Alexandria's Snow Buddies Clear Paths for 65 Neighbors

When Markos Panad shoveled a cancer patient's walkway in Alexandria this week, he wasn't just clearing snow. He was clearing a path to lifesaving chemotherapy appointments.

For 20 years, Volunteer Alexandria's Snow Buddy Program has paired volunteers with seniors, people with disabilities, and homebound residents who need help after winter storms. This season, the program is busier than ever, with 65 service requests coming in compared to the usual 30 to 40.

Volunteers like Sage Goyda bundle up with their kids, teaching the next generation about helping neighbors. Long-time volunteers like Alex Goyette and Katharine Corcoran return year after year, while newcomers Sam Stehle and Mark Jones just joined this week after the organization sent out a call for more help.

The program works simply: volunteers stay "on call" after the first snowfall and get matched with neighbors who live nearby. They bring shovels and ice melt to clear walkways, making homes accessible for people who might otherwise be trapped inside or risk dangerous falls.

Emergency Preparedness Coordinator Reba Winstead says the service does double duty. It keeps vulnerable residents safe while ensuring emergency responders can reach homes quickly if needed.

The program currently has 50 active volunteers plus seven more in training. They cover Alexandria well, but requests from neighboring Fairfax and Arlington counties can't be filled because those areas lack similar programs.

Sunny's Take

The real magic happens beyond the cleared sidewalks. Knowing someone will show up brings peace of mind to people who might otherwise feel forgotten during harsh weather.

Volunteers report feeling uplifted too, finding purpose in serving neighbors who need them most. In a time when connection feels harder than ever, the simple act of shoveling snow builds community one walkway at a time.

The nonprofit relies on limited city supplies plus donations from residents and volunteers. They ran out of ice melt Monday but plan to restock once the snow emergency lifts.

Winstead's advice extends beyond the program: check on your neighbors, especially during tough weather. Small acts of looking out for each other help entire communities get through challenges together.

Volunteers find satisfaction knowing they're engaged and helping others in tangible ways. That positivity ripples outward, lifting spirits throughout Alexandria's neighborhoods when the weather tries to bring everyone down.