Several times during the year, Karin’s Florist acknowledges the accomplishments of a local organization by donating portions of a specialized floral arrangement to a particular charitable program.

This month, we would like to recognize the volunteer organization, Assistance League of Northern Virginia. Powered by the dedicated volunteers who not only organize but also fund their philanthropic endeavors, the Assistance League contributes to the needs of the local community by developing numerous programs that always promote the overall well-being of the community at large.

The Assistance League of Northern Virginia is a chapter of the national association Assistance League, a nonprofit organization that promotes volunteerism through leadership training and education.

Along with their primary aspiration to promote literacy amongst elementary school students, the volunteers of the Assistance League of Northern Virginia have made great strides in the fight against sexual assault and abuse. Their program, Operation Hugs was organized to benefit the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Clinic at Inova Fairfax Hospital. The Assistance League members deliver Assault Survivor Kits, complete with personal hygiene items as well as comforting heart shaped pillows to the patients at the clinic. As of 1999, members have delivered over 4,700 pillows and 1,204 Assault Survivor Kits to the young patients and adult abuse victims.

Our Operation Hugs bouquet is designed to celebrate and support the volunteers of the Assistance League of Northern Virginia and the members of the community that benefit from their service. The brilliant arrangement is a combination of bright orange, beautiful coral and vibrant purple flowers all surrounded by lush greenery. This cheerful standing arrangement would be ideal in any home or as a striking centerpiece. When you buy this gorgeous arrangement, a portion of the proceeds from will go directly to support the mission of the Assistance League of Northern Virginia. If you wish to learn more about the Assistance League or about the benefits of becoming a member, please visit their website at www.northernvirginia.assistanceleague.org.