In Fairfax County, we believe that strengthening and preserving families while focusing on their wellbeing is vital to building strong communities.
During National Foster Care Month in May, we recognize the important role that members from all parts of child welfare play in supporting children, youth, and their biological families.
We are especially grateful to foster parents for providing a safe, stable, and caring home for children, and helping them connect to permanent families through reunification, permanent placement with relatives, or preparation for adoption.
This year, the federal Children’s Bureau’s theme, “Engaging Youth. Building Supports. Strengthening Opportunities,” recognizes the important role that people from all parts of child welfare play in supporting children, youth, and families. This year's theme highlights the impact that strong supportive relationships have on improving long-term well-being for children and youth in foster care and the importance of providing concrete supports, appropriate interventions, and opportunities for youth. Learn more.
Learn about the Department of Family Services' Foster Care & Adoption Program.
2024 Fairfax County Foster Parent of the Year
Congratulations to Calvin Dyson! He has been recognized as the 2024 Fairfax County Foster Parent of the Year by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments. Calvin’s desire to make the world a better place led him to adopt two sons and foster additional children. Calvin is focused on making each child feel comfortable in his home by honoring their language and culture. He has worked hard to communicate across language barriers. Calvin has taken the boys to grocery stores that carry familiar foods from their home countries. In addition, Calvin has worked tirelessly with school personnel, social workers, therapists, and medical professionals to help his foster children. When Calvin receives calls about children in need of foster placement, he believes the children are not the sum of their behaviors and histories on file. He believes that with the right support any youth can be successful. Be inspired by this family’s story.