(Posted 2026 September)
Fairfax County marked a milestone moment for young adults in foster care as they gathered at the end of the summer for a joyful Class of 2026 Graduation Party themed “Oh, the places you’ll go!” Graduates, community partners, guests, and Department of Family Services Foster Care and Adoption staff came together to celebrate perseverance, achievement, and bright futures ahead.
A Day of Fun and Celebration
The celebration featured food, games, music, a caricature artist, a photo booth, graduation presents, and resource stations to help graduates prepare for their next steps. Afternoon presentations recognized sponsors, honored each graduate’s accomplishments, and offered encouragement for what comes next. Afterwards, graduates received gifts and enjoyed more time with friends, supporters, and staff.
This year’s graduates represent a powerful mix of resilience, talent, and determination — from new Certified Nursing Assistants and educators to future chefs , cosmetologists, and college students. Each young adult overcame challenges, set ambitious goals, and pushed forward with strength and grit. Their supporters described them as hardworking, kind, motivated, resilient, charismatic, and full of potential.
Congratulations to the 16 students we know will go on to higher heights!
Caring Community Sponsors
The celebration also highlighted the deep support of community partners whose generosity makes these milestones possible. Our Fostering Futures Unit could not have planned this event without your support. Thank You!
- McLean Bible Church
- Don’t Go Alone and Project Belong
- New Hope Church
- First AME Church of Manassas
- Hands and Hearts Reaching Out
- Bernie L. Bates Foundation
Looking Ahead
The Class of 2026 is stepping forward with confidence and a strong network cheering them on. We’re proud of everything they’ve accomplished — and even more excited for the futures they are building.
Now that you have met some of our teens, find out more about how you can be a part of their support system through volunteering, sponsorships, mentoring, or fostering a teen.