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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DSVS is looking for a few good volunteers! Sign up to learn about DSVS, the services the division provides, and the population it serves. Discover how volunteers can contribute to the DSVS mission and the application process. Orientation is free but registration is required. Multiple dates, starting Tuesday, Mar. 24, 2026, are available. Choose the one that works best for you.

Kickstart your career in construction and trades at the Build Your Career: Construction and Trades Job Fair on Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 12:30–3:30 p.m. in Alexandria. Participates will have the opportunity to meet directly with employers and training providers, learn about programs that get you started, and attend workshops to level up! Hosted by Fairfax County Employment Services, Northern Virginia Construction Careers Coalition, the WISH Center, and Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services. Register now! 

Exploring the Dimensions of Aging lets users engage in a unique virtual experience to gain greater perspective and insight into working with older adults. In this webinar, on Thursday, March 26 from 2-3:15 p.m., participates embody Beatriz as she goes through the challenges of progressive Alzheimer’s Disease, seeing how it affects her communication, thinking, and emotional well-being, while learning ways to help her feel safe, supported, and maintain a better quality of life. Register here.

Mark your calendar for the Fairfax County Commission for Women’s annual Women’s History Month Breakfast on Friday, Mar. 27, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. This event is free, but registration is required. Questions? Contact Alexandra Hernandez.

Post-secondary students who self-identify as an individual with a disability are encouraged to apply for the John Hudson Internship Program, managed by Fairfax County Disability Rights and Resources. The internship program provides participants with on-the-job experience, professional development, and training opportunities. Paid, full-time summer internships, hosted by Land Development Services-IT and Alcohol Safety Action Program, begin in early June and go through August. Applications for the summer 2026 program are due by Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Learn more and apply.

Most victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, and child abuse do not report the crime. Many never tell anyone. It’s time to end the cycle of silence. Join Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Wednesday, Apr. 1, 2026, for #StartbyBelieving Day. For more information about how you can start by believing, contact Victoria Nevel-Babla.

Join us on Wednesday, April 1, from 6 to 8 p.m. for a free virtual workshop, “Building a Supportive Parenting Network.” Parenting is easier when you don’t have to do it alone. Connect with other parents and caregivers to share resources, talk about common challenges, and explore strategies for building a strong, supportive network. Any Fairfax County parents or guardians with children ages 0–18 years old can register online. For more information, email or call 703-324-7720. 

Dads, sign up for our upcoming virtual Dads Parenting Group to improve parenting skills and build better relationships! The majority of dads who completed Dads Parenting Groups increased or maintained positive involvement with their children. This 13-week course takes place from 6-8:30 p.m. starting Tuesday, Apr. 7. Fairfax County residents or dads with children living in Fairfax are welcome. Interpretation services are available for Spanish and other languages upon request. Learn more or sign up by calling 703-324-7720 or by visiting https://bit.ly/DFS-FE.

Join us on Wednesday, April 8, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Sherwood Regional Library for a free in-person workshop, “Healthy Relationships: Parenting with Empathy,” part of the Stronger Foundations for Parenting Workshop Series. Learn what empathy is, why it matters in parenting, and how to use effective communication to strengthen your relationships with your children. Participants will explore practical ways to model healthy, respectful interactions at home. Any Fairfax County parents or guardians with children ages 0–18 years old can register online. Prizes will be available for participants. For more information, email or call 703-324-7720.

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CHECK OUT OLDER POSTS!

March is Social Work Month – a time to recognize, appreciate, and celebrate the important work of social workers!

Department of Family Services’ social workers are on the forefront of pressing issues facing our nation and working to uplift, defend, and transform our communities every day. Learn more about the work they do on behalf of children, families, people impacted by interpersonal violence, older adults, and adults with disabilities.

Knowing what documents to provide when applying for or renewing SNAP benefits can help make sure you get the right amount at the right time. Providing proof of income and expenses like dependent care, housing (shelter), and medical costs can help maximize your benefits and could increase the amount you receive each month. You can provide documents by email, fax, mail, or at one of our secure drop boxes. Learn more about what to provide and help us spread the word about this important SNAP change.  

 

 

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newsletter graphicFoster Family News for Current and Potential Fairfax County Foster Parents – March 2026

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 March 2026 newsletter. This month we focus on summer camps, nurturing cooperation and confidence, and more.

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

Check out the March 2026 Golden Gazette, featuring Edwyna Wingo, who served her community for decades as a public health nurse. You’ll also learn about the limitations of assisted living, foods that may prevent colon cancer, 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 March 2026 issue to learn about our Volunteer & Partner Appreciation Event, the MLK Jr. Day of Service, and volunteers making an impact.

newsletter graphicVolunteer Voices Newsletter

The March 2026 issue of Volunteer Voices is packed with great content. Learn about Shelter House’s Pet Volunteer Foster program, meet Hotline volunteer Nikitha Yemisetty, check out our review of the Netflix documentary on Sean “Diddy” Combs, and help us observe Women’s History Month with this witty nod to women-centered friendships from Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda. Also get the scoop on 2026 self-care trends, register for free trainings and more.

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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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