OWL Volunteer Fire Department Shaves Heads, Raises Funds

The OWL VFD, usually known for putting out fires and responding to 911 calls, put their hair on the line to raise funds for research to find new cures for childhood cancer.

On March 11, 2011, the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department hosted their 6th Annual St. Baldrick’s Event. With 52 heads shaved, OWL VFD raised almost $30,000 and the shavees included a last minute guest.

 “How could I say no to helping OWL VFD and kids with cancer?” said Prince William Board of County Supervisor Martin Nohe.  Supervisor Nohe brought a donation check and had his head shaved by OWL VFD public relations specialist, Rebecca Barnes. 

“Next year,” said Barnes, “we would love to see more board members, maybe even some Chiefs from other departments here shaving for St. Baldricks!”

The St. Baldrick’s Foundation provides grants to research institutions to find new cures for childhood cancer, and find treatments to ensure a better quality of life for patients and survivors. The Foundation funds research projects conducted by established pediatric cancer experts, as well as younger professionals who will be the experts of tomorrow. Funds also enable hundreds of local institutions to participate in national pediatric cancer clinical trials, offering the best available care for every child.

Entertainment for the evening was provided by the ever popular Irish-bar band, the Hooligans. This is in addition to the already jam-packed night that also included a silent auction, and a catered dinner. 

“Everyone from the shavees to the donors and sponsors are part of the OWL VFD effort to make a difference for children with cancer. We are proud to partner with the St. Baldrick’s Foundation and our community,” explained Tony Carroll, OWL’s event coordinator.  Shavees were not just from OWL VFD, but Dale City VFD, Dumfries-Triangle VFD, Manassas City VFD and Manassas Park FD.  We especially want to thank the numerous businesses that sponsored our silent auction. Without their support, we couldn’t be as successful!”

OWL VFD is one the largest and busiest volunteer fire departments in the United States with over 300 active members. OWL VFD provides fire suppression, EMS care, and rescue services to 80,000 residents in our 27-square mile area through the operation of three fire stations. OWL volunteer firefighters and EMTs work the 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. shift, five days a week, plus 24/7 holidays and weekends.

Donations are still being accepted. Make your donation at http://www.stbaldricks.org/events/mypage/eventid/229/eventyear/2011

Check out the before and after photos on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton-Volunteer-Fire-Department/345061240652?ref=ts

-- Submitted by the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Deparment.