February was a whirlwind of action and impact for Medical Missionaries! We were deeply honored to be recognized by the Rotary Club of Manassas and were energized by a productive visit from the Coast Guard Cadet Capstone Team. Meanwhile, our “mighty medical team” returned safely from a highly successful medical mission to the Dominican Republic. In a month dedicated to love and friendship, we are proud to say that Medical Missionaries shared plenty of both with those we serve.
Celebrating Community: The Rotary Club Dinner
On January 31st, Medical Missionaries was honored to attend a wonderful dinner hosted by the Rotary Club of Manassas at the George Brent Knights of Columbus Post. We were proud to share the spotlight with our fellow honorees, the Knights of Columbus and Connections. It was a festive evening of community spirit, celebrating the impact of all three organizations—with a little pre-Super Bowl excitement thrown in for good measure! We are deeply grateful to the Rotarians for their enduring partnership and for a truly memorable night.
Coast Guard Academy Capstone Project
Medical Missionaries volunteer Patti Tutalo recently coordinated a site visit for our Coast Guard Cadet Capstone team, who are currently partnering with us on their senior project. Here is her report:
One of the joys of the last few months has been working with a cohort of cadets from the US Coast Guard Academy. Their capstone project involves working with Medical Missionaries, with whom I have volunteered for years. My intention for introducing this capstone to the cadets was to give them a different perspective than they would be given inside the gates of the CGA. It exposes them to humanitarian missions, nonprofits, and, most importantly, leading with empathy.
Recently, they visited the Medical Missionaries Office and met with the president, Dr. Gil Irwin, and other volunteer staff, who had a lot of leadership advice and insight.
The biggest takeaways:
- Get to truly know your patients or the people you lead or serve.
- Lead with empathy. This has been the key to leading an organization of all volunteers (no paid positions) for 28 years. It is also the motivator to keep going even on a bad day because poverty is always there.
- Work hard. At 84, Dr. Irwin continues to lift heavy boxes and drive long distances to make deliveries.
I am grateful for the opportunity to work with the cadets and Dr. Elise Jones, their awesome professor. Their leadership, mentorship, and friendship are so appreciated.
Supplies and Equipment In and Out
Jamaica: Medical Missionaries dispatched a trailer packed with essential aid—including food, clothing, school supplies, and critical medical equipment—now en route to Jamaica. Our dedicated partner, Rev. Russell, continues his tireless work on the ground, supporting communities still reeling from the recent hurricane. We are already preparing for our next shipment in April!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to this monumental effort.
Grundy, VA: Medical Missionaries recently loaded up “The Beast” and hit the road for Roanoke, VA. Upon arrival, our team met with Jerry and BJ from the Rocklick Food Pantry to transfer a full load of food, hygiene products, and baby essentials to the pantry’s truck.
While in town, the team also connected with Brenda, a local resident who wished to donate medical supplies that belonged to her late husband. By coordinating these stops, our team was able to seamlessly deliver much-needed aid to Rocklick while bringing in new donations to continue our mission. It was a perfectly timed and productive trip!
We are always accepting donations. Check out our website for ideas. Our drive to support the Rocklick Food Pantry in Grundy, VA is ongoing. Remember to “Fill a bag for Grundy!”
Local Donations: Our doors are open to collect or distribute in-person donations Monday thru Saturday, 8am to noon. Every donation goes to someone in need.
Please consult our updated list of items we can accept. Any questions, call the office at 703-335-1800. It is helpful if we know you are coming!
In February, Medical Missionaries had 120 donors visit our office and helped 62 clients.