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

DFS Celebrates Social Work Month

Empowering Social Workers

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, including providing services to our aging population, treating people affected by an ongoing opioid addiction crisis, and helping people find affordable housing and adequate health care.

Here are a few examples of the work they do on behalf of children, families, people impacted by interpersonal violence, older adults, and adults with disabilities:

  • Educate older adults, their caregivers and families about useful resources, preventative screenings, and assessments available to them.
  • Investigate reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of to determine if protective services are needed.
  • Provide support and resources to people impacted by gender-based violence.
  • Help protect children, prevent child abuse and neglect, and support families by helping them remain together safely.
  • Staff the Aging, Disability & Caregiver Resources Line and connect callers to services and programs that will help improve their quality of life.
  • Advocate on a systems level to ensure laws and policies are adopted so everyone can access such services.

Every day, social workers employed with the Department of Family Services provide invaluable services to the community. 

Meet DFS Social Workers


MEET SAM CARRICO AND RYLYNN

Rylynn and Sam OutsideWe are so “doggone” excited about this recent opportunity for Volunteer and Partner Services Supervisor, Samantha Carrico, and the Department of Family Services’ facility dog, Rylynn, to be guest speakers at the University of Lynchburg. Sam shared her experience working in Child Protective Services conducting forensic investigations of child abuse allegations and the role that Rylynn has played in supporting children and families. Learn more.

 


MEET SOME OF OUR SOCIAL WORK INTERNS

Volunteer & Partner Services InternsVolunteer & Partner Services is pleased to welcome three new interns to the program for the 2023-2024 school year. Get to know each of these interns, their goals and aspirations for the year and the future.
 


 


 

Interested in a social work career with Fairfax County? Learn about the value of working with Fairfax County Department of Family Services.


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