About Madelyn Washington

My name is Madelyn Washington , and I am a senior at Richland Northeast High School in Columbia, SC. Throughout my time in high school, I have volunteered more than 660 hours at Columbia VA Medical Center but my connection to service started much earlier. For over 10 years, I’ve been involved in volunteering — from helping my mom with event setups, to assisting at church, to now spending my summers giving back to the veteran community that has always been part of my life. Both of my parents and my grandfather are veterans, so being at the VA feels like a personal connection— like I’m giving back to those who’ve given so much for me.

I joined the VA Summer Program in 2022 and have returned every year since. Over time, the hospital became more than just a place I volunteered — it became a place where I felt a true sense of belonging. I’ve worked across several departments, including Kinesiotherapy and Medical Media, and participated in the high school medical research program, where I observed lectures and group sessions with medical students and professors.

One of the most meaningful parts of my time at the VA has been using my passion for photography to document the program. Throughout my years of volunteering, I’ve captured moments that reflect the heart of what we do. While I came in with a love for photography, the Medical Media department helped me refine those skills and apply them in a more professional and impactful way. Some of my photos were even featured on the official VA website, which was a proud and validating moment for me.

This past summer, I stepped into a leadership role as a mentor for incoming students,  guiding them through the program and helping them adjust to the hospital environment. I was honored to be recognized several times throughout the program, including during our closing ceremony. Along the way, I’ve built strong communication skills, gained confidence, and learned how to connect with both veterans and hospital staff in meaningful ways.

Volunteering at the VA has not only shaped who I am , it’s shown me how much small acts of service can matter. It’s given me the chance to grow both as a student and as a person. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve and to be part of something bigger than myself.