Department of Family Services

CONTACT INFORMATION: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
703-324-7500 TTY 711
12011 Government Center Parkway, Pennino Building
Fairfax, VA 22035
Michael A. Becketts
Director

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Community Corner

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Welcome to the Department of Family Services' Community Corner. Our weekly newsletter, updated each Wednesday, provides information about upcoming events, parenting and wellness tips, programs and services, and more! Share these helpful posts with your family and friends.

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Check out the latest Community Corner newsletter!

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Become a Dementia Friend and make a difference in your community! By joining a Dementia Friends session, you’ll gain valuable insights into dementia and learn practical ways to support those living with it. Session will be held virtually from 12-1:15 p.m. Learn more and register.

Do you have kids who are 12-18 years old? This weekly parenting class shows parents how to learn effective communication strategies, how to recognize their children’s needs, how to understand the developmental stages of adolescence, and ways to build their children’s personal power, self-concept and self-esteem. Classes will be held from 6-8 p.m. virtually. Ready to sign-up or have questions? Contact us by email at or call 703-324-7720. Learn more about all our parenting classes.

Mark your calendar! Join DSVS for an afternoon of food, fun, and connection in the park at the Summer Volunteer Appreciation Picnic, Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 3-5 p.m. at the Providence Park Pavilion (10715 West Dr., Fairfax, VA). Enjoy refreshments, activities, and great company. Family and friends are welcome. Potluck optional; if you’d like, bring a favorite dish to share. For more information, contact DSVS Volunteer Manager Caroline Croghan.

Are you ready to become a more confident and effective parent? Join our free weekly parenting class starting June 15! This class is designed for parents with children aged 5-11 years old and will cover topics such as increasing empathy, encouraging appropriate behaviors, building positive self-concept and self-esteem, and having fun as a family. The class meets every Monday from 5:30-8 p.m. at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church in Springfield. Dinner and childcare are provided. Ready to sign-up or have questions? Contact us by email at or call 703-324-7720. Learn more about all our parenting classes.

Join this session of the NOVA Regional Fatherhood Workshop Series from 12:30-1:30 p.m.! It’s never too early or too late to start teaching body safety. Conversations about body safety can feel overwhelming for some parents to navigate, but these conversations are so important for raising safe and aware children of all ages.

Learn more about this series for fathers, father figures, and those who work with fathers.

Our free African American Culturally Focused Parenting Classes help parents and caregivers to share, learn, and find support with raising African American children. Families have a safe space to grow in their parenting skills, explore resources and share wisdom with one another. Open to Fairfax County parents or guardians, this class will be held in the Alexandria area on Tuesdays from 5:30-8 p.m. starting Jun. 16. Dinner and childcare are provided. Sign up by sending an email or call 703-324-7720. Learn more about all our parenting classes.

Registration for the summer session of Sexual Violence Tier 1, a 16-hour training on understanding sexual violence, systems responding to sexual violence in Fairfax County, and resources available in our community, is now open. The summer session is 8 a.m.-5 p.m., in-person at Northern Virginia Hebrew Congregation, 1441 Wiehle Avenue, Reston, VA 22190. This training is free but seats fill quickly, so sign up now. For full credit, all 16 hours must be completed. Questions? Contact Victoria Nevel-Babla.

Apply Now if you want to make a difference for a child and you are available on the weekends. The BeFriend-A-Child Mentoring Program is a great opportunity for you to shape a child’s future. You can even work around your schedule to spend time with your mentee. Build up a child’s social skills, increase their self-esteem and help them overcome challenges. The next training for new mentors will take place virtually on Saturday, July 11, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Learn more about the program or apply online.

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CHECK OUT OLDER POSTS!

Attend Fairfax County’s AccessAbility Fairfax on Thursday, July 30! This free event is designed to connect you directly with county agencies and partners, get personalized assistance, and discover valuable programs designed to support you and your loved ones. Learn about reduced-cost transportation programs, financial assistance options, housing assistance, mental health services, and emergency resources. There will even be a limited quantity of $50 transportation gift cards for qualifying attendees! Learn more.

The Fairfax County Commission for Women is seeking a college or high school student interested in serving on the Commission for one or two school terms. The student will serve as a voting member and help the Commission become more aware of issues facing young women and girls. The student will also inform students and school organizations about the work of the Commission. Eligible students must be 16 years or older and a resident of Fairfax County. The deadline to apply is June 30.

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newsletter graphicFoster Family News for Current and Potential Fairfax County Foster Parents

Our monthly Foster Family Newsletter shares resources and experiences relevant to foster and adoptive parents, children in care, and the resource workers who support them. Check out the June 2026 newsletter. This month we focus on the Family Fun Day, the Foster Parents of the Year, ways to support foster care, and more.

newsletter graphicGolden Gazette Newsletter Covers a Variety of Topics Concerning Older Adults and Caregivers in Fairfax County

Check out the June 2026 Golden Gazette, featuring the Vienna ROMEOs, a social group where retired men have lunch and meet new friends. You’ll also find out how to protect your health when the temperature soars, learn simple swaps for healthier summer snacks, and more.
 

newsletter graphicThe Volunteer Post Newsletter

We have many wonderful volunteers and donors helping children and families in Fairfax County. Our Volunteer Post Newsletter provides a glimpse into the many ways to get involved in making a difference and supporting families in our community. Check out the May 2026 issue for a recap of our Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, supporting foster care, and a Volunteer Impact Report.

newsletter graphicVolunteer Voices Newsletter

June is Men’s Health, Gun Violence Awareness, and Pride. See how Domestic and Sexual Violence Services meets the challenges presented by the diverse populations impacted by these awareness topics. Plus, get to know Larry Peacock, ADAPT co-facilitator and Hospital Accompaniment Support Advocate; and learn how the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court’s Domestic Relations Intake Unit works. Register for trainings, celebrate volunteer birthdays, and so much more—in the June Volunteer Voices.

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Department of Family Services logoThe Department of Family Services (DFS) promotes the well-being of the County's diverse community by protecting and improving the lives of children, adults and families through supportive services, education and advocacy.

Fairfax County Health and Human Services LogoThis Department of Family Services agency is a part of the Fairfax County Health & Human Services System (HHS). The HHS System is a network of county agencies and community partners that support the well-being of all who live, work and play in Fairfax County.

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