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving, and civic duty.

Students who are selected to participate in the JSA/Jefferson Lab High School Summer Honors Program are chosen on the basis of demonstrated skills and merit.

The Junior Commonwealth's Attorney Program, aimed at students who will be entering the seventh through 10th grades in the fall, provides an up-close look at law enforcement and court proceedings at the local and state levels.

Junior rescue is for teens in 6-12th grade. Participants are taught by EMS at a local EMS Station, real emergency medical services skills which are used daily on calls.

Programs offered by Ketchmore Kids include:

The Think Tank: This 6-week program is dedicated to teaching young people how their actions impact their behaviors.

Healing With Hip-Hop helps youth, ages 8-17 years old, heal from trauma and grief they experience when someone they know, or love, is hurt or killed by violence. We utilize music and various arts to assist us in doing this.

Triple P Parenting Program - Triple P stands for Positive Parenting Program. We provide Triple P parenting services that are evidence-based, accredited, and administered by trained providers. We offer different levels of Triple P so that we are able to meet a family’s unique needs, instead of using cookie-cutter services. We are able to serve parents who are court or DSS mandated to complete services, or parents who just want to strengthen themselves. We understand that children do not come with an instructional manual, and no parent is perfect!

The Literacy Lab’s Leading Men Fellowship creates opportunities for young men of color and increases representation in the field of education. Leading Men Fellows are young men of color who have recently graduated from high school and participate in a year-long, residency-style experience in which they provide evidence-based literacy support to pre-kindergarten students while receiving robust coaching and professional development and gaining valuable experience.

The City of Virginia Beach Mayor’s Youth Leaders in Action (MYLA) is a group of socially, economically and ethnically diverse middle and high school youth from across the city. The group was created with the belief that young people, if given the opportunity, could be meaningfully and successfully involved in making and impacting decisions that affect their lives.

Ms. April Ms. Hall specializes in behavior management for teens who are a bit more rambunctious than the average. A current Juvenile Corrections Counselor, she is available to help both juveniles and adults become the best version of themselves possible. Mentoring services, resume strengthening, employment services, financial literacy, and much more.

The Butterfly Girls are the young ladies (age 10-17) section of NCNW, Virginia Beach Chapter. They meet monthly and discuss many different topics, they give back to the community, and participate in fun events and activities.

The Navigators USA alternative scouting program was created to include everyone, and to help each person develop their fullest potential without discrimination. We aim to establish a world without prejudice or ignorance, and to treat every person with respect, no matter their race, creed, lifestyle, or ability.

NSTS provides afterschool and full-day summer programs for Norfolk youth (currently ages 13 — 16). Our activities for teens include sailing, boat-building, visual and performing arts, academic support, group projects, character education, STEM-skill development, hands-on field trips, and much more.

The Nicholson AAAA Charitable Foundation works through our community partners, direct giving and volunteerism to assist those in our community without housing, to provide nurturing and support to our local children in need and to support promotion of the Arts.

Self Defense and Life lessons for children ages 5 and up. Teens, Adults and Women Self defense classes. BJJ, Krav Maga. Teaching the Chuck Norris System since 1978.

No current troops listed in Hampton Roads - check link for updates.

Offering scouting for children as young as 3-years-old to adults. Each age level, or section, has a unique program where scouts can earn badges for challenging themselves, learning, and growing as a person and a member of their community.

Located on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, YMCA Camp Silver Beach is an overnight summer camp for ages 8 to 16, set on 151 amazing acres filled with forests, trees and wetlands and surrounded by the beautiful Chesapeake Bay. Campers enjoy beachfront and land activities like swimming, Alpine Tower, tubing, sailing, sports, games, performing arts, and more. This is true paradise—and best of all, it’s just for kids and teens (and, okay, some pretty awesome counselors, lifeguards and instructors too).

One-week and two-week sessions are available.
All inclusive overnight camp experience

Boxing (UGMMA) - Universal General MMA acknowledge the tough issues children and young adults face, both in and out of school. Our Stand Tall initiative is a program that focuses on building self-esteem. Universal General MMA builds self-esteem through exercise and mentor-ship. children with higher self-esteem are less bullied. Furthermore, mentored students with high self-esteem are less likely to get into a fight.

Law Enforcement Explorer - Law Enforcement Exploring is a hands-on program open to young men and women who have completed the 6th grade through 20 years old, interested in a career in law enforcement or a related field in the criminal justice system. The program offers young adults a personal awareness of the criminal justice system through training, practical experiences, competition and other activities. Additionally, the program promotes personal growth through character development, respect for the rule of law, physical fitness, good citizenship and patriotism.

After School - The Portsmouth Parks & Recreation in partnership with Portsmouth Police Athletic League (PPAL) After School Program is designed to provide Portsmouth’s youth with a safe environment while participating in a wide variety of educational and recreational opportunities.

PAL Summer camp is hosted by the Portsmouth Police Department. Includes Fun Daily Activities, Weekly Field Trips, Lessons on Crime Prevention, Bullying, and more. This camp is only open to Portsmouth residents ages 5-13.

We create and implement unique programming for students from underperforming schools and those within known gang & gun conflict zones. Our programs serve those (ages 7-19), who need skill building and are most susceptible to systematic low-income issues. We employ an innovative approach to combat those issues; with our T.R.A.I.N (Targeted Redirection of Anger Issues in Neighborhoods) initiative and skill building initiatives. Partnering our ideas with the city and surrounding businesses will help to leverage resources to create change. As we continue to focus on our mission: skill building, mentoring and mental health; this will lead to success for future generations.

Runway training, etiquette, and life skills classes.
Runway Rules specializes with girls ages 6-17.

Peninsula organization transforming lives, neighborhoods and cities through service.

Seton Youth Shelters provides 24-hour emergency shelter for youth ages 9 up to 18 years old, serves runaway, homeless, and trafficked youth and youth in crisis within their family, school and/or community. Youth Outreach Program includes Van Outreach, Safe Place services and Special Outreach Projects. A FREE mentoring program is available to youth 4 to 18 years old who have been affected by the incarceration (past or present) of someone in their lives. Parenting classes, Teen anger management program.
SETON YOUTH SHELTERS HOTLINE: 757.498.4357

Nonprofit organization that builds and delivers beds to children who do not have a bed. Proudly serving the peninsula to include Hampton, Newport News, Yorktown, Williamsburg & James City County

Note - there is not a current local listing in Hampton Roads - check link for updates.

Providing opportunities for young people to fulfill their potential as caring, responsible individuals through informal activities in a spiritual, open, and loving atmosphere that celebrates their diversity.

Core Subject Tutoring, Minecraft, STEAM Clubs, Coding Challenges, NASA Interactive Activities and Challenges, Summer Camps and more. Programs available for Elementary, Middle and High School level students.

Manufacturing Technology Summer Camp Run by STIHL, Inc this camp for rising 9th, 10th, 11th & 12th grade students provides hands-on experience with state-of-the-art manufacturing and engineering technologies. Gives an inside look at a world-class production facility and provides a chance to win a scholarship. FREE Camp Opportunity.

4-H Youth Development Program is a community of young people ages 5-18 across America who are learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills. Summer Camps may be available.

Youth ages 6-17 are paired with positive adult role models who commit to spending several hours per week for at least one year with their mentees with the goal of forming a trusting friendship that helps set the youth on a successful path to adulthood.

Local programming for teens including summer camps for kids in 7th grade+.

The Hampton Youth Commission is comprised of young people of high school age (14-18). Appointed by Hampton City Council, these students are able to represent the voice of youth in the City of Hampton.

Healing, Evolving & Building Communities...One Family at a Time!

Youth Mentoring Program - The STAR program works to instill the core values of professionalism, leadership, team building traits, and community involvement to the youths of Chesapeake between the ages of 10 and 14.

The Wonder Years Network is an organization that stands to support young adults with a holistic health and wellness approach. The goal is to provide these services with no fees attached. Offering summer camp to Newport News elementary students.

The York County Youth Commission (YCYC) serves as a communications link between the youth of York County and the Board of Supervisors by researching and presenting student issues, problems, needs, ideas, and suggestions. The YCYC also makes recommendations regarding programs provided to youth and participates in their establishment when appropriate.For high school students (grades 9-12) residing in York County.

Exploring provides exciting activities and mentorship for youth ages 10-20 looking to discover their future. Whether you’re a local organization looking to strengthen the community or a young person wanting to uncover the possibilities of your future, Exploring is a great place to start.

Providing programs for young people in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, and Northeastern North Carolina that build character, leadership and citizenship.

Venturing is an inclusive program through the Boy Scouts of America for males and females aged 14-21 (or 13 and completed the 8th grade). It’s operated through Venturing Crews, units of youth and advisors that meet on set schedules and plan activities and events for youth. Providing programs for young people in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, and Northeastern North Carolina that build character, leadership and citizenship.

Cub Scouts is a year-round program that offers fun activities that promote character and leadership development. Open to boys and girls in grades K-5.

Cub Scouts BSA is a year-round program that is available to all youth in the fifth grade through high school. Service, community engagement and leadership development are important parts of the program as youth lead their own activities and work their way toward earning Scouting’s highest rank, Eagle Scout. Providing programs for young people in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, and Northeastern North Carolina that build character, leadership and citizenship.

Sea Scouting is a program of the Boy Scouts of America for young men and women ages 14 to 21. For over 100 years Sea Scouting has promoted better citizenship and improved members’ boating skills through instruction and practice in water safety, boating skills, outdoor, social, service experiences, and knowledge of our maritime heritage.

Providing programs for young people in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, and Northeastern North Carolina that build character, leadership and citizenship.

Trail Life USA is a Christ-centered, boy-focused mentoring program that engages boys in service & outdoor adventure to develop godly & courageous leaders. Locations/chapters throughout Hampton Roads.

Unreasonable Kids College is a social, educational enterprise, building the next generation of kid superheroes. The goal is to train kids to become unreasonable thinkers to see opportunities where adults see problems. Online Classes. In-person Summer Camps available.

Christian based organization focused on sports, fitness, nutrition, academics, & mentorship. Camps. clinics, and sports conditioning available.

Hands-on exhibits, outdoor aviary, nature trail, and marshlands. 3D IMAX® Theater. Boat trips, tours, children's programs. Birthday parties and summer camps available. Teen nature conservation programs and opportunities.

4-H is the youth development program of the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service conducted by Virginia Tech and Virginia State Universities. It is an informal, hands-on education approach focusing on building lifelong learning skills that develop youths' potential through community clubs, special-interest groups, camps and in-school programs. Projects cover subjects ranging from citizenship, foods and health, to animal sciences. These are "learn-by-doing" programs for youth ages 5-19.? Overnight Camp available.

The Fire Cadet program is a hands-on, career-based program offered through the Virginia Beach Fire Department and the Office of Volunteer Resources. The Cadet program is open to young men and women ages 14 (and completed the fourth grade) to 18 years old (in 12th grade) with an interest in learning more about a career in the field of fire and emergency services. The program provides participants with volunteer opportunities, team building, and proper equipment usage.

Multiple programs for Hampton Roads families including fitness and athletic programs for kids and families, toddler programs, swim lessons, arts and theater programs, preschool programs, before/after school child care, summer and out of school camps, teen leadership programs and more.

The Young Adult Police Commissioners program, or YAPC, provides a unique opportunity for the City's youth to learn about the police department and interact with officers. Members meet weekly to discuss current events and use their voices about issues that affect young people.

The YAPC consists of a freshman, sophomore, junior and senior from each high school in Newport News. Members have participated in a variety of activities, including field trips, community walks, City Council meetings, and more.

YOURS provides mentoring, tutoring, leadership development, spiritual awareness, and recreational activities through partnerships with all five local high schools, churches, and agencies.

Youth Braid and Business Academy is an enrichment program that provides hair braiding and entrepreneurship training to youth ages 11-17. Our fun, hands-on program is great for public schools, private schools, home school, churches, parks and recreation, and more. Our program can be implemented during or after school, as well as during spring and summer breaks.

The Youth Leadership Development Program is a youth mentoring project sponsored by Parks & Recreation in partnership with the Saturday Academy for Positive Self-Development. Youth Leadership Development is a mentoring, empowerment, and interactive program for families intended to increase graduation rates and increase parental involvement. This program includes school visits by the facilitator. It additionally seeks to decrease criminal behavior by re-directing families to more constructive community programs. Parents must register their children for this program to attend with them.

The Youth Leadership Program (YLP) provides a service-learning opportunity for youth, ages 13-17, who reside in the Southeast community of Newport News, Virginia. Community youth have to complete an application and interview process. Selected youth have the opportunity to assist staff with the facilitation of summer programs and services at one of the five Wickham Avenue Alliance sites.