Spring 2025 Walk-A-Thon

Oakwood School Students Raise Over $7,000 for Local Firefighters

Every spring, Oakwood School students lace up their sneakers and take to the track for a beloved annual tradition: the Oakwood Student Council Walk-A-Thon. This on-campus fundraiser, organized by the Student Council Service Committee, allows students to raise funds by collecting donations from friends and family in support of their walking efforts. For the 2025 Walk-A-Thon, Oakwood’s Service Committee voted to donate the proceeds to a vital local organization: the Annandale Volunteer Fire Department (AVFD).

Service is an integral part of our community, and this year's student leaders felt it was essential to support local first responders. - Laura Strouse, Oakwood Student Services Director

The AVFD, founded in 1940, is one of twelve volunteer fire departments in Fairfax County, Virginia, and the only one that operates two stations. With Station 8 located on Columbia Pike and Station 23 on Little River Turnpike, the department provides emergency medical and fire suppression services 24/7 in partnership with Fairfax County Fire and Rescue. Their service area spans from Fairfax City to Alexandria City, and from Burke to Bailey’s Crossroads.

In May, AVFD firefighters visited Oakwood School to speak with students about their work and shared that the $7,171 raised would be used to purchase an ambulance for the station. As a volunteer-run organization, many of the firefighters serve the community in addition to holding full-time jobs outside of the organization. The students gained meaningful insight into public service, civic responsibility, and the impact of community support. 

Thank you to all the Oakwood School families, friends, and community members who contributed to this meaningful cause. To make a donation to the AVFD and support local first responders, visit their website.

Learn more about Oakwood School student leadership or contact Admissions to schedule a tour and see our community in action!