Applications now open to local mentors and mentees for fall 2025 cohort
Visit Bentonville, the tourism and promotions agency of Bentonville, Arkansas, announces the launch of a new community mentorship program, Belong Bentonville. The program is designed to reflect the city’s trademark hospitality — not just to visitors, but to the people who call Bentonville home.
Belong Bentonville helps both newcomers and longtime residents feel more at home by connecting knowledgeable local mentors with new or recently relocated neighbors. Unlike career-focused mentorship programs, Belong Bentonville is centered on personal connection, sharing knowledge, and making friends. The program’s goal is simple: help residents forge connections and feel a true sense of belonging.
“Hospitality is at the heart of Bentonville. It’s who we are,” said Kalene Griffith, president and CEO of Visit Bentonville. “We welcome visitors to our city, and we’re excited to extend that welcome to new neighbors. Belong Bentonville is about opening doors, pulling up a chair and making sure every person feels they have a place here.”
Residents can apply to be either a mentor or mentee here: Belong Bentonville. Once participants sign up, they'll be matched with others based on their shared interests, goals and lived experiences. Featuring built-in support and guidance, Belong Bentonville helps mentors and mentees grow and learn together while building meaningful connections in the community.
The first Belong Bentonville cohort will launch in fall 2025. Applications are now open for both mentors and mentees. Mentors are residents of at least one year, who are familiar with Bentonville and want to support others to find their place. Mentees can be anyone who is new to town looking to get more involved in the local community.
For more information about the program, email: morgan@visitbentonville.com.
