Our Inaugural Cohort of Volunteer Mentors
The wait for professional mental health care can feel endless—and overwhelming.
This is where Bridging the Gap from Wellness Loudoun steps in. Our program offers a lifeline during that critical waiting period by connecting individuals and families with trained volunteer mentors—people who’ve walked a similar path and are ready to offer support, understanding, and hope. It’s about human connection when it’s needed most.
At Wellness Loudoun, we believe emotional wellbeing begins with feeling truly seen, valued and connected. No matter how overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure you might feel right now, you don't have to navigate this alone.
Bridging the Gap connects community members with trained Mentors - volunteers who've walked a similar path and are here to offer empathy, encouragement, and a steady presence. Whether you're looking for guidance, community resources, or simply someone to listen without judgement, we're here for you.
What You’ll Receive
• One-on-one support (about 8 weeks)
• Weekly meetings (in person or Zoom)
• Help navigating care and resources
• A steady, compassionate presence
You don't have to know exactly what you need. Just know that you're welcome here. Together, we'll take the next step toward feeling more supported, more hopeful, and more connected. Your journey matters, and you belong.
Are you looking for support?
If you're feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or just need someone to walk beside you, we're here. As a community member, you'll be matched with a volunteer Mentor who will listen, encourage, and walk with you at your own pace.
Please click the I NEED SUPPORT button below and complete the form. We will be in touch to connect and share resources and our timeline for beginning to work with a mentor.
Our second group of volunteer Mentors have completed training and are available to offer support to community members.
We're honored you're here. Let's walk this together.
Meet the Mentors
Volunteer mentors with lived experience who listen without judgment, encourage next steps, and help you find local resources.
Jason
Jason's journey began in the upper midwest and has taken him through Arizona and Florida, before finally finding a home in Virginia where he has lived for 20 years. He lives in Ashburn and enjoys music, art, exercise, cooking, movies, and spending time with his two sons. He has a passion for wellness, and is excited to see where this new stage of life will lead.
Jessica
Jessica is the mom of 3 adult children who all suffered from significant mental and physical health issues, and is hoping to share what she learned about caring for others with severe and prolonged illnesses. As the president of PFLAG Ashburn/Loudoun County, she has a particular interest in helping LGBTQ individuals and their families navigate the specific issues and obstacles that this community encounters.
Nikki
My name is Nikki, and I'm married with one wonderful child. My mental health journey began early in life, as I navigated the challenges of growing up with anxiety. After a tragic family event, my depression and anxiety intensified, making everyday life much harder. Over the years, through therapy and a variety of coping tools, I've learned how to manage my mental health and move toward healing. Now, my hope is to walk alongside others on their own journeys offering understanding, encouragement, and support as they find their own path toward peace and resilience.
Lee
I’m someone who’s lived both sides of the mental health journey — as a combat veteran with PTSD and as a husband who supported my wife through severe postpartum depression. I left a career in the military to be there for my family and to face my own healing. I’m here to offer real support from someone who truly gets what it’s like when things fall apart — and how hard it is to reach out. You’re not alone, and you don’t have to do this by yourself.
Bridging the Gap
is proudly
supported by
Spark Good grants from our local
Sterling and Leesburg
Walmart stores
