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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Are you curious about becoming a foster parent? Hundreds of children in Fairfax County need a temporary loving home until they can safely return to their families. Our next virtual information meeting is by invitation only on Tuesday, July 8, at 6:45 p.m. Complete this short interest form for prospective parents. For more information check out our website. 

Join a virtual support call for caregivers on the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 7-8 p.m. The call on July 8 will be an open discussion, focusing on topics of interest to caregivers. The support calls provide a convenient, safe space for caregivers to learn, share, and connect with one another. Registration is required. A Microsoft Teams Meeting link and phone number will be emailed once registration is completed so caregivers can join virtually or by phone. Learn more about ElderLink programs and services.

Join the Dementia Friendly Fairfax Action Team for an in-person Dementia Friends Information Session and become a Dementia Friend on July 10 from 10: 30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Turn your new understanding of dementia into practical action that can help someone living in your community. Dementia Friend Champion Jessica Fredericksen, MSW, CADDCT, CMDCP, who also serves as the Director of Brain Health at Goodwin Living, will present. Located at Oakton Library, 10304 Lynnhaven Place, Oakton, VA 22124. Registration is required.

Join this virtual webinar presentation hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, as Dr. Aaron Blight shares a presentation that emphasizes the giving and receiving of care – not only for others but also for oneself – as imperatives for wellness. Blight is an assistant professor of Public Health at Shenandoah University and the author of “When Caregiving Calls: Guidance as You Care for a Parent, Spouse, or Aging Relative.” People who are caregivers usually offer themselves to others with little thought of recognition or reward. However, it’s important for caregivers to know that in addition to caring for others, they must also take care of themselves. This webinar is July 16 from 12-1 p.m. Register to receive an email with access instructions. Learn more about programs and resources for caregivers offered by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging.

Enjoy good food and good company while Domestic and Sexual Violence Services celebrate all their volunteers have accomplished through hard work and dedication. At the Sully Community Center (13800 Wall Rd SACC Room (Multipurpose Room 2) Herndon, VA 20170) from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. For more information, contact DSVS Volunteer Manager Caroline Croghan.

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CHECK OUT OLDER POSTS!

Cooling Assistance is a program designed to help keep vulnerable Fairfax County residents cool during the summer months. To be eligible, at least one household member must be: 60 or older, 5 or younger, or disabled according to Social Security, Medicaid or 100% Veteran’s Administration. Learn more about how to apply!

Mentoring plays a vital role in the growth and development of children. From building self-esteem to promoting educational success, the influence of a caring adult can be transformative. Volunteers are essential to providing children with the support they need to overcome challenges and realize their potential. Learn how you can help.

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Services
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Wellness

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newsletter graphicFoster Family News for Current and Potential Fairfax County Foster Parents – June 2025

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 2025 newsletter. This month we focus on the Foster Parents of the Year, foster parent appreciation, foster care annual statistics, and much more.

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

Check out the June 2025 Golden Gazette, featuring Dr. Russell Rayman, whose career as a flight surgeon with the U.S. Air Force took him all over the world and allowed him to witness significant moments in history. The issue also includes activities to try during Great Outdoors Month, information about the Virginia Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program 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 2025 issue for a recap of our Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, supporting foster care, and a volunteer spotlight. 

newsletter graphicVolunteer Voices Newsletter

Catch up with the Domestic and Sexual Violence Services volunteers! Meet Caroline Croghan, Domestic and Sexual Violence Services’ new volunteer manager, find out how reading can reduce stress, set your alarm to stream shows where Hollywood gets domestic violence right, and learn what Advocacy Services really does. Plus, watch a discussion about Juneteenth, see which volunteers will blow out candles this month, sign up for trainings, and more--all in the June 2025 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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