The Twig Backs Inova Expansion with $300K Donation, More to Come
The Twig’s $300K in Gifts Will Help Power Healthcare, Education, and Retention at Inova
Alexandria, VA—The Twig, the Junior Auxiliary of Inova Alexandria Hospital, held its annual meeting on Wednesday, June 11, at the Belle Haven Country Club. President Rachel Bishop made a significant announcement at the meeting regarding two substantial donations totaling $300,000.
The initial donation of $250,000 marks the non-profit’s first installment of a three-year commitment to contribute a total of $500,000 to the new Inova Health Center-Oakville Care in Potomac Yard. Although they initially planned to donate $150,000 yearly, their outstanding fundraising success allowed them to contribute even more. The second donation, a $50,000 check, to Inova Alexandria will enhance team members’ education, ensure nurse and team retention, and advance vital workplace safety initiatives.
Addressing the lively crowd of committed volunteers, whom she proudly calls “twigs,” Bishop asserted, “These monetary gifts not only fulfill our mission but also resonate deeply within our hearts.”
This dedicated volunteer organization runs a thrift shop at 106 N. Columbus Street in the heart of Old Town Alexandria. It also organizes the Annual Historic Alexandria Homes Tour, which is a highlight of the Alexandria calendar each September. In addition to this event, the organization raises funds through various smaller activities.
During a celebration of their past achievements, members were reminded of the essential role that their volunteer spirit plays in improving healthcare services for local residents. Cathy Bradford, owner of King’s Jewelry, has been a volunteer “twig” for 18 years. “I appreciate the organization for its ability to welcome volunteers of all ages and backgrounds. As a working woman, I particularly value the variety and flexibility that the volunteer opportunities offer,” Bradford told Zebra.
Founded in 1933, the Junior Auxiliary of Alexandria Hospital began with a group of 24 young women who gathered at the home of civic leader Mrs. Julian Burke. Mrs. Nellie Sommers Blackwell won a naming contest with her suggestion of “The Twig,” symbolizing the organization’s role as a small branch of the larger support network for the hospital. The Twig has been actively contributing to the hospital’s needs since the 1940s, when members started selling carnations on the streets of Alexandria for just ten cents each. This initiative helped fund a blood transfusion program, showcasing the community group’s enduring commitment to local healthcare. Since its establishment 92 years ago, The Twig has contributed over $5 million to Inova Alexandria Hospital.
As the organization looks to the future, its commitment to supporting Inova Alexandria Hospital remains strong. This dedication ensures that essential services will be easily accessible to those in need in their local area. Dr. Rina Bansai, President of Inova Alexandria Hospital, emphasized that “the partnership with Twig illustrates the strength of the community in driving meaningful and impactful change.”
The Twig invites community members to visit its thrift shop and participate in the 83rd Annual Historic Homes Tour on Saturday, September 27. Ticket sales will begin later this summer. The meeting concluded with the installation of Lori Ring as the new president. She expressed her excitement about serving in this role and her commitment to supporting the hospital, highlighting Twig’s enduring dedication to quality healthcare in the community.
FOR MORE PICTURES OF THE LUNCHEON, see the Zebra’s Facebook post below:
