(Posted 2023 August)
Meet Allison!
Position: Assistant Program Manager of Adult Protective Services (APS), Fairfax County Department of Family Services
I joined the Department of Family Services (DFS) in 2017 as a Social Services Specialist III in APS. Over the course of time, I was promoted to Supervisor and then in January 2023, I was promoted to Assistant Program Manager. I am the direct support to the supervisors who manage our APS team. I meet with the supervisors to gain an understanding of the program needs, whether it be a resource for residents or training tools for staff.
I enjoy seeing our staff grow within their career interests and being able to help others in our community. Fairfax County is a large and diverse community, and you get to meet a variety of people from different backgrounds and experiences. Working with many people brings a unique element to the job as every person and circumstance is different and no situation is the same. Everyone I have worked with has been so supportive and collaborative, which is really welcoming and encouraging for an employee.
DFS is such a large agency that if you have an interest in expanding your career interests or diving into more professional development, there are several options. We also have many opportunities for growth and learning, which is what keeps me here. DFS is a resource dense agency, where you can see the impact, you make in the lives of our county residents.
Outside of work, I enjoy taking evening walks with my husband and our dog. I also find that doing something creative brings me peace whether it is gardening, baking or arts and crafts. Everyone needs down time to relax.
I attended James Madison University for my Bachelor of Social Work and the University of Nevada - Reno for my master’s in social work. I have worked within the APS field for more than 9 years. My previous work includes working with nursing homes, home health, and hospice. Prior to joining Fairfax County, I worked with adult protective services with a local government agency assisting vulnerable populations.
Get to know more about Allison’s career through this video spotlight.
If you have a passion for working with older adults, adults with disabilities and family caregivers, join our team!