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

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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Learn how to become a dementia friend and turn your new understanding of dementia into a practical action that can help someone living in your community. Join this virtual session on Wednesday, December 11 from 12-1:15 p.m. After participating in a Dementia Friends session, participants can:

  • Describe dementia and know the most common type of dementia
  • State the five key messages about dementia
  • Explain one approach to effectively communicate with a person with dementia
  • Commit to an action as a Dementia Friend in your community.

Register to receive access instructions.

La exposición inaugural del Museo Nacional del Latino Estadounidense, “¡Presente! Una historia latina de los Estados Unidos” es una introducción a los conceptos, momentos y biografías fundamentales que destacan el legado histórico y cultural de los latinos y las latinas en los Estados Unidos. Durante esta presentación se explorarán nuevos objetos destacados en la exhibición. Regístrese aquí.

Registration is now open for Sexual Violence Tier One, a 16-hour training on understanding sexual violence, systems responding to sexual violence in Fairfax County, and resources available in our community. This training is for professionals, volunteers, and community members looking to learn how and why sexual violence happens; the impact of sexual violence on individuals, families, and communities; and how to support those impacted. It is free, but registration is required. For more information, contact Abby Picard.

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CHECK OUT OLDER POSTS!

The Public Assistance and Employment Services (PAES) division launched a new Community Outreach Request Form, so you can bring PAES to your school, resource fair, health clinic, or any other organization! We can talk to parents, colleagues, or community groups about ways to get financial and medical assistance to move from surviving to thriving. Working on your event schedule for January and February? Book us now!

Want to be a part of ending teen dating violence in our community? Join the Fairfax County Teen Advocates Program and make your voice heard!

As a Teen Advocate you can:

  • Champion a cause you care about!
  • Become a leader among your peers.
  • Make new friends who are passionate like you!
  • Plan impactful events and activities!

Ready to make a difference? Apply by Friday, Jan. 17, 2025.

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newsletter graphicFoster Family News for Current and Potential Fairfax County Foster Parents – December 2024

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 December 2024 newsletter. This month we focus on Angel’s adoption story, normalcy resources, and celebrating our families.


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

Check out the December 2024 Golden Gazette, featuring Jill Gerald, a lifelong resident of Lincolnia who is working to educate others about the rich history of Lincolnia. You’ll also learn how to discuss climate change with people with differing vantage points, what to do if you are the victim of identity theft, 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 November 2024 issue to learn about our Adopt-A-Family Holiday Program, our efforts to promote child safety, and VPS’s support for a community baby shower.


newsletter graphicVolunteer Voices Newsletter

Catch up with Domestic and Sexual Violence Services’ volunteer corps in the December 2024 issue of Volunteer Voices. Meet Hotline volunteer Suzan Orman, find out how Second Story and DSVS partner to support youth, boost your brain with a holiday word scramble, get connected with TED Talks, set your DVR for our media review, celebrate birthdays, and so much more.

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stock photo of employeesJoin Us! Learn about job opportunities in the Department of Family Services.
Fairfax Virtual Assistant