Department of Family Services Alert:
Elaine Miletta’s Lifelong Mission to Help Animals
Elaine Miletta is deeply devoted to improving the lives of animals. For most of her life, she has been involved in animal rescue, adopting and rehoming scores of dogs and cats. She is the founder of two nonprofits devoted to helping cats – Animal Allies and Pets Limited. Through her work, hundreds if not thousands of animals have been placed in loving homes or received the care they needed. Her love of animals even extends to wildlife. Her recent donation of 100 acres to the Wildlife Rescue League will allow wildlife rehabilitators to help many more sick or injured wildlife in the future. Read more.
Fairfax Lions Club: Serving and Supporting the Community
For almost 75 years, the Fairfax Lions Club has served people through a wide variety of community service projects, fundraisers and donation drives. Fairfax Lions come from diverse backgrounds but are united in their commitment to kindness and making a difference in their community. Read more.
Q&A with Marjorie Burris – Adult Day Health Care Program Manager
Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services is proud to offer four Adult Day Health Centers (ADHC), where persons with cognitive or physical impairments can have safe and engaging experiences – and caregivers can have peace of mind. We asked ADHC Program Manager Marjorie Burris, DNP, MSN, RN, a few questions about the program, its mission and its impact. Read more.
Keep Active and Social While Learning Something New
As we head into colder weather season, many of us like to stay cozy at home. But staying active and social is the best way to avoid the winter doldrums, keep our minds sharp, and have some fun. It’s also the perfect time to focus on ourselves; to reignite a passion, master a new skill, or simply enjoy the satisfaction of learning again. Read more.
(by Linda Hernandez-Giblin, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)
The Fairfax Area Commission on Aging (COA) is an advisory board mandated by the Older Americans Act. Commissioners for the Fairfax Area Commission on Aging are appointed by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and the City Councils of the City of Fairfax and the City of Falls Church.
At the September 17 COA meeting, the COA continued discussion on the implementation of the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan and Initiative Development Committees. SHAPE Initiative Development Committee meetings will be ongoing through the duration of the plan. Additionally, Fairfax County’s Department of Family Services’ Director, Dr. Michael Becketts, provided an update on agency services. At the October 15 meeting, the COA will continue to work on the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan.
COA Meeting - Wednesday, Oct. 15, 1 p.m.
In Person: Pennino Building, 12011 Government Center Pkwy, Fairfax, VA 22035 – Room 505
To obtain meeting materials, visit FairfaxCounty.gov/familyservices/older-adults/fairfax-area-commission-on-aging/meetings or contact Linda.Hernandez-Giblin@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 703-324-5859. For ADA accommodations, contact Linda.Hernandez-Giblin@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 703-324-5859, TTY 711.
(by Kendra Lee, Department of Family Services)
Quilting as activism has a long history in this country, starting with Quaker abolitionists in the 1830s to the AIDS Memorial Quilt in the 1980s, which is still displayed nearly 40 years later.
“You see quilting most recently in the Freedom to Be Monument, which was developed by trans activists to talk about trans rights,” says Abby Picard, prevention and education coordinator with Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (DSVS). “We know there’s a relationship between arts and social movements, including violence against women and violence broadly.”
It is in this spirit that DSVS’ Domestic Violence Awareness Month Community Quilt Project was born. This year’s theme, Crafting Healthy Relationships, seemed tailor-made for an art project of this scope. The idea is to have other Fairfax County Government agencies, community organizations, and nonprofit partners host their own quilting events. Members would get together during October with their organization, club, church, or just a few friends to talk about what a healthy relationship means to them. Then, using DSVS prompts and instructions, have that group create 10-inch x 10-inch quilt blocks.
Participants will be taking part in an age-old custom. According to Kathryn Harlow, Counseling Services supervisor and a practicing art therapist, in other regions of the world, sewing circles and quilting are popular as a means of connecting, speaking out, and sometimes healing.
DSVS may have come up with the project, but they won’t run the show. “We developed guidance for folks to host their own sewing circles – as well as drawing on folks already engaged in crafting or sewing – and will have them focus on this theme of crafting healthy relationships,” Picard says. “We hope our main partner is the community itself.
“The goal of a community art project is to draw connections with one another in the way we do art – highlighting the relationship between our community with one another but also recognizing the commitment to crafting healthy relationships. We hope the individual blocks tell a story, but also the connection in the way the blocks come together.”
Perhaps the best part about participating in a quilt block party: no experience is necessary. “The great thing about these art blocks is they aren’t functional,” Harlow says. “It’s not a pair of pants or a dress that has to fit. It’s ‘what’s the feeling, what’s the energy,’ while creating them.”
Groups creating quilt blocks will be directed to take photos of their quilt-making sessions to share on social media, tagging those photos with #CraftingHealthyRelationships and #DVAM2025. All blocks created during October will be collected and sewn into one big quilt, which will be displayed in Fairfax County libraries throughout 2026.
Completed blocks should be sent to Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, Pennino Building, 12011 Government Center Parkway, Suite 740, Fairfax, VA 22035, by Friday, Nov. 7, 2025. For more information about hosting a quilt block party, visit bit.ly/DVAM-QUILT.
(by Katherine Hall, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)
In October, family caregivers should consider Medicare and health insurance options for their loved ones by taking steps to ensure they are ready for Medicare Open Enrollment. The annual open enrollment period is October 15, 2025, through December 7, 2025, and offers family caregivers an opportunity to reassess the healthcare needs of their care recipients and help choose coverage accordingly, as those needs may have changed.
The Fairfax Area Agency on Aging offers great resources to help family caregivers navigate the open enrollment period through the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP). VICAP offers free, unbiased assistance that helps family caregivers understand Medicare benefits. Caregivers can learn more through the Medicare 101 and Medicare 102 webinars listed below and by contacting VICAP at 703-324-5851. Additional Medicare 101 workshops are being offered throughout October and November. See the full listing on page 7.
To learn about additional available resources for caregivers, call the Aging, Disability, and Caregiver Resources Line at 703-324-7948 or visit FairfaxCounty.gov/OlderAdults.
Virtual Dementia Friends Information Session
Wednesday, October 8, Noon-1:15 p.m.
Join this virtual presentation and learn how to become a dementia friend. Turn your new understanding of dementia into practical action that can help someone living in your community. Presented by Allegra Joffe, Supervisor with Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, and Diane Watson, Dementia Friends Champion Volunteer. Register online at bit.ly/DementiaFriendlyFairfax or call 571-407-6961.
Medicare 101
Wednesday, October 15, Noon-1 p.m.
This training is for individuals who will be eligible for Medicare and want to learn about their options. The session will provide an overview of the many components of Medicare: Part A (inpatient hospitalization/skilled nursing), Part B (outpatient hospital/doctors/labs/radiology), Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans), and Part D (prescription drugs), as well as how to cover the gaps in Medicare benefits through Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap). Register online at bit.ly/CAREWEB1 or call 571-407-6961.
Medicare 102
Wednesday, October 22, Noon-1 p.m.
This training is for individuals who are interested in learning more in-depth details regarding Medicare coverage. The session will provide an overview of advanced Medicare details, such as the Medicare.gov website, the latest regulatory changes, and key legislative proposals, as well as provide individuals with an opportunity to ask more complex questions. The latest Medicare updates for 2026 will be discussed. Register online at bit.ly/CAREWEB1 or call 571-407-6961.
(by the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program)
Medicare 101 Workshops, led by the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP), are for individuals and their care partners who will soon be eligible for Medicare or have Medicare and would like to learn more about it. Workshops are offered in-person or virtually. In-person workshops have limited seating. Registration is required. Registration for library events begins 30 days prior to the presentation date. Register online or call VICAP at 703-324-5851, TTY 711.
Wednesday, October 8, 2-3:30 p.m., In-Person
Thomas Jefferson Library, 7415 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church
For more information, contact Rebecca Wolff at 703-573-1060. Register online at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/14377222.
Friday, October 10, 12:30-2 p.m., In-Person
James Scott (Providence) Community Center, 3001 Vaden Dr, Fairfax
For more information, contact Cendy Ouber at 703-865-0520.
Thursday, October 16, 3-4:30 p.m., In-Person
Sherwood Regional Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria
For more information, contact Elizabeth Bermani at 703-765-3654. Register online at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/14398940.
Wednesday, October 22, 5-6:30 p.m., Virtual
Reston Community Center, 2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston
For more information, contact Cassie Lebron at 703-476-4500.
Friday, October 24, 2-3:30 p.m., In-Person
Mary Riley Styles Public Library, 120 North Virginia Avenue, Falls Church
For more information, contact Paula Hawkins at 703-248-5030. Register online at mrspl.org/event/medicare-101-25205.
Wednesday, October 29, 3-4:30 p.m., In-Person
Chantilly Regional Library, 4000 Stringfellow Road, Chantilly
For more information, contact Stephanie Hutchins at 703-502-3883. Register online at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/14357089.
Wednesday, November 5, 2-3:30 p.m., In-Person
Kings Park Library, 9000 Burke Lake Road, Burke
For more information, contact Emily Swain at 703-978-5600. Register online at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/14376506.
Friday, November 7, 2-3:30 p.m., In-Person
Lorton Library, 9520 Richmond Highway, Lorton
For more information, contact Kathy Richardson at 703-339-7385. Register online at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/14423252.
Wednesday, November 12, 12-1:30 p.m., In-Person
Reston Community Center, 2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston
For more information, contact Cassie Lebron at 703-476-4500.
Monday, November 17, 1:30-3 p.m., In-Person
Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library, 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church
For more information, contact Alicia Korker at 703-790-8088.
(by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services)
Congratulations to the Golden Girls of Northern Virginia, a senior women’s softball league, for winning gold at the 2025 National Senior Games! The team competed in the 50+ Division 3 category at the 2025 games, which were held in Des Moines, IA, July 24-August 4.
(by Kristin Martin, ElderLink)
ElderLink Virtual Support Call for Family Caregivers of Older Adults, via Microsoft Teams
Tuesday, Oct. 14, 7-8 p.m.
Topic: Caregiving Over the Holidays. Caregiving during the holidays can cause an already full schedule to overflow. To quote AARP, "For some family caregivers, the holidays can be a joyful time when spirits are lighter. It feels good to care for loved ones and enjoy time together, celebrating with family traditions. But for many the holidays also bring added stress – an already busy caregiver finds there’s even more to do during the holidays.” Join ElderLink’s October support call to share ideas and tips for navigating the holiday season with more joy and less stress. Register at tinyurl.com/CaregiverTSG or call the ElderLink Intake Line, 703-324-5374.
Exploring the Dimensions of Aging, via Microsoft Teams
Join Inova ElderLink and the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging for online training sessions to help family and professional caregivers. Using a training platform called Embodied Labs, you will see what it’s like to be an older adult facing real-life challenges. This unique experience will promote empathy and help you better understand and support older adults and caregivers. After the training, you will receive a license to use the Embodied Labs platform whenever you want, so you can keep learning. Register at tinyurl.com/exploring-aging.
A Matter of Balance
Fridays, Oct. 24- Dec. 12, 10 a.m.-Noon
2740 Prosperity Avenue, Fairfax
Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restrict their activities. This award-winning, 8-week evidence-based workshop is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. Participants learn fall prevention strategies through discussion and activities, as well as gentle exercise to strengthen balance, flexibility, and coordination. For more information, call Kathy Akindemowo at 703-324-9814, TTY 711. Register at tinyurl.com/AMOB123.
(by Tanya Erway, Volunteer Solutions Recruitment Coordinator)
As the leaves change and the air grows crisp, it’s the perfect time to turn over a new leaf by getting involved in your community through volunteering. Whether you're looking to give back, meet new people, or simply do something meaningful with your time, there are opportunities that match your interests and schedule.
Consider sharing your time with one of the organizations below or explore others at bit.ly/FFXVOLUNTEER.
Project Knitwell brings the comfort of knitting directly to people facing challenges in the community. Volunteers teach this soothing craft to patients, families, and medical staff – whether it’s helping a worried parent knit while waiting for their child’s surgery or showing a cancer patient a calming new stitch during treatment. They work with a diverse group including patients, caregivers, medical professionals, refugees, and students.
Whether you're a knitter ready to teach others or someone who loves organizing events and fundraising, Project Knitwell offers a unique way to make a difference in people's lives during some of their most challenging moments. They offer training and help each volunteer find an opportunity that suits their availability and interests. To apply, visit projectknitwell.org/volunteer or email info@knitwell.org.
Do you have a car and a few hours to spare each month? Fairfax County’s Department of Family Services – Volunteer Solutions is looking for caring volunteers to support older adults in the Alexandria, Falls Church, McLean, and Annandale areas. Volunteers are especially needed to help with grocery shopping or to provide social visits. These acts of kindness offer much-needed companionship and practical help to neighbors who may not have a support system. To learn more, visit bit.ly/DFS-VS, email VolunteerSolutions@FairfaxCounty.gov, or call 703-324-5406.
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI Mason) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit affiliated with George Mason University and part of the national Osher Lifelong Learning Network. OLLI Mason offers over 500 college-level courses each year – taught by volunteer instructors – for a community of more than 1,000 active learners age 50 and older. Classes, lectures, clubs, trips, and other activities are offered in person at the Fairfax campus, at satellite locations throughout Fairfax County, and online. Interested in becoming a volunteer instructor? Visit olli.gmu.edu/teach-at-olli or email program@gmu.edu to learn more.
If you would like to advertise a volunteer opportunity in a future edition, email Tanya.Erway@FairfaxCounty.gov.
(by Ann Kim, Disability Rights and Resources)
This October, the Fairfax County Department of Family Services is excited to host its annual Employment Mentoring Day event as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). NDEAM was first recognized by Congress in 1945 to celebrate the accomplishments of workers with disabilities and support fairness in job opportunities for everyone.
As we look ahead to America’s 250th birthday in 2026, this year’s NDEAM theme is “Celebrating Value and Talent.” It’s all about showing how people with disabilities bring meaningful skills to workplaces and our economy.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 78.5% of the working-age population (aged 16 to 64) without disabilities had jobs in July 2025, while only 41.6% of persons with a disability had jobs. These statistics encourage conversations about how we can improve job prospects for those with a disability.
Fairfax County’s Employment Mentoring Day aims to help students with disabilities explore careers in local government. The event, hosted by the Disability Rights and Resources (DRR) team and Fairfax County Public Schools, connects students with Fairfax County employees and gives the students tools and tips to prepare for future jobs.
In addition to this event, the DRR team runs programs year-round to support employment for people with disabilities. These include:
We hope these efforts inspire those with disabilities to identify a trove of opportunities and follow their passions.
To learn more, visit FairfaxCounty.gov/FamilyServices/Disabilities.
(Statistics from the Current Population Survey, Bureau of Labor Statistics.)
(by Katie Patterson, Long-Term Care Ombudsman)
Residents’ Rights Month is celebrated every October to honor residents in long-term care (LTC) facilities, such as nursing and assisted living facilities, and for consumers receiving LTC services in the community. Residents’ Rights Month is an opportunity to focus on and celebrate the dignity and rights of every individual receiving long-term services and support. Residents’ rights are guaranteed by federal and state laws and are critical components of quality care and of life for all residents. For more information about Resident’s Rights, and to participate in activities related to Residents’ Rights Month, visit National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care’s website at theconsumervoice.org/2025-residents-rights-month.
As a mandated program under the Older Americans Act, the Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (NVLTCOP) is often called on to assist residents and consumers to advocate for their rights to ensure quality of care and quality of life. For more information about residents’ rights, or other nursing facility and assisted living concerns, please call the NVLTCOP at 703-324-5861, TTY 711, or email NVLTCOP@fairfaxcounty.gov.
(by John Silcox, Fairfax County Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination)
Did you know that the average home loses $200-$400 annually due to energy waste? These losses are often caused by drafts, air leaks around windows and doors, and outdated heating or cooling systems, among other issues.
The Fairfax Energy Compass program is a FREE service in Fairfax County that connects homeowners with a dedicated local energy navigator. From identifying the most effective home upgrades to uncovering available rebates/incentives and linking you with trusted Fairfax contractors, we’re here to help every step of the way to make your home more energy efficient.
The program offers technical support and guidance for home energy improvements, such as high-efficiency heat pumps, insulation, window and door replacements, full HVAC upgrades, or even solar panels, which can significantly cut utility costs.
Save money on your bills, boost comfort, and strengthen our community grid.
Start your Fairfax Energy Compass journey today. To learn more, visit the Energy Compass webpage at FairfaxCounty.gov/environment-energy-coordination/fairfax-energy-compass or call 703-324-3721.
The Fairfax County Public Library has something for people of all ages. Resources that are especially helpful to older adults and those with disabilities are large format documents, the Talking Book Program, and the Home Delivery Program. Jennifer Tchida, Branch Manager; and Ginger Hawkins, Library Outreach Manager, both with Library Access Services, discuss these and many other resources available through the library system. Suzanne Lapierre, Virginia Room Librarian, shares information about this special branch of the library system, and two county residents talk about their experience with the library’s Talking Book and Home Delivery Programs.
Mature Living can be seen on Channel 16 or 1016 (depending on your service provider) on the following days and times:
Mature Living replays on Channel 16 may be pre-empted by Board of Supervisors, Board of Zoning Appeals, or Planning Commission meetings. Mature Living can also be seen On-Demand any time – visit: FairfaxCounty.gov/cableconsumer/channel-16/mature-living.
You can find information on services for older adults at FairfaxCounty.gov/OlderAdults or call 703-324-7948, TTY 711, Monday-Friday.
To submit an event for the Community Calendar, email DFSGoldenGazette@FairfaxCounty.gov. All events must be received by the first day of the month prior to the issue month.
Softball Players Needed!
The Golden Girls of Northern Virginia, a senior women’s softball league, is looking for players for their fall league – at a discounted rate! Women over 40 can join and all skill levels are welcome. We play most Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings in Vienna from May-July and September-October. For more information, visit www.goldengirls.org.
MPAartfest
Sunday, Oct. 5, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
McLean Central Park, 1468 Dolley Madison Blvd, McLean
MPAartfest 2025 is a one-day juried fine art and craft show/sale featuring the work of more than 40 local and regional visual artists. This free event features contemporary art, two performance stages showcasing musical talents, four children’s art tents, food vendors, and much more. For more information visit www.mpaart.org or call 703-790-1953.
Beacon 50+ Expo
Sunday, October 5, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Springfield Town Center
Community event for older adults featuring exhibitors and resources, health screenings, Flu/Covid vaccines, giveaways and door prizes. For more information, visit Beacon50Expo.com.
Fill the Bins: A Paper Shred and Food Pantry Stocking Event
Sunday, Oct. 5, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Lorton Community Action Center, 9520 Richmond Highway, Lorton
Dispose of your documents securely. Register for our free on-site shred event. Bring up to three boxes per car. Help stock the Lorton Community Action Center’s pantry by bringing a non-perishable food item. Arrive during your pre-selected hour to facilitate smooth traffic flow. Register by phone 1-877-926-8300 or online at events.aarp.org/FilltheBins1005.
Venture into Volunteering Fair
Sunday, Oct. 5, Noon-4 p.m.
Springfield Town Center (upper level)
Meet representatives from local organizations offering a wide variety of volunteer opportunities throughout the region. Visit bit.ly/VOLFAIR for more details.
Brain Gym
Friday, Oct. 10, 2-3 p.m.
George Mason Regional Library, 7001 Little River Turnpike, Annandale
Improve your brain health with fun exercises like sudoku, word puzzles, and more. No registration required. For more information, call 703-256-3800 or visit tinyurl.com/2s3kn8mr.
Reston Community Center's Fall Wellness Fair
Saturday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-Noon
RCC Hunters Woods, 2310 Colts Neck Rd., Reston
Join us for a free family-friendly event where you can explore a wide array of health resources, enjoy free screenings and access a range of wellness services – all in one place. For more information, contact LaTanja Snelling at 703- 390-6180.
Free Northern Virginia Virtual 50+ Employment Expo
Thursday, Oct. 16, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Age 50+ jobseekers - don't miss this online employment expo. Learn how to apply for a Fairfax County job and the DFS Employment and Training programs. Area age-friendly employers will also talk about their companies and openings and answer your questions. Register today at VirtualExpos.AccessJCA.org. For questions, email EmploymentExpos@AccessJCA.org or call 703-652-1518.
Golden Age of Hollywood Movie Matinee
Friday, Oct. 17, 11a.m.-1 p.m.
Burke Centre Library, 5935 Freds Oak Road, Burke
Watch a movie from the “Golden Age of Hollywood” (1920s-1960s). October's title is Strangers on a Train (1951) directed by Alfred Hitchcock. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/ym2j8wcy.
Community Symposium on Aging Well
Saturday, Oct. 18, 10 a.m.-Noon
The Kensington Falls Church, 700 W. Broad St., Falls Church
Explore exhibitor booths and connect with organizations that offer a wide range of resources and services designed specifically for seniors and their caregivers. Discover support and solutions in our community. For more information, call 703-844-1078.
Memory Screenings
Monday, Oct. 20, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Wellness Center for Older Adults, 4027B Olley Lane, Fairfax
Insight Memory Care Center offers free, in-person, confidential memory screenings and educational materials to people with concerns about their memory or who want to check their memory now for future comparison. Call 703-970-3601 to reserve a 30-minute appointment.
George Mason Friends Book Sale
Wednesday, Oct. 22-Sunday, Oct. 26
George Mason Regional Library, 7001 Little River Turnpike, Annandale
Preview sale, Wed, 5-8 p.m. Entry fee $20 per adult. General sale, Thurs-Sun, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Free. Browse a wide variety of used books, CDs, and DVDs. For more details, visit georgemasonfriends.blogspot.com or call 703-813-6616.
LLI Forum: George Washington – His Quest for Honor and Fame
Wednesday, Nov. 5, 10-11 a.m.
Little River United Church of Christ, 8410 Little River Turnpike, Annandale
Free event hosted by the Lifetime Learning Institute of Northern Virginia, an educational group for adults over 50. The speaker will be Peter Henriques, Professor of History, Emeritus, George Mason University. He has specialized in studying the life of George Washington and is author of several books about him, including, “George Washington: His Quest for Honor and Fame.” For more information, visit www.llinova.org or email admin@llinova.org.
Dates, prices, and times are correct at publishing. However, please confirm information using the phone numbers or websites provided.
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*Fairfax County is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in all county programs, services and activities. To request reasonable accommodations or to receive this information in an alternate format, call 703-324-7948 or TTY 711.