(Posted 2025 November)
At Volunteer and Partner Services, fostering strong community partnerships on behalf of the Department of Family Services is central to our mission. Whether collaborating with faith-based organizations, local businesses, private companies, or schools, these relationships enable us to extend DFS’s reach and positively impact the Fairfax County community in countless ways.
One particularly meaningful partnership has been with Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services. DFS and NCS are sister agencies with similar missions and visions who often work hand-in-glove in support of a connected community of thriving individuals and families. One aspect of NCS’ work is providing a variety of recreational, educational and developmental programs and services for all ages.
Expanding Rylynn’s Mission
The collaboration between DFS and NCS is enhanced by the important role of our very special four-legged team member—Rylynn, our agency’s trained facility dog. Rylynn helps provide comfort, support, and connection to children and families involved with our programs. Rylynn’s mission has expanded through our collaboration with NCS to make a wider impact in Fairfax County.
Together, VPS and NCS have brought Rylynn’s talents and calming presence to a variety of audiences, ranging from children in summer programs to seniors in adult day care centers, creating multi-generational benefits for the greater community.
Rylynn Brings Joy and Warmth to all Ages
This summer, Rylynn brought joy and excitement to children participating in the Therapeutic Recreation Services camps held at Kilmer, Key, and Liberty. These specialized camps offer engaging and supportive experiences for children, and Rylynn’s presence added another layer of connection and comfort as she greeted campers, displayed her impressive tricks, and gave out plenty of cuddles. Her visits left a positive and lasting impression on both the children and the camp staff.
Rylynn also brought her warmth and charm to older members of our community through visits to the Herndon Harbor Adult Day Health Care Center during the spring and the Little River Glen Senior Center in the summer and fall. During her time with the seniors, Rylynn provided a calming and interactive experience. Her visits helped to create moments of joy and connection that are especially meaningful for individuals who may be experiencing loneliness or isolation.
Most recently, Rylynn visited the Virginia Run Elementary School Age Child Care (SACC) Program during a teacher workday. Beyond the cuddles and tricks shared during her visit, children learned about the important role that service animals play in supporting individuals and communities. Rylynn helped spark curiosity, encouraged compassion, and demonstrated the value of service and connection.
The staff and children at Virginia Run SACC warmed Rylynn’s heart and filled her tummy by providing her with hand drawn thank you cards and homemade dog treats. It was a visit to remember!
A Shared Community Impact
The partnership between VPS and NCS demonstrates the incredible impact that can be achieved when agencies come together with a shared goal of serving the community. By joining forces, we’ve been able to expand Rylynn’s reach, allowing her to bring joy, comfort, and education to people across generations in Fairfax County. Whether it’s the excited laughter of a child or the peaceful smile of a senior, Rylynn has become a beacon of connection and care for everyone she meets.
As we look to the future, Volunteer and Partner Services is deeply grateful for our relationship with Neighborhood and Community Services and is excited to continue working together to explore new ways to serve our community. Rylynn will undoubtedly remain at the heart of these efforts, leading with her wagging tail and her uncanny ability to unite people in the most heartwarming ways.
To all our partners—NCS and beyond—we extend our heartfelt gratitude for supporting our mission. Together, we’re cultivating a stronger, more connected community, one visit, wag, and cuddle at a time.
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).