Welcome to The WeBelong Institute
Welcome to The WeBelong Institute
Mission: To create spaces of belonging that promote mental wellness.
Vision: A world where everyone has somewhere to go, someone who cares, and something to live for.
A New Kind of Mental Health Movement
The WeBelong Institute is a San Diego–based 501©3 nonprofit working to prevent suicide and reimagine mental health care — starting with community.
We are founded by young people who’ve lost loved ones to suicide and overdose — and who believe no one should ever have to suffer in silence. That’s why we’re building a new kind of support system: one rooted in connection, creativity, and care.
We run peer-led programs, community research, and mental health-first spaces like The Connection Series, where anyone can show up and feel like they belong.
“We exist because disconnection kills — but belonging can save a life.”
Aly Vredenburgh, Founder
Belonging is a protective factor against suicide.
— Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 2021
“Lacking social connection increases the risk of premature death by more than 60%.”
— U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, 2023 Advisory on Loneliness
69% of young people report feeling alone or like they don’t belong.
— Harvard Youth Poll, 2021
Our Partners
We partner with select organizations that align with our goals and values.
Join Our Volunteers
Ready to build something meaningful with us? We’d love to help spread love and connection with you!
