(Posted 2025 November)
We are excited to share the incredible success of our Body Safety program at Ft. Belvoir Upper Elementary School, our first-ever partnership with Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) on a military base! This groundbreaking initiative gave us the opportunity to empower children with essential skills to recognize and report unsafe situations, understand what abuse is, and learn about the four main types of abuse. The central purpose of this program is to equip students with the tools they need to prevent or interrupt abuse, fostering their sense of safety, confidence, and agency.
Our visit to Ft. Belvoir was memorable from start to finish thanks to the incredible hospitality of the military staff. They ensured our team members received their visitors' passes without any delays and graciously guided us to the school itself. Their warmth, professionalism, and support of our mission created an environment where we felt truly welcome and ready to make an impact.
A central figure in the success of our program was none other than the school’s amazing counselor, Ms. Alex Habib. From designing the class schedule to thoughtfully coordinating every detail of our visit, Ms. Habib’s organizational skills, responsiveness, and unwavering support of the program were invaluable. In addition to ensuring everything ran smoothly, she was a delight to work with—welcoming, friendly, and fully committed to the wellbeing of her students.
This program also marked an exciting milestone for our team, as we brought together our core group of experienced facilitators, who led the classes, and welcomed our newest cohort of team members, who observed and learned how to deliver the curriculum. It was inspiring to see them engaging with students, learning the nuances of how these classes work, and preparing for their active roles in the future. We are absolutely delighted to have them join our team, along with two outstanding new interns, whose passion and energy have already begun to shine. Their contributions during this program were invaluable, and we can’t wait to see all the ways they will continue to grow and help us expand our impact.
Looking back on this visit, we are so grateful for the warm partnership and collaboration we experienced at Ft. Belvoir Upper Elementary School. Together, we are continuing to create a future where students are not just educated but empowered to protect themselves and others.
Thank you to everyone who made this milestone a success! Here’s to reaching more schools, serving more children, and continuing to make a difference in the lives of the students we are so fortunate to serve.
This article posting is part of The Volunteer Post Newsletter for current and potential volunteers, sponsors and donors interested in supporting children and families in crisis. Learn more about Fairfax County Department of Family Services' Volunteer & Partner Services Program (VPS).