Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mount Vernon At Home?

Mount Vernon At Home is a volunteer-driven organization that provides services and support that assist Mount Vernon seniors to age in place in their own homes for as long as possible.

Why Should I Join Mount Vernon At Home?

• You want to age in place in your home and the Mount Vernon community you love.
• You never know when you will need help getting to medical appointments or even shopping, due to a sudden fall or unplanned surgery.
• Even if family and friends can help with transportation and chores, they may not always be available.
• You can enjoy a wide range of educational programs and social events. Mount Vernon At Home will keep you from feeling isolated in your home. You’ll get to know other people in the Mount Vernon area at our social activities, outings and events.
• You will have access to a list of vetted vendors, such as plumbers, handymen, home health companies, etc.  Some vendors offer discounts to Mount Vernon At Home members. Follow-up phone calls or emails will check on the quality of service provided by the vetted vendors and volunteers.  With Mount Vernon At Home behind you, you greatly reduce the risk of exploitation - we will be your advocate in consumer issues.
• Take advantage of weekly grocery shopping trips; social companionship visits or phone calls; assistance with home technology issues (computer, TV, DVD, phones, answering machines); providing services for brief absences - water plants and mail pick up; medical advocacy services by trained volunteers; home care counseling and hospital discharge planning; monthly newsletters mailed to you.

Am I "ready" to join?

By joining you'll benefit now, even if you don't "need it" now. You will have access to vetted service providers and you can participate in all events - gatherings, programs, tours - with the opportunity to make new friends. 

Membership is a kind of insurance policy knowing that we are here for you whenever the need arises. At any age, changes in health can be both sudden and dramatic. By becoming a Mount Vernon At Home member today, you will have in place a trusted, familiar community that you can rely on to help you deal should need assistance.

What is included in general membership?

• A variety of social, educational, cultural and wellness events. These can be special tours, neighborhood walks, educational programs on navigating life's twists and turns
• One phone number to call for information about to request all services - volunteer services, referrals to vetted providers or to sign up for programs
• Reliable transportation to medical appointments, grocery shopping, hair appointments, banking and errands
• Assistance with technology issues
• Light handyman tasks
• Home organization and filing help
• Seasonal holiday help 

Does the Village provide medical care?

No. Mount Vernon At Home assistance does not include providing medical care, but we do have vetted home health care agency recommendations that can help you with this.

What if I need something that is not on the list of services?

Call Mount Vernon At Home to see what we can do for you! We will work with you to find a solution - from a ride, to new computer set up, to in-home personal care to hospital discharge planning. We love a good challenge!

What is the cost of membership?

The annual fee for general membership is $550 for individuals and $850 per couple.

I have a limited income. Can I still join Mount Vernon At Home?

Mount Vernon At Home is fortunate to have a Member Support Fund to help those with limited resources. Please call our office to find out more.

I live in a condo that provides handyman and some concierge services. Does Mount Vernon At Home offer additional advantages?

Yes. Mount Vernon At Home will take you grocery shopping and bring your groceries into your home for you. We will arrange for a volunteer to take you to medical appointments. And we offer activities for you to enjoy - such as bridge, exercise classes, talks on wellness and current events, etc.

Condominium handyman services are often not free of charge. Our volunteer handymen can be a big value to condominium owners. Additionally, our technology elves work magic everyday with members printers, cell phones, tablets, email, computers, TVs, etc.

Is there an age requirement for Mount Vernon At Home?

We welcome people of all ages, however, the majority of members are 60+.

Where is Mount Vernon At Home?

Our virtual village includes a 14-square mile section in southeastern Fairfax County, generally known as the “Mount Vernon” area. This area broadly comprises Cameron Run as its northern border, the Potomac River as its eastern border, Dogue Creek as its southern border, and Richmond Highway over to the northern part of Telegraph Road where it intersects with South Kings Highway as it western border. Please call our office if you have questions regarding our service area.

What role do volunteers play in Mount Vernon At Home?

Many Mount Vernon residents are already helping their neighbors. Our volunteers are no exception and are the power in the Mount Vernon At Home engine! All volunteers undergo background investigation checks and volunteer orientation prior to becoming active volunteers. Volunteer drivers also undergo a motor vehicle background investigation check.

Can I buy a membership for my parents or a neighbor?

Absolutely! Gift memberships are a thoughtful way to show someone you love that you care about their wellbeing. A gift membership provides peace of mind for both of you.

What is the tax status of Mount Vernon At Home and how can I help?

Mount Vernon At Home is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation. Membership fees cover about half of our operations and we rely on community friends for the remainder.  

Spreading the good word about Mount Vernon At Home is also a huge help to our organization. Please consider coordinating with our staff to invite friends and neighbors to a village meeting or event.