Oakwood students raise funds for the Annandale fire department

Students at the Oakwood School in Annandale raised more than $7,000 for the Annandale Volunteer Fire Department.

The Oakwood Student Council hosts a walk-a-thon every spring to raise money for a local organization by asking for donations from friends and family members.

This year, the students raised funds to help the AVFD purchase a new ambulance. “Service is an integral part of our community, and this year’s student leaders felt it was essential to support local first responders,” said Student Services Director Laura Strouse.

In May, AVFD firefighters visited Oakwood to talk about their work. It’s the only Fairfax County fire department with two locations – Station 8 on Columbia Pike and Station 23 on Little River Turnpike. Many of those who volunteer at the fire stations also hold full-time jobs outside the organization.

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“The students gained meaningful insight into public service, civic responsibility, and the impact of community support,” said Samantha Pleasant Fleming, Oakwood’s communications director.

Oakwood School was founded in 1971 to provide specialized education for bright elementary and middle school students with mild to moderate learning differences.

Located at 7210 Braddock Road, Oakwood also offers community services, including rental space, learning assessments, dyslexia screenings, and summer programming.

Tax-deductible donations to the AVFD can be made here.