Prince William Health System Auxiliary gathered recently to celebrate 50 years of service at a dinner banquet attended by Auxilians, health system leadership and the Honorable Hal Parrish, Mayor, City of Manassas. The Auxiliary was founded by six women, members of the Health Committee of the Woman’s Club of Manassas, to organize a hospital auxiliary. The first official meeting was held on November 7, 1962 with 43 people in attendance who later became charter members. Today, the Auxiliary has expanded to over 600 volunteers comprised of men, women and teens who have given over 1.8 million service hours.  

“The volunteers are an integral part of our organization,” said Melissa Robson, president of Prince William Health System and chief operating officer of Novant Health Northern Virginia Market. “They help us deliver a remarkable experience through their untiring willingness to help others.” Volunteer Services include greeting and escorting families and visitors, management of the hospital Gift Shop and local Thrift Shop, assisting staff, pet therapy and providing financial support through fundraising. To date the Auxiliary has raised over $5.4 million through special fundraising projects, such as the Annual Holiday Bazaar and Bake Sale, sales of the Pink Ladies Cook Book and the Annual Circle of Lights, which has provided patient and community benefits such as privacy curtains, wheelchairs and nursing scholarships.

“As volunteers we are here to extend a smiling face or a warm and caring hand to our neighbors,” commented Helen Poli, president Prince William Healthcare Auxiliary. “Fifty years later, not only have we proudly grown, but the hospital has grown to meet the needs of our community with expanded services and programs -- many of which are nationally recognized.”