our impact

Repairing connection, one neighborhood at a time

196lives invested in across 50 families

71kids in our out-of-school program

1,254+volunteer hours from 25 youth mentors

53adventure outings

2025 numbers, from our 2025 Impact Report.

The problem we're tackling

Both parents and youth identify loneliness and social isolation as a top mental health concern, with nearly 8 in 10 parents and youth naming it.^* Families feel it, and loneliness has lasting effects.

^* Child Mind Institute, Intergenerational Stressors Study, 2025, a nationally representative study of parent-child pairs funded by the Morgan Stanley Alliance for Children's Mental Health.

2 in 10high school students seriously considered suicide in the past yearHealth Resources and Services Administration

51stOregon's rank out of 51 for adult prevalence of mental illness, with nearly one in three adults reporting a mental illnessMental Health America, 2025

Up to 3×the risk of depression for young people who struggle with loneliness, with effects lasting at least nine yearsLoades et al., University of Bath, 2020

61%increase in diagnosed anxiety among U.S. teens (ages 12–17) between 2016 and 2023HRSA, National Survey of Children's Health, 2023

in their words

What kids and parents tell us

94%of kids said there's at least one adult at We Belong they trust and know they can go to for help.

81%of kids said there's at least one peer at We Belong they trust and consider a good friend.

90%+of families have seen an increase in their child's confidence, social skills and desire to make healthier choices since joining.

“After my mom passed away last year, just the support that We Belong showed me and my family meant so much to us.”We Belong participant since 2023

“We Belong has given my child a true sense of belonging and confidence. Knowing they are seen, supported, and celebrated has made a meaningful difference for our whole family.”We Belong family since 2024

This is what it means to belong

Connections that empower

Marcus

A bright presence at our Centennial site for three years, Marcus kept struggling with impulse control and stress. Our program lead started a vulnerable check-in with his guardian and, with humility, suggested a "digital detox" to address his screen-induced stress.

The guardian's response, "I trust you," marked a new level of partnership.

When we work as a team with families, we can offer the thoughtful, life-changing guidance that protects a child's well-being.

a story of belonging

Mia's journey to community and confidence

Isolation weighed heavily on 9-year-old Mia. Her mother, Lyla, was searching for a community of connection, but the relentless demands of work and limited options made it hard. From boxing to park visits to soccer, they tried everything. The activities never lasted, and the long drives to Clackamas, the closest place they could find scholarships, left them discouraged.

Relief came through a summer program. Our Hope Center site had partnered with Mia's school for a special three-week summer of fun, and Mia had a blast. When her mom learned about our year-round program, she jumped at the chance to register her. Embraced by the kindness of our staff and volunteers, Lyla knew this was a community she could trust.

Since joining We Belong, Mia's growing confidence has been awe-inspiring. Her self-image has visibly improved, beautifully intertwined with her Latin heritage. She now steps out of her comfort zone when she sees a need, and her grades have soared. Guided by her program coordinator, Mia found a mentor she deeply respects, and she dreams of becoming a mentor herself one day.

“Your program isn't just a place to learn a skill; it's a way of life. As parents, our reach is limited, and you've quenched that essential need.”Lyla, Mia's mom