Our First Volunteers Inova Alexandria Hospital was started by volunteers in 1872. Julia Johns, daughter of the Episcopal bishop of Alexandria, called together a group of concerned citizens and friends who were interested in charity work. Johns asked for their support in forming a society that would both establish and run a local hospital; this was the beginning of Alexandria Hospital. Alexandrians and residents in the surrounding community continue to volunteer enthusiastically and serve throughout the hospital as well as at the Springfield Health Plex.

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital Auxiliary has a long and proud history serving the hospital and its patients. Started in 1977 at Commonwealth Hospital and continuing through the relocation and renaming of our hospital to Inova Fair Oaks, our Auxiliary serves to promote and improve the general health of the community through education, service and goodwill. Inova Fair Oaks Hospital Auxiliary is a non-profit (501c) organization governed by an Executive Committee and oversees the fundraising activities of Inova Fair Oaks Hospital’s 400 volunteers.

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital volunteers are often the first hospital representatives with whom a family member speaks. Whether giving directions, answering the phone or offering support to patients and team members, volunteers help us provide the highest quality, compassionate care to the diverse communities we serve. Our volunteers are also vital to the operation of the Inova Fair Oaks Hospital Thrift Shop, which sells lightly used clothing and household items.

Requirements to Become a Volunteer Commit to one, 3-4 hour shift per week for a minimum of 6 months (unless participating in our High School/College summer-only program, during which each student is permitted 2 absences as needed). Be at least 16 years of age on or before the start date of the session for which you’re registering (for involvement in the High School programs); OR be at least 18 years of age (for involvement in the College and Adult programs). We ask that all communication come directly from the student.

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital Thrift Shop Donations We accept donations Tuesday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the back door.

Inova Fairfax Medical Campus offers many opportunities for volunteer service in 45 service areas, including patient interaction, staff support and retail assignments. Service Area Options and Availability Greatest need areas include Gift Shops, Treasure Trove shops, patient support services and clerical assignments.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering! Inova Fairfax Medical Campus offers many volunteer opportunities including patient support, staff support and retail assignments. Please note: Volunteer Services is not affiliated with any intern/shadowing programs at Inova. For more information on those opportunities, visit the Clinical Education & Research website. We have two different college student programs designed to accommodate students who have availability during the summer only and those with availability year-round.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering at the Inova Fairfax Medical Campus! Volunteering will give you the opportunity to get an "inside look" at a medical campus while learning about support functions in patient care and retail operations. Volunteer Opportunities for High School Students There are four areas where high school students are able to serve. These areas will be discussed in detail during the information meeting. We will do our best to accommodate your preference if an opening in that particular area is available.

Video: Watch Our Volunteers in Action About Our Volunteers We are fortunate to have a dedicated and enthusiastic corps of approximately 1,000 volunteers supporting the hospital in 45 service areas, averaging 140,000 hours of service each year. Through the hospital's gift shops and resale stores, volunteers have contributed millions of dollars to support services, programs and scholarships on Inova Fairfax Medical Campus.

The Auxiliary of Inova Fairfax Medical Campus is the largest corps of volunteers serving the hospital. First organized in 1956, while the hospital was still in the planning stages, interested citizens worked together to raise funds to help make the hospital a reality. Annual Auxiliary Scholarships The Auxiliary's scholarship program is on hiatus until further notice.