One Million Hours of Volunteer Service Achieved by Mary Washington and Stafford Hospitals

Fredericksburg, VA (April 16, 2025) – Mary Washington and Stafford Hospitals are thrilled to announce that their dedicated volunteers have collectively reached a remarkable milestone of one million hours of volunteer service as of April 2nd. This achievement was celebrated by recognizing the invaluable contributions of 286 active volunteers, including adults, college, and junior volunteers.

“As we celebrate this significant milestone, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all volunteers who have dedicated their time and energy to support our hospitals and the patients we serve,” says Joanne Huber-Sturans, Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Mary Washington Healthcare. “Their commitment exemplifies the spirit of community and compassion that defines both Mary Washington and Stafford Hospital’s.”

"As we reflect on this extraordinary milestone, we are profoundly grateful for the unwavering dedication of our volunteers," says Xavier Richardson, Senior Vice President, Chief Development Officer, Mary Washington Healthcare, and President of Mary Washington Hospital and Stafford Hospital Foundations. "Their selfless service not only enhances the patient’s experience but also strengthens the fabric of our community. Each volunteer hour represents a commitment to compassion and excellence that is truly inspiring."

The contributions of MWH and SH volunteers are estimated to be worth an impressive $33.5 million, calculated using the national average hourly rate for volunteer work. In 2024 alone, Mary Washington Healthcare volunteers accumulated 42,161 hours of service, equivalent to the work of 20 full-time employees.

The historical roots of volunteerism at Mary Washington Hospital date back to April 6, 1938, when the MWH Auxiliary was established; and just months later, made their first purchase consisting of one crib and two junior beds for the hospital. Over the past 35-40 years, the volunteer program has grown significantly and continues to demonstrate a long-standing commitment to community service.

Volunteers at MWH and SH play a vital role in various capacities, including patient access, information desk support, patient discharge assistance, and more. They also engage in specialized roles such as NICU cuddlers, administrative assistance, as well as craft and sewing groups, all contributing to the overall patient experience and operational efficiency of the hospitals.

The gift shops at both hospitals, staffed by volunteers, serve as major fundraisers for each hospital's auxiliary, further highlighting the impact of volunteer efforts on the community.

For more information on our Volunteer Services, please visit volunteers.mwhc.com.

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About Mary Washington Healthcare

Mary Washington Healthcare is a fully integrated, regional healthcare system that provides inpatient and outpatient care at over 80 facilities including Mary Washington Hospital, a 471-bed tertiary hospital, Stafford Hospital, a 100-bed community hospital, four emergency departments, and a multi-specialty graduate medical education program. Mary Washington Healthcare is a non-profit health system with a longstanding commitment to providing care regardless of ability to pay. For more information about our services and facilities, visit mwhc.com.