(Posted 2026 February)
One night last fall, the ladies of Zeta Phi Beta, in town for a leadership conference, honored long-time community partner Domestic and Sexual Violence Services. The two organizations have collaborated every October—Domestic Violence Awareness Month--for the last six years to gather donations to support people impacted by domestic violence.
Normally the Omicron Theta Zeta chapter of the sorority, jointly with Phi Beta Sigma fraternity, held a toiletry drive in South County, accepting diapers, skincare products, shampoo, hand sanitizer, and other sundries to distribute through Shelter House, the third partner in the triangle.
It’s been a successful partnership. “Through this partnership, Omicron Theta Zeta amplifies Zeta Phi Beta’s national initiative to confront domestic and sexual violence with courage and compassion,” says Nicole Woody, chapter president. “By standing beside Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (DSVS), we give voice to the unheard, bring awareness to the unseen, and serve as unwavering advocates for every survivor’s right to safety and dignity.”
But 2025 called for a change. Instead of limiting donations to a one-day drive (sometimes supplemented by an online wish list), the sorority decided to recognize DSVS at its conference, which was attended by Zetas from across the Commonwealth and Franconia Supervisor Rodney L. Lusk, whose wife is also a Zeta.
The recognition included presenting DSVS with a check and nearly 200 gift cards, the latter of which is particularly important to survivors of intimate partner violence because they give them a choice and voice in purchasing what they need. In a violent relationship, survivors are often controlled and left powerless and voiceless.
DSVS Division Director Keesha Coke and Assistant Division Director Angela Yeboah were in attendance to accept the honor. “We are grateful to the Zetas for this honor,” Coke said. “With these donations, we are able to support so many survivors in our community.”
That was exactly the impact the Zetas wanted. “Omicron Theta Zeta chose DSVS because our chapter calls us to uplift Fairfax County through meaningful service,” Woody said. “By standing with DSVS, we honor that commitment—supporting survivors, strengthening families, and showing what true community partnership looks like.”
Fairfax County’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Services division supports adults, teens, and children who have been impacted by domestic and sexual violence, stalking, and human trafficking. Services are confidential, free, and provided regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
If you or someone you know is experiencing interpersonal violence, call the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273 for resources and support. If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
This posting is part of the Department of Family Services' Community Corner where you’ll find timely information about upcoming events, parenting and wellness tips, programs and services, and more! Share these helpful posts with your friends and family. Don't miss out on future postings! Sign up today!