Mount Vernon Volunteer 2024 Annual Report Department of Hospitality
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The 2024 Volunteer Annual Report provides an overview of the operations, contributions, and achievements of the Mount Vernon volunteers. The mission of the Mount Vernon volunteer program is to assist the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association in achieving its mission to preserve the estate of George Washington and educate visitors and people throughout the world about the life and legacies of George Washington.
Founded in 1992 by volunteer Jack Evans, the Mount Vernon volunteers’ program has grown from 30 volunteers in archaeology to an active corps of 256 volunteers. For over 30 years, the Mount Vernon volunteers have faithfully given their time and talents to the estate, serving as our most enthusiastic ambassadors supporting the estate in a variety of ways:
Administrative support
Archaeology lab work
Curatorial research and historic reproduction
Education and leadership program support
Estate beautification
Flag flying
Guest Services
Horticulture and horticulture interpretation support
Interpretation and fifer support
Public and private event support
Sewing Circle
Transportation
Volunteer Management
Washington Library research and transcription
Notable changes happened across the estate in 2024. President & CEO Dr. Doug Bradburn created the Department of Hospitality in May. This department merged the Office of Events, Volunteers & Protocol with food and beverage operations
By combining events, volunteers, and dining experiences across the estate, we ensure a more efficient means to complement and support the educational mission of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association. We streamline operations to maintain substantial revenue and provide exceptional "Washington hospitality" through our unique events, culinary experiences, and gold-standard ambassadors within the volunteer community. Our educational mission inspires; our hospitality team enhances these memorable visits
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Moreover, 2024 saw the continuation of two major projects that will better position the estate in educating future generations: Mansion Revitalization and the renovation of the Donald W. Reynolds Education Center. These projects are exciting and showcase state-ofthe-art preservation and museum work But they are not without challenges to Mount Vernon's daily operations. All staff and volunteers have seen and felt these effects, and they have compelled us to make changes and review how we conduct our work.
Yet, Mount Vernon's volunteers remain undaunted and committed to giving their time, energy, and dedication to Washington's beloved estate. During the changes and shifts of 2024, Mount Vernon's volunteers have been working behind the scenes to support staff; they are on the front lines, welcoming and guiding guests from the Texas Gate to the Mansion and throughout our public spaces.
In 2024, 256 Mount Vernon volunteers logged 22,318.25 hours across the estate - the highest recorded hours since 2019 and a 5% increase from 2023 These hours translate into volunteers contributing approximately $747,440 in value. This is a significant value, but their "boots on the ground" work and commitment to supporting every department across the estate exceed any number. The Mount Vernon volunteers continue to carry the standard in the volunteer world as true ambassadors and public servants to our nation's history. The Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and staff are deeply grateful.
Special Recognition
Mount Vernon is proud to recognize volunteers who have served the estate for many years. Their faithful service and dedication to the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association mission - through the years of changes, challenges and growth - is deeply appreciated.
500+ Lifetime Hours
Kitty Ahmad
Mary Albanese
Charlene Bickings
Rita Blacker
Sher Blair
Carol Boland
Andrea Boyce
Pam Broka
James Carty
Tom Clutz
Ed Coan
Jack Coulter
Carolyn Creevy
Patricia Creswick
Betty Davis
Scip de Kanter
Barbara Diehl
Richard Dorrier
Liz Dreazen
Pat Duffy
Linda Durand
Gail Eger
Trish Enright
Ann Ewers
Stephen Fahy
Roberta Feldman
Jeanette Fellhauer
Jim Fellhauer
Mickey Fenyk-King
Susan Finkel
Sharon Fletcher
Linda Flint
Patricia Getz
Julia Gluck
Linda Gower
Betty Gunter
Rose Gunthorpe
Elaine Harar
Richard Harless
Nancy Harper
Ray Hawn*
Jonathan Hill
Mary Jane Holt
Faye Holland*
Jeanne Howlett
Bob Howlett
Larry Jones
Bill Kane
Diane Kapanowski
Mary Karchner
Mitch King
Mary Klappa
Trish Klingenmaier
Francois Krodel
Kathy LaBarre
Larry Ledbetter
Darlene MacPherson*
Gay Massarsky
Dan Matheis
Kathleen McLoughlin
Jan Mikolashek
Cal McWhirter*
Judy Morrill
Kathy Mulcahy
Dick Noble*
Carolyn Ostrom
Judi Paulos
Melissa Petersen
Larry Porter
Gail Richmond
Karen Robinson
Sandra Ross
Debra Schwartz
Irene Schubert
Cheryl Sharp
Bob Simoniz
Harold Sinnett
Margaret Snow
Tom Sparks
Joe Sufczynski
Delores Taylor
Pat Veatch
Richard Walsh
Stevi Will
Dottie Worden
Neil Worden
* denotes emeritus or emerita
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO
On behalf of the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association, thank you for your extraordinary contributions over the past year. We simply could not achieve our goals of preservation and education without you. The once-in-a-generation Mansion Revitalization project has been fully underway throughout 2024. This ambitious preservation project has led to incredible discoveries such as the cherry bottles, and Mount Vernon continues to shine as a leader in the world of preservation.
We have also begun the complete renovation of the Donald W. Reynol Education Center, which will reopen in 2026 and enable us to contin mission to tell the world about General Washington’s life, character, a preservation and renovation projects are not easy and require tremendous effort.
Mount Vernon’s volunteers have been with us every step of the way, supporting our staff in their work and welcoming our guests with Washington hospitality Our volunteers remain our most stalwart supporters; your interest, encouragement, and commitment to this estate inspire and motivate staff and guests alike.
As I have always said, the spirit of Mount Vernon is built on volunteerism. We remain independent because individuals like you dedicate your time and talents to make sure this place survives. Mount Vernon volunteers perform exemplary work across and embody the mission of the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association each and every one of you do your part to ensure guests learn about the life and legacy of our greatest citizen. I thank you for helping us preserve this place to continue to tell the stories of Washington so that he will forever remain first in the hearts of Americans.
I hope that you will be as encouraged as I am reading through this report Because of your efforts, we continue on an upward trajectory that will safeguard George Washington’s Mount Vernon as an inspirational place where all are welcome.
My very best regards,
Douglas Bradburn President & CEO
MESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT FOR HOSPITALITY
2024 was unlike any year, with the continued preservat Mansion Revitalization and the commencement of the Center renovation, the logistics of exploring and naviga Mount Vernon has undergone significant changes and adjustments.
Understanding that Mount Vernon is "more than a Mansion, " volunteers did their part to engage our gue and around the historic area Volunteers continued me engagement opportunities with guests through Guest S historic area interpretation, and supporting estate prog events. In addition, in 2024, we began new volunteer o horticulture interpretation and staffing the popular 250 Kiosk in the Ford Orientation Center.
Our volunteers' willingness to try new things, stay engaged throughout all the changes, and provide feedback provides Mount Vernon's leadership invaluable insight. It also encourages staff in their successes while keeping us all humble and aware.
As we head into 2025 and celebrate the 250th anniversary of General Washington's becoming Commander-in-Chief, we do so with pride and excitement, knowing that Mount Vernon is where it all started: leaders in preservation and educators of General Washington's indispensable role in our nation's founding.
But it is the Mount Vernon volunteers who, for over 30 years, have been "keepers of the flame" - safeguarding our greatest Founding Father first in their hearts and minds and providing our guests with true Washington hospitality. Thank you for sharing your passion and respect for Washington's life and legacy with us. Huzzah!
Joan Flintoft Vice President for Hospitality
Equivalent to 930 days In 2024 256 volunteers gave 22,318.25 hours of service
A value of $747,440
The purpose of the volunteer program is to contribute to the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association’s mission to preserve the estate and educate people throughout the world so that George Washington’s example of character and leadership continues to inform and inspire future generations. The program has been in existence for over 30 years. Volunteers contribute their time and expertise across the estate.
Our Community Volunteers
We welcomed new volunteers throughout the spring and early summer, hosting new volunteer orientations, training, and onboarding sessions. In the end, 39 of 52 applicants became active volunteers in 2024 - a 75% retention rate and 10% higher than the national average. These 39 new volunteers alone contributed 2,372 hours to Mount Vernon.
Even more impressive, seven new volunteers have already dedicated between 100 and 300 hours each, a testament to their commitment and the positive engagement volunteers receive across the estate.
new volunteers
137 hours picking up litter
2,372 volunteer hours
volunteer orientation sessions
hours at the APC Reception Desk
261 hours assisting in the gardens
532 hours supporting Guest Services
139 hours providing interpretation support
114 hours assisting in the archaeology lab
hours attending volunteer training and enrichment sessions
It is important to the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and executive leadership that Mount Vernon volunteers receive educational opportunities to be engaged and informed and offer opportunities to socialize
Mount Vernon's Volunteer Enrichment Program (VEP) provides volunteers with continuous learning sessions that highlight the estate's history, ongoing and upcoming important projects, unique tours, and a greater understanding of the work of Mount Vernon's diverse staff.
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In 2024, volunteers enjoyed a variety of enrichment opportunities, including all the Brown Bag Lunch presentations at the George Washington Presidential Library, horticulture-led wagon tours, and presentations that included updates on Mansion Revitalization and the Education Center renovation. Enrichment also focused on increased training opportunities and time to socialize with fellow volunteers. Volunteer leadership offered multiple historic area interpretation and 18th-century game training sessions. Volunteers also enjoyed funfilled field trips to the Heurich House in Washington, D.C., and the Freedom House in Alexandria
new volunteers join in 2023
Begun in 2023, we continued a partnership with the Fairfax County Public Schools Secondary Transition to Employment Program (STEP). This program allows students aged 18-22 with disabilities to build independent living skills.
June marked a significant milestone as we celebrated one student's graduation, bid a fond farewell to two students who moved on in the program, and welcomed a new student into our volunteer program.
Staff from Operations & Maintenance and volunteer leadership attended the STEP graduation ceremony at Mount Vernon High School.
Our colleagues in O&M provided a rich and meaningful experience for students who volunteered with their department so much so that one of the students began a part-time job in O&M ! Students also contribute their time and skills in Guest Services, wayfinding, directing guests in the historic area, and assisting in estate beautification with litter pickup.
This partnership with STEP is a shining example of how the estate and our volunteer program can positively contribute to the broader community in Fairfax County. Working with and getting to know these students is a privilege and enriching to our volunteer program.
Mount Vernon leadership and staff recognized Mount Vernon volunteers during National Volunteer Appreciation Week, held April 21 - 27. Staff left messages of thanks and gratitude posted in the CCVC's volunteer activity room and on display during Volunteer Recognition Night in the Ford Orientation Center.
Volunteer Recognition Night is a highlight of the year for the Mount Vernon volunteer program. It is an opportunity to remember, reflect on, and recognize the milestones many individuals achieve each year.
In 2024, we recognized 34 volunteers with 100 up to 5,000 service hours Dr Doug Bradburn, President and CEO, could not attend in person but sent his warmest thanks in a recorded message and led Mount Vernon volunteers in huzzahs. Volunteers also paid tribute to and gave a standing ovation to the 23rd Regent of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association, Margaret Hartman Nichols, as her tenure as Regent ended in 2024.
The Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and executive leadership eagerly look forward to this celebration each year to socialize, thank, and recognize the efforts and talents of Mount Vernon's volunteers.
437 hours of transportation coordination and driving
664 hours assisting Mount Vernon's Fifer
296 hours assisting at 250 Kiosk
793 hours sewing and mending costuming
2,863 hours volunteering in Guest Services
2,418 hours volunteering for public and private events
1,766 hours volunteering in the archaeology lab
3,380 hours staffing administration front desks
497 hours of curatorial research
149 hours assisting Teacher Institutes
217 hours supporting Colonial Days
3,218 hours volunteering in horticulture
253 hours picking up litter
105 hours supporting MVLA Council
45 hours flying flags
853 hours historic area interpretation support
Potomac Preservation Day Volunteers
Since 1989, the Alice Ferguson Foundation has spearheaded the Annual Potomac River Watershed Cleanup to connect people to their local watershed through stewardship and volunteerism For many years, Mount Vernon volunteers have participated in this annual cleanup of the estate property, pulling trash and debris from the river shore along the seawall for proper disposal.
In February 2024, at the annual All-Volunteer Meeting, volunteer leadership announced that Mount Vernon would expand this day into a signature volunteer-led event that would include river shore clean up, litter pick up outside our gates, and staff information tables that would allow guests to learn about the MVLA's work to protect Washington's view and current day work to remove invasive plants on the estate grounds. In April, 31 volunteers gathered and spread out across the estate, collecting hundreds of pounds of trash. The day ended with a social lunch hour.
In advance of this day, a special presentation on the history of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association work to save Washington's view was given by Dr. Susan Schoelwer and recorded. Becca Baird, Archivist at the Washington Library, also provided reading and visual materials that all volunteers can view that cover the life and times of former Vice Regent for Ohio, Mrs. Frances Payne Bolton, who was integral to the viewshed work in its early years. The digital presentations have become a staple instructional tool for future Mount Vernon volunteers in their orientation sessions, and the material is available to view in preparation for this annual event.
Potomac Preservation Day is a day of camaraderie and cleanup, but it signifies something more: preserving Washington's estate and a tangible part of our country's history Our volunteers understand that the landscape influences one's understanding of history, from instruction to learning, and, therefore, is essential to the mission.
Volunteers
Christmas Illuminations
Mount Vernon events, managed by the Department of Hospitality, complement our educational mission, and provide guests and members with new ways to experience the estate and learn about General Washington's life and legacy.
In 2024, Mount Vernon hosted three nights of Christmas Illuminations; volunteers contributed 133 hours to this event, welcoming guests, handing out programs, playing 18thcentury tavern games, making cider, and much more.
Simply put, without our volunteers, Mount Vernon events would not achieve the level of success, strong revenue, and signature Washington hospitality that they are known for across the region.
"Volunteering at Mount Vernon, one feels valued and respected. Our volunteers are enthusiastic and have so much to offer! This is a wonderful place to honor the life George Washington and make life-long friends. "
Volunteers
18th Century Dancing
The Historic Trades staff leads 18th-century dancing during our public events, such as Revolutionary War Weekend, Mount Vernon by Candlelight, Winter Glow, and Christmas Illuminations.
The organization and execution of this activity require a team effort from Historic Trades, Historic Costuming, and volunteer participation as dancers. The Historic Trades and Historic Costuming departments host training sessions for staff and volunteers on hair styling, costuming, and dancing Months in advance, Historic Costuming staff begin fitting volunteers for gown ensembles and providing visual materials for instruction on attire and hair.
The culmination of this collaborative effort is a unique, fun, and educational experience for Mount Vernon guests. It has also resulted in a dedicated group of volunteers who enjoy the dancing and engagement with our guests.
Additionally, the Mount Vernon Volunteer Sewing Circle provides behind-the-scenes support for this activity; in 2024, the Sewing Circle logged 141 hours of costume cleaning and repair alone. Their hard work greatly benefits the Historic Costuming department's efforts to costume dozens of staff and volunteers across the estate.
"Visitors from all corners of the world spend their valuable time and resources to come to Mount Vernon to learn about General Washington and the numerous men and women who called Mount Vernon their home. It is a privilege to assist each visitor with whatever help or information they need. "
Volunteers Mount Vernon 250
On July 4, the Media & Communications department introduced the Mount Vernon 250 Kiosk in the Ford Orientation Center. This space informs our guests about the 250 programs happening at Mount Vernon and nationwide. The centerpiece includes the Mount Vernon 250 selfie station that provides keepsake-branded photos to guests.
Mount Vernon volunteers spent hundreds of hours in 2024 promoting Mount Vernon's 250 efforts and assisting guests in taking keepsake photos Mount Vernon appreciates that volunteers are enthusiastic and supportive of each new project and effort to promote membership, the 250th anniversary of our nation, and Washington's legacy.
" The program offers me the flexible schedule that I like and a variety of activities to do. It is well organized. And, of course, I like my fellow volunteers!"
Volunteers
Horticulture Interpretation
With volunteers' assistance, Horticulture staff cultivate and maintain Mount Vernon's stunning historic gardens and landscape. The gardens delight and interest guests of all ages. Working in close partnership with Horticulture this spring, the volunteer program added a new opportunity for volunteers: Horticulture Interpretation.
Volunteers spend time in the gardens, engaging with guests and answering questions about the types of flowers and vegetation. They can also share important historical facts that allow guests to learn more about General Washington as a farmer and how he came to design his landscape
Volunteers interested in this opportunity are provided reading material approved by the horticulture leadership. They can work with veteran senior volunteers who are experienced and comfortable supporting interpretation in the gardens. Mount Vernon volunteers performed 133 service hours for this new initiative, and we are excited to grow and expand it in 2025.
Volunteers Vision for 2025
2025 will celebrate the 250th anniversary of General Washington becoming commander in chief and founding our nation's military. While we celebrate Washington's character, life, and legacy every day of the year, 2025 will be memorable in acknowledging his leadership and duty toward a fledging nation on the verge of a "great experiment, " democracy.
The Department of Hospitality is ready and excited to welcome guests from across the nation and world, and the Mount Vernon volunteers are prepared to play their part to engage, educate, and inspire our guests Volunteers will do this as they have for over 30 yearsalongside staff in our administrative buildings, the historic area, and the Washington Library - providing assistance, camaraderie, an open mind, and a willingness to try.
Embracing new opportunities and ideas signifies a key aspect of the American spirit Mount Vernon takes great pride that this spirit prevails strongly within our volunteer program, as demonstrated throughout 2024. This year, as we celebrate the milestone anniversaries of 1775 and remember how 13 diverse and different colonies came together for one cause, over 250 volunteers will come together to honor General Washington and uphold the idea of a "more perfect union. "
E pluribus unu
98 of volunteers are "very likely" or "likely" to continue volunteering at George Washington's Mount Vernon %
98 of volunteers are "very satisfied" or "satisfied" in volunteering at Mount Vernon %
“Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness. " General Washington
96 of volunteers feel connected to the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association's mission %
