First founded in 1971, Sherwood was the first regional library of the FCPL. It now boasts a 157,578-item collection. In addition to the plethora of books, young kids can enjoy the Read to Me room with puzzles, flannel boards and board book. The library offers one-on-one tutoring sessions and partners with several non-profits, including the American Association of Retired Persons for tax assistance. Every Wednesday, the Mount Vernon Farmers market meets in front of Sherwood Regional from May to November.
This location is the headquarters of the American Horticultural society, one of the country's oldest gardening organizations. Founded in 1922, it exists to provide gardening and horticulture information, upholds standards of social responsibility and works in the interest of environmental stewardship. The headquarters is located on the River Farm property that once belonged to George Washington. It is between Mt. Vernon and Old Town Alexandria, and features 25 acres of gardens, grounds and picnic areas overlooking the Potomac. It is open to the public on weekdays and Saturdays in the spring and summer. Admission is free, but donations are always appreciated. Group activities are welcome but parties should make a reservation. A schedule of activities and events is available on the organization's website.
Faith Evangelical Presbyterian Church, located between Edison High School and Kingstowne, has been serving the Kingstowne community since 1987, providing its members with a close-knit community. There is an athletic field and basketball hoop in the back and the building underwent renovations in 2002.
St. Paul's was designed by one of the country's most famous architects, Benjamin Latrobe, who also finished designing the U.S. Capitol and White House. St. Paul's was originally founded in 1809 in a small building on South Fairfax Street, but moved into the building designed by Latrobe in 1817. The church has a rich history. In 1862, the church was used as a hospital for Federal forces until spring 1865. Members have been baptized in the Episcopal Church, confirmed Episcopalian or received into the church by the bishop.
The International Sign Association (ISA) is a trade association headquartered in Old Town Alexandria. ISA is located within a large office building at the corner of N. Fairfax Street and Canal Center Plaza. ISA members include manufacturers, users and suppliers of on-premise signs and other visual communications products. ISA supports the visual communications industry, "which sustains the nation's retail distribution, service and manufacturing industries," according to the association.
Like many churches in Alexandria, this parish is rich in history. In 1862 it was used as a hospital by Union forces occupying Alexandria. The first floor was used as a stable. It was returned to its congregation in 1865. It underwent several major renovations, including stained-glass and oak pews in 1899. New members today join the church through a certificate of transfer from a previous church or through a profession of faith. The church baptizes adults and children.
Calvary Road Baptist is a large church located near the Manchester Lakes Shopping Center. Founded in 1979, it is now led by Pastor David Rhodenhizer. In addition to worship, it offers a wide variety of services, including Bible study, music programs, a private school and summer school.
For over 60 years, the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria has served as a community resource for homeless animals. The organization promotes responsible pet care through adoptions, education, spay and neuter assistance and community service and outreach. It operates the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter, an open-admission facility that accepts any and all animals in need of homes. In addition to cats and dogs, the shelter also accepts and places rabbits, pigs, guinea pigs, birds, chinchillas, iguanas and many other animals.
The Del Ray United Methodist Church stays actively involved in the town by offering a variety of community services. The church also provides opportunities for children to learn and explore their faith, including a 9am "Prayground Service" on the second Sunday of each month.
Along with Bible study and women's prayer meetings, the church also hosts Alcoholics Anonymous and Overeaters Anonymous support groups.
The church's large sanctuary holds worship on Sunday at 1030am and Wednesday at 730pm.
The St. Louis Catholic Church and affiliated school has an active community with both Sunday and daily masses.
The church sponsors several religious education classes, including learning how to speak Latin and classes for those wanting to become members of the Catholic church.
The St. Louis Catholic School, on the same campus as the church, provides education for elementary school students. Information about the school can be found on the church's website.
This church is the oldest Catholic parish in Virginia. According to local lore, George Washington made the first donation to fund the church. The church originally was built at the southend of the city, on land that houses St. Mary's Cemetery. In 1810, the church moved to its current location.
The Fraternal Order of Eagles, located in a beautiful building in Old Towne Alexandria, is a national and international non-profit organization. Since 1900, the Fraternal Order of Eagles speaks out on people's behalf and also by funding for research in areas such as spinal cord injuries, kidney diseases, diabetes and more.