Volunteers are the heart of Arlington Free Clinic’s care model. For over 30 years, the success of this model has been rooted in our commitment to ensuring that their time at the clinic is meaningful. One example of this is AFC’s volunteer intake program, which plays a critical role in supporting both our patients and overall clinic operations. Our intake volunteers, including many of whom are interested in pursuing a career in medicine, have the opportunity to see community health in action and develop professional skills in a real-world setting.
Intake volunteers assist with the flow of clinics by preparing patients for their appointments with a provider. They collect key clinical information and administer screenings related to mental health, alcohol and tobacco use, and dental concerns. They also help prepare patients for exams and communicate any concerns to the staff Nurse Manager. Over the past year, we have onboarded 68 new intake volunteers who have supported this vital first step in care. These volunteers, who include emergency medical technicians, medical assistants, and certified nursing assistants (many of whom are pre-med students), gain valuable firsthand experience with clinical workflows and community-based healthcare.
These volunteer testimonials illustrate the meaningful connections that AFC’s intake volunteers build with our patients and community. We are deeply grateful for their compassion and dedication to ensuring the smooth operation of our clinics and supporting the vital infrastructure that makes accessible care possible.
“I love sitting down with patients before their visit, ensuring they feel welcomed and comfortable. It’s incredibly rewarding to help bridge the gap between our community and the high-quality care they deserve.”
Luca Tognelli, MA , Virginia Tech, Biochemistry graduate“The best part of intake is seeing patients feel comfortable and understood when I speak their language, as a native Spanish speaker that connection means everything to me, and I am and grateful to break these language barriers.”
Ameleen Wong, CCMA , George Mason University, Biology major“Working as an intake volunteer with AFC has shown me firsthand how much small moments of kindness and attentive listening can help patients feel better, and I’ve especially found it meaningful to grow more confident working with interpreters and even learn a few Spanish phrases to better connect with patients across language barriers.”
Adhithi Rajesh, EMT , Georgetown University, Pre-Med track“My role at AFC is a mutualistic one: the patients help me just as much as I help them. Every shift, I see my efforts directly bridging gaps in care within my community, and in return, I am continually grounded by patients’ warmth and inspired by their resilience.”
Tannaz Ghobadi, CCMA, Johns Hopkins University, Master’s in Biotechnology“Working with patients at AFC is especially meaningful because they are part of my local community.”
Emily Hunter, CCMA, University of Virginia graduate“As an intake volunteer, I enjoy the opportunity to connect with patients and help them feel welcome at AFC. My role allows me to maintain my clinical communication skills which are valuable as a healthcare worker.”
Dominic Fiedtkou-Leonard, EMT , Virginia Commonwealth University, Master’s Candidate“The situation of the world always seems to be so heartbreaking and overwhelming. A lot of times, I feel completely helpless. When I volunteer at AFC, I feel more grounded and connected to my local community. I love speaking with each patient and sincerely wish the best for each of them. After every shift, I feel less fear and less hurt. Volunteering makes me realize that there are people working hard everyday to care for one another, and that I can contribute to that, even if in a small way.”
Jordan Elasfari, EMT , Georgetown University, Pre-Med track
