Department of Family Services Alert:
Edwyna Wingo: A Lifetime of Serving Her Community
Edwyna Wingo has always been a people person, eager to meet strangers, get involved and lend a helping hand. Her natural inclination to serve her community led to a successful career as a public health nurse. It also caused her to devote much of her free time to community service. Her care for others and desire to connect has resulted in a wide social circle and happy life. Read more.
Limitations of Assisted Living
There may come a point in your life when you or your family members decide it’s no longer practical or safe for you to live in your home anymore. Perhaps the stairs have become too much, or the narrow doorways and hallways won’t accommodate a wheelchair. Maybe you need help managing your medications, doing your laundry, shopping, and preparing meals. There are many services available to help you to “age in place” and remain in your home if you wish, but another option is moving to an assisted living facility. This form of communal living can be more cost effective than paying for home nursing care, and it offers new opportunities to make friends, participate in group activities, learn new hobbies, and go on outings. Most important, it can offer peace of mind to your family members, knowing that you are safe and cared for. Read more.
Power Foods to Prevent and Fight Colon Cancer
March is National Colon Cancer Awareness and Prevention Month, an opportunity to discuss prevention strategies for this common but often preventable cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States and while the overall lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is approximately 4%, individual risk varies based on personal and environmental factors. The good news is that colorectal cancer is preventable and treatable when detected early. Nutrition plays a vital role in reducing the risk of colorectal cancer and improving treatment outcomes. Read more.
Free Brain Health Workbook Available in Seven Languages
A free workbook, available in seven languages, used by Fairfax County senior centers and more than 300 partner organizations, is helping older adults improve their brain health. Anyone who wants to keep their mind sharp or engage with loved ones who are experiencing early memory changes can download a digital version of the StrongerMemory workbook for free or order a printed copy for $17.50. Read more.
(by Christine Reedy, Fairfax County Consumer Affairs)
Mark your calendars for National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), March 1-7, 2026! NCPW is a time when government agencies, consumer protection groups, and organizations like Fairfax County Consumer Affairs work together to share information about consumer rights, tenants’ rights and responsibilities, and help people learn to avoid scams. Learn more at consumer.ftc.gov/features/national-consumer-protection-week.
Fairfax County Consumer Affairs will be hosting outreach events throughout Fairfax County and sharing consumer tips on social media: facebook.com/fairfaxcountyconsumer. The full schedule is available online at FairfaxCounty.gov/cableconsumer/node/2366.
We invite you to join us and other organizations for Fairfax County Consumer Affairs Day on Monday, March 2, from 9 a.m. to Noon at Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax.
“Together, we are committed to ensuring that all Fairfax County residents have the tools and knowledge they need to understand their consumer rights, navigate the marketplace, and make informed decisions.”
– Susan Jones, Consumer Affairs Branch Manager
For more information, please contact the Fairfax County Consumer Affairs Branch:
Schedule of Events
Monday, March 2, 9 a.m.-Noon
Consumer Affairs Day
Fairfax County Government Center Lobby
12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax
Tuesday, March 3, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Consumer Booth
Lorton Community Center
9520 Richmond Highway, Lorton
Wednesday, March 4, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Consumer Booth
James Lee Community Center
2855 Annandale Road, Falls Church
Wednesday, March 4, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Consumer Booths
Herndon Senior Center, 873 Grace Street, Herndon
Jim Scott (Providence) Community Center
3001 Vaden Drive, Fairfax
Thursday, March 5, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Consumer Booth
Lincolnia Senior Center
4710 North Chambliss Street, Alexandria
Friday, March 6, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Safety Summit Scam Presentation
Reston Regional Library
11925 Bowman Towne Drive, Reston
Saturday, March 7, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Consumer Booth
Northern Virginia Housing Expo
Fairfax High School, 3501 Lion Run, Fairfax
(by Sharon Okrend, Fairfax County Public Library)
Are you thinking about digitizing your family photos, slides or home movies to preserve them for future generations? You can digitize these items and more at one of Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) six Memory Depots.
These reservable do-it-yourself (DIY) stations enable you to digitize several legacy formats. Simply register for a three-hour session to transfer your memories onto a USB flash drive or SD/SDHC memory card (maximum size of 32 GB for most devices). Currently, you can digitize the following:
The Memory Depot also offers the ability to convert your old 3” or 5” reel-to-reel films to MP4 movies. Please note that it is a lengthy process because the device scans frame by frame to create the digital file. For example, it will take you about 30 minutes to convert a three-minute film.
It is recommended that you attend an in-person or online orientation and read the step-by-step instructions first before registering for a session at the Memory Depot. Printed instructions are available both online and onsite. Register online or call a branch to sign up to use the Memory Depot at the following regional library branches: Centreville, City of Fairfax, George Mason, Pohick, Reston and Sherwood.
If you have limited technology skills, please consider bringing a friend or family member to help you with these DIY stations. More information is available at research.fairfaxcounty.gov/memory-depot.
Spring cleaning or decluttering? The Memory Depot can use your help! If you have a camcorder that you are willing to donate so that more people in the community can convert their movies, FCPL would be very happy to give it a good home at a Memory Depot. Bring your Video8, Hi8, Digital 8 or MiniDV camcorder to any library branch and ask that it be sent to the City of Fairfax Regional Library, Attention: Sharon.
Take advantage of this and other free services at FCPL. Learn more about what the library has to offer at FairfaxCounty.gov/library.
(by Katherine Hall, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)
Family caregivers can play an essential role in preventing scams and fraud and helping safeguard a loved one’s finances. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, older adults experience over $3 billion in annual losses due to fraud, highlighting a growing problem faced by this demographic in recent years. For family caregivers, it is important to stay educated about the latest financial scams targeting older adults and individuals with disabilities and to establish strong communication between trusted family members and the care recipient about financial activities. For example, having a family caregiver regularly monitor bank and credit card transactions can help catch potentially fraudulent activities.
By staying informed, family caregivers can safeguard their loved ones and ensure peace of mind. The Silver Shield Anti-Scam Program is an initiative designed to protect older adults from scams and fraudulent exploitation by providing education and support to both older adults and their caregivers. The program offers presentations and resources that raise awareness about common scams and financial fraud, while teaching strategies to avoid becoming a victim. For more information, visit FairfaxCounty.gov/familyservices/older-adults/volunteer-solutions/silver-shield. Family caregivers can also connect with local resources, such as those provided by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, to better protect those in their care.
If you would like to learn more about caregiving resources, please call our Aging, Disability, and Caregiver Resource Line at 703-324-7948 or visit FairfaxCounty.gov/OlderAdults.
Family Caregiver Learning Opportunities Hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging
Investment Fraud for Caregivers
Wednesday, March 18, Noon-1 p.m.
In this webinar, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency, Carmen Clifford, Principal Training and Outreach Coordinator for the Virginia State Corporation Commission's Division of Retail Securities and Franchising (Division), will present information on investment fraud for family caregivers of older adults and people with disabilities. Investment fraud causes billions of dollars in losses each year, and older adults are the demographic most susceptible. Knowledge and research are critical to avoid investment fraud. The Division regulates companies and individuals in the securities industry in Virginia, and conducts outreach to educate Virginians to reduce the incidence of investment fraud. This webinar will provide an introduction to the Division and securities regulation in Virginia, tips for conducting research before investing, and an overview of the red flags of investment fraud. Register online at bit.ly/CAREWEB1 or call 571-407-6961.
Consider subscribing to the monthly Caregiver Newsletter to receive emails to stay updated on workshops, support calls, events, and other valuable resources for family caregivers. Subscribe here: FairfaxCounty.gov/familyservices/older-adults/subscribe-caregiver-newsletter.
(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 February 18 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. In addition, the COA also heard a presentation on the Community Health Improvement Plan, a community-driven roadmap to improve health and well-being across Fairfax County. The plan focuses on four priority health issues: Health Care Access and Use, Food Access and Healthy Eating, Healthy Environment and Active Living, and Behavioral Health. At the March 18 meeting, the COA will continue to work on the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan.
COA Meeting - Wednesday, March 18, 1 p.m.
To request ADA accommodations, the meeting location, and to obtain meeting materials, visit FairfaxCounty.gov/familyservices/older-adults/fairfax-area-commission-on-aging/meetings and/or contact Linda.Hernandez-Giblin@Fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-324-5859, TTY 711.
(by Stevie Connor, Department of Family Services)
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is a national program sponsored by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to help individuals and families maximize their tax returns and avoid the fees businesses charge to prepare taxes. If you or your family earned less than $69,000 in 2025, you may qualify for this free tax preparation service!
In-person VITA services are available at several sites in Northern Virginia. Walk-ins are welcome, no appointments are needed. For more information, visit FairfaxCounty.gov and search “VITA.” If you have questions, email DFSVITA@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-533-5320 (please leave a message).
Northern Virginia CASH is a coalition of community partners who support the VITA sites in Northern Virginia. Since 2008 Fairfax County Department of Family Services has provided operational support to the coalition partners.
VITA Site Schedule
Alexandria
Gerry Hyland Government Center
8350 Richmond Hwy
Tuesdays and Wednesdays: 6-8 p.m.
Saturdays: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Through April 15
Herndon
Neighborhood Resource Center
1086 Elden St.
Thursdays: 6-8 p.m.
Saturdays: 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Through April 11
Reston
Reston Employment Resource Center
11484 Washington Plaza W.
Tuesdays: 3:30-7 p.m.
Saturdays: 9 a.m.-Noon
Through April 14
Virginia Career Works
Fairfax Annandale Center
7611 Little River Turnpike 300W
Tuesdays and Thursdays: 4-6:30 p.m.
Saturdays: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Through April 14
(by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services)
The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program provides free federal tax return preparation and e-filing by volunteers certified by the IRS. They also prepare Virginia returns. Although the program has no set income limit, Tax-Aide clients are generally people who are 50 or older or cannot afford paid tax preparation.
Tax Preparation Sites and Hours of Operation
See novataxaide.org for additional details about each site, including who to contact with questions and how to make appointments. The website also includes a checklist of documents to bring to your appointment.
Arlington Central Library
1015 North Quincy Street, Arlington
Tuesdays: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Thursdays: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Through April 14; Appointments and walk-ins.
Bull Run Regional Library
8051 Ashton Ave, Manassas
Mondays and Wednesdays: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturdays: 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Through April 15; Closed April 4
Walk-ins preferred; limited appointments.
Centreville Regional Library
14200 St Germain Drive, Centreville
Tuesdays: 4-8 p.m.; Wednesdays: 1-5 p.m.; Saturdays: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Through April 15; Appointments and walk-ins.
Chinn Park Regional Library
at Potomac Library for 2026
2201 Optiz Blvd., Woodbridge
Tuesdays and Thursdays: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Saturdays: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (only March 14 and 28)
Through April 14; By appointment only.
Columbia Pike Library
816 South Walter Reed Drive, Arlington
Tuesdays: 12-7 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Through April 14; Appointments and walk-ins.
Herndon Fortnightly Library
768 Center Street, Herndon
Mondays: 4-8 p.m.; Wednesdays: Noon-4 p.m.; Saturdays: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Through April 15; Appointments recommended.
James Lee Community Center
2855 Annandale Road, Falls Church
Tuesdays and Thursdays: 1:30-4:30 p.m.
Through April 14; Walk-ins only.
Jim Scott Community Center
3001 Vaden Drive, Fairfax
Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays: 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Through April 14; Closed March 31 and April 2; Appointments and walk-ins.
Mason District Government Center
6507 Columbia Pike, Annandale
Mondays and Thursdays: 1-8 p.m.; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays: 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Through April 15
Walk-ins welcome; Appointments available.
Reston Community Center
2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston
Tuesdays: 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Thursdays: 4:30-8:30 p.m.; Saturdays: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Through April 14; Appointments and walk-ins.
Sherwood Regional Library
2501 Sherwood Hall Lane (2nd Floor), Alexandria
Mondays-Saturdays: 10:15 a.m.-2 p.m.; Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays: 5-8 p.m.
Through April 15; Walk-ins only.
(by Crystal Goodwin, Department of Emergency Management and Security)
March brings warmer weather and longer days, making it the perfect time for a refresh and restock. As you begin your spring cleaning, take a moment to review your emergency plan and ensure your home, car, and workplace kits are fully stocked and easy to access.
Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 9. Although losing an hour of sleep is never pleasant, it serves as a helpful reminder to check the safety items around your home. Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors or install detectors if you do not have them. It is also a good time to go through your emergency supplies and replace anything that may have expired, such as canned foods, bottled water, masks, and medication.
These small tasks take only a few minutes, but they can make a big difference in keeping you ready for the unexpected. Emergencies like severe weather, medical issues, or sudden disruptions can happen without warning, and having a plan in place helps you stay calm and prepared.
For more guidance on staying ready, explore the Fairfax County Community Emergency Response Guide at FairfaxCounty.gov/emergencymanagement/cerg and step confidently into a safe spring.
(by Ashley-Ann Waaldijk, Disability Rights and Resources)
Each March, the nation celebrates Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM). DDAM highlights the importance of community inclusion and belonging for people with developmental disabilities. Join us in recognizing the talents, voices, and experiences of people with developmental disabilities and the many ways they strengthen our community.
The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) encourages everyone to get involved in raising awareness. You can share stories, create artwork, support inclusive programs, and advocate for policies that expand opportunities for those with developmental disabilities. To explore more ideas and resources, visit nacdd.org.
Fairfax County also offers many year-round supports for people with disabilities and their families. To learn more or get connected, please visit:
(by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services)
The non-profit Shepherd's Centers are sponsored by local area congregations, corporate partners, community groups, and individuals to serve adults 50 and older. The centers offer free transportation for medical appointments and non-medical needs (e.g. grocery shopping) for adults 50+ who live in their center’s service area and are able to independently get in and out of a car.
Shepherd's Centers need volunteers! Drivers are needed and can accept ride requests that work with their schedule. There are also other ways you can help. Contact the Shepherd’s Center near you to learn more about volunteer opportunities:
(by Tanya Erway, Volunteer Solutions Recruitment Coordinator)
Do you appreciate art and creativity? Whether you’re a painter, potter, crafter, or simply someone who loves the arts, there are meaningful ways to share your passion. Volunteering in the arts not only supports artistic expression, but it also enriches the community. Explore the opportunities below to find a role that fits your interests and availability or discover other volunteer options at bit.ly/FFXVOLUNTEER.
The Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton is a vibrant arts community housed in the historic buildings of the former Lorton Prison. They are looking for volunteers to be Volunteer Artist Building Reps (VABRs), which are essentially greeters, in the six artist buildings on campus – perfect for art lovers looking for a low-key volunteer opportunity. VABR shifts occur in the late morning and throughout the afternoon Wednesday through Sunday. After a required training session, volunteers are asked to sign up for at least two shifts per month. Scheduling is very flexible. Email Volunteer@WorkhouseArts.org for more information.
Fairfax County Senior Centers, operated by Neighborhood and Community Services, offer social, educational and enrichment opportunities for adults aged 50 and over. Volunteers play a vital role in supporting these programs. Volunteer instructors and assistants are needed during weekdays for painting, ceramics, jewelry-making, crafts, woodworking, sewing and more. To learn more and sign up for a volunteer role, visit bit.ly/SeniorCtrOpps for the full list. Questions? Email VolunteerSolutions@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 703-324-5406.
The Virtual Center for Active Adults (VCAA) is looking for volunteers to lead activities for older adults and adults with disabilities via scheduled ZOOM sessions supported by staff. Virtual programs generally run 9 a.m.-3 p.m. weekdays, depending on available timeslots. The goal of the VCAA is to enrich others’ lives while combatting isolation. Participants connect with each other, engage in a variety of activities and discover useful resources. To learn more about this virtual program and check out the list of activities, go to bit.ly/VCAA-NCS. Register at bit.ly/Vol-VCAA to volunteer.
If you wish to submit volunteer opportunities to be highlighted in a future column, contact Tanya Erway at Tanya.Erway@FairfaxCounty.gov.
(by Kristin Martin, ElderLink)
ElderLink Virtual Support Call for Family Caregivers of Older Adults, via Microsoft Teams
Tuesday, March 10,Noon-1 p.m. and 7-8 p.m.
Topic: Supporting Your Loved One to Age in Place Safely: Learn how to help your loved one stay safe and independent while aging in the comfort of their own home. In this discussion, we’ll explore practical tips for creating a safe living environment, supporting daily needs, and addressing potential challenges. Discover ways to empower your loved one to maintain their quality of life while aging in place. 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 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. 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, March 6-April 24, 10 a.m.-Noon
2740 Prosperity Avenue, Fairfax 22031
Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restrict their activities. This award-winning, eight-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.
Become a Fairfax County Board of Equalization (BOE) Member
If you are interested in serving in this compensated role, please send your resume or letter of interest via email to the Board of Supervisors Chairman’s office at chairman@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Apply today!
(by Katie Patterson, Long-Term Care Ombudsman)
A person receiving long-term care services has the right to receive individualized care. Services and activities should strive to attain or maintain a person’s highest practicable physical, mental and psychosocial well-being. Often this can be addressed in a person’s initial assessment and plan of care (POC). As each individual is assessed for services, many things should be taken into account, to include their life history, strengths, functional abilities and nutritional status.
Preferences regarding food, communication and daily routines should also be honored to enhance quality of life. Staff, family members, and the person receiving the services should work together in creating the POC to ensure all medical and non-medical issues are discussed and agreed upon. A POC can be updated at any time as an individual’s preferences or condition changes.
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 in order to ensure quality of care and quality of life. For more information about care planning or other nursing facility and assisted living concerns, please call the NVLTCOP at 703-324-5861, or contact by email at NVLTCOP@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Do you have a technology question or need help with a device?
The Fairfax County Department of Family Services offers free, in-person, one-on-one tech support for community members who are 60 and older, living in Fairfax County and the Cities of Fairfax and Falls Church.
Volunteer Solutions’ IT On-Call volunteers can assist with computers, printers, smartphones, tablets, Kindles, video-calling, social media, online searches, and more.
Interested in getting help? Email VolunteerSolutions@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 703-324-5406 to get connected.
Caring for a loved one is not easy. Many caregivers aren’t sure where to turn for encouragement and advice as they care for their loved ones, not to mention how to manage their own mental health and well-being. Delma Thompson and Deme Warner, both Social Work Case Managers with Inova ElderLink, talk about resources this program offers to older adults and family caregivers. Local resident Susan Smith shares her experience with ElderLink’s A Matter of Balance program and how it benefitted her.
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 preempted 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, email DFSGoldenGazette@FairfaxCounty.gov. All events must be received by the first day of the month prior to the issue month.
Love to Play Softball? Join Us!
The Golden Girls of Northern Virginia, a senior women’s softball league, is looking for players. Women 40+ are encouraged to join. All skill levels are welcome. We play most Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings in Vienna from May-July and September-October. For more information, please visit our web site goldengirls.org.
Fairfax County Consumer Affairs Day
Monday, March 2, 9 a.m.-Noon
Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax
Fairfax County Consumer Affairs shares information about consumer rights, tenants’ rights and responsibilities, and help people learn to avoid scams. Learn more about the event at FairfaxCounty.gov/cableconsumer/node/2366.
A Matter of Balance
Mondays & Thursdays, March 2-26, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Saint Matthew's Episcopal Church, 201 E Frederick Drive, Sterling
Sponsored by Reston Hospital Center, A Matter of Balance is designed to reduce the fear of falling and improve activity levels among older adults. Using group discussions and other activities, participants can reduce their fear of falling by implementing small changes that reduce their risk at home. Free but registration is required. Visit bit.ly/3Lz3ZEB or call 844-630-5295 for more information or to register.
Friends of Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library Quarterly Book & Media Sale
Thursday, March 5-Sunday, March 8, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library, 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church
Shop a huge selection of books and media for all ages and interests. Sunday is a bag sale - $10 for a full grocery sack or half price if less. Visit tysonslibraryfriends.org or call 703-338-3307 for additional information.
“Lights, Camera, Friendship on the Spectrum”
Sunday, March 8, 3 p.m.
Pozez JCC, 8900 Little River Turnpike, Fairfax
Closing night film and reception for the ReelAbilities Film Festival, a local film festival celebrating people with disabilities. This engaging docuseries follows a group of young adults on the autism spectrum who embark on transformative workshops and adventures under the guidance of instructors from the entertainment industry. Free tickets are available at reelabilities.org/greaterwash.
Socrates Café
Tuesday, March 10, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Tysons Pimmit Regional Library, 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church
A Socrates Cafe is a gathering where people from different backgrounds get together and exchange philosophical perspectives based on their experiences, using the cooperative dialogue of the Socratic Method. Register at librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov/event/15568714.
Traumatic Brain Injury Discussion Group
Thursday, March 12, 3-4:30 p.m.
RCC Hunters Woods, 2310 Colts Neck Rd, Reston
Join this free, supportive discussion group for survivors of traumatic brain injuries and their caregivers. Hosted by the Reston Community Center, this event repeats on April 9 and May 14. Registration required: restoncommunitycenter.com.
14th Annual McLean Chocolate Festival
Sunday, March 15, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean
Sample and purchase unique offerings from over a dozen regional chocolate vendors while enjoying a variety of entertainment. Admission is $3 and proceeds benefit causes supported by the festival’s host, the Rotary Club of McLean. For additional information, visit mcleanchocolatefestival.org.
Better Brain Health as You Age
Wednesday, March 18, 1-2 p.m.
Free, virtual event hosted by the Reston Community Center via MS Teams. Learn how to keep your brain active as you age to reduce the risk of age-related diseases and maintain cognitive abilities. Registration required: restoncommunitycenter.com.
Care Partner Bootcamp
Saturday, March 21, 8:30 a.m.-Noon
3953 Pender Dr, Suite 100, Fairfax
Join Insight Memory Care Center for a complimentary family care partner education event covering many essential caregiving topics. Register at InsightMCC.org/events.
CarFit
Saturday, March 21, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. (by appointment only)
Shenandoah University parking lot, 44160 Scholar Plaza, Leesburg
CarFit is an educational program that ensures that participants have the proper fit inside of their vehicle. During their scheduled appointment time, participants will receive information and resources from trained experts on how to enhance their safety in the driver’s seat. Sign up at hcavirginia.com/locations/reston-hospital-center/calendar.
Brain Fitness Time
Friday, March 27, 2-3 p.m.
George Mason Regional Library, 7001 Little River Turnpike, Annandale
Improve your brain health with fun exercises like sudoku, word puzzles, memorization games and more. No registration. For older adults. For more information, call 703-256-3800.
Lifetime Learning Institute of Northern Virginia Forum
Wednesday, Apr. 1, 9:30-11 a.m.
Little River United Church of Christ, 8410 Little River Turnpike, Annandale
Join LLI/NOVA for this free program. The speaker will be naturalist and ecologist Charles R. Smith. He will talk about his 30+ years of experience working in natural resource management. Register at llinova.org under Classes and Events tab. For more information, email admin@llinova.org.
Dates, prices, and times are correct at publishing. However, please confirm information using the phone numbers or websites provided.
Check out the past newsletters.
*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.