Thursday, May 21, 2026

Join Fairfax County Department of Family Services’ Adult & Aging Division to celebrate Older Americans Month at Nationals Park!

Mets vs. Nationals

3 p.m. Pregame Networking Event
4:05 p.m. Opening Pitch 
This event brings together older adults, adults with disabilities, family caregivers, dedicated aging service professionals, and organizations for a day filled with joy, connection, and community spirit.

Learn more and purchase tickets at https://bit.ly/2026OAM.

Have questions or need help purchasing tickets? 
Call Gabbi Leggett at 202-640-7697 or email Gabbi.Leggett@nationals.com

(by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services)

Many people today are busy, move often, and spend more time online than face to face. As social connections fade, older adults living alone are at higher risk for loneliness and health problems. At the same time, adults and families may miss out on support, wisdom, and a sense of community. You can help change this by reaching out to your older adult neighbors. Your actions can improve their quality of life and yours too.

1. Start by introducing yourself. Knock on their door, or leave a short note with your name, phone number, and a friendly message. If you have kids, let them draw a picture or sign the card.
2. Stay in touch. Set a regular time each week for a short call, text, or quick doorstep visit. You can also do things together, like taking a walk or attending an event in the community, such as a free concert at a local park or a program at the library.
3. Offer practical help. Some older adults hesitate to ask for help. If you want to offer help, try to be specific: “I’m going to the store. Can I pick up anything for you?” or “If my schedule allows, I’d be glad to give you a ride to the doctor or pharmacy.” As evidenced by this past winter, seasonal help is often welcome. You can offer to help rake leaves, shovel snow, or clear icy paths. During warmer months, you may offer to help with light yard work, water plants or move outdoor furniture. Remember to always ask if they want your help; never assume.
4. Help keep them safe. Make an agreement to check in if something seems off, like shades staying closed or lights not coming on. You can also plan for emergencies together. Help them make a list of emergency contacts and medications and know where nearby cooling/warming centers are located. Finally, talk about scams with your neighbor. Encourage them to call the Fairfax County Police non-emergency number or check with you before sending money or sharing personal information if something feels off.
5. Respect and learn from your neighbor. Your neighbor has a lifetime of experience and wisdom to share. Ask for their advice, stories, and opinions. Learn about their culture and traditions and share yours too.
6. Connect your neighbor to Fairfax County resources. If your neighbor needs additional help, you can encourage them to seek assistance and offer to help with their first call or website visit. Visit FairfaxCounty.gov/OlderAdults or call the Aging, Disability & Caregiver Resources Line at 703-324-7948, TTY 711, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. to learn about programs and services available to help older adults continue to live safely in their homes. 

These simple steps can help reduce isolation and strengthen your neighborhood. By reaching out, you will make your community a place where people of all ages feel seen, included, and supported.

(by Gwen Jones, Department of Family Services)

May is Adult Abuse Prevention Month in Virginia, an annual reminder to be aware of the signs of abuse and know how to report it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines elder abuse as an intentional act or failure to act that causes or creates a risk of harm to an adult age 60 or older. Abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse. Neglect and financial exploitation are also recognized forms of abuse. While not abuse by another individual, self-neglect shares some of the same signs as abuse and should be reported. 

According to the CDC, abuse, including neglect and exploitation, is experienced by approximately one in 10 older adults who live at home. According to Virginia’s Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services, 49,610 reports were made to Adult Protective Services during fiscal year 2025, an 8% increase from the previous year. In Fairfax, there were 3,177 reports in FY25, the highest number of reports across all 120 APS programs in the commonwealth. Additionally, an estimated $28.3 billion is lost each year by older adults due to financial exploitation.

There are steps you can take to help prevent the abuse of an older adult before it happens, including:

• Listen to older adults to understand their challenges and offer support.
• Check on older adults who may have few friends and family members.
• Help caregivers who have a problem with drugs or alcohol get treatment.
• Help overwhelmed caregivers by offering to stay with their loved one or connect them to services providing respite care, adult day care programs, or other assistance.
• Learn how to recognize and report abuse.

Look for these signs of abuse, neglect or financial exploitation, including:

• Unusual changes in behavior or sleep
• Fear, anxiety, or depression
• Isolated or not responsive
• Broken bones, bruises, welts, cuts, sores, or burns
• Untreated bed sores
• Unexplained sexually transmitted diseases
• Disheveled appearance, poor nutrition, or dehydration
• Lack of medical aids (glasses, walker, teeth, hearing aid, medications)
• Unusual changes in an older adult’s bank account or money management
• Unusual or sudden changes in a will or other financial documents
• Fraudulent signatures on financial documents
• Unpaid bills

If you suspect abuse, exploitation, or neglect of an adult who is 60 years or older or is 18 years and older and incapacitated, please report it. Learn more by visiting the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services website at dars.virginia.gov/safety-security/file-a-report. In Fairfax County, you can report suspected abuse by calling Adult Protective Services at 703-324-7450, TTY 711. Reports can be filed for people who live alone or with relatives or who are residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals, or group homes. If you report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation, your identity is kept strictly confidential, as required by state law (Va. Code § 63.2 1606). You don’t have to be certain abuse is happening to make a report. If something doesn’t seem right, it is better to make a report.

Learn more about the life-changing work of APS by watching “Every Senior Deserves Safety and Dignity,” a video produced by the Department of Family Services Adult and Aging division: youtu.be/8E4PUHOShTk

By helping to prevent abuse and recognizing the signs and reporting abuse, you can help improve the lives of older adults living in your community.

(by Crystal Goodwin, Department of Emergency Management and Security)

Hurricanes bring dangerous winds, heavy rain, flooding, and even tornadoes. Although Fairfax County is far from the coast, we still feel the effects, especially from heavy rain bands, flash flooding, and downed trees. The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30, with peak activity mid-August through late October. 

Know the alerts: a Hurricane Watch means conditions may develop within 36 hours; a Hurricane Warning means they are expected within 24 hours. 

For older adults, planning early is key. Sign up for Fairfax Alerts and keep a battery or crank-powered weather radio. Decide ahead of time whether you’ll need to evacuate and coordinate with family, neighbors, or caregivers. Pack an emergency kit with medications, medical equipment, important documents, and essentials you can grab quickly. 

Prepare your home by securing outdoor items, reviewing insurance coverage, and keeping an inventory of belongings. If you must evacuate, shut off utilities and bring your emergency kit with you. During the storm, stay indoors, follow trusted weather updates, and use an interior room if winds intensify. Do not go outside until officials confirm the storm has passed. Afterward, return home only when it’s safe. Avoid floodwater and check in with family or friends by text or social media. 

Find more information on general preparedness and hurricanes with our Community Emergency Response Guide (CERG): bit.ly/FFXCERG23. 

(by Katherine Hall, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)

For family caregivers of older adults and individuals with disabilities, managing various types of waste is a crucial responsibility that contributes to the safety and health of everyone involved and to the environment. Many family caregivers often wonder how to properly dispose of items such as medical supplies, incontinence products, expired medications, and prescription bottles. Below is information on how to properly dispose of these items, provided by the Fairfax County Solid Waste Management Program.

Unused or Expired Medication

• Never throw medicine in the sink or toilet. Instead, you can do one of the following:
• Mix your medications in a container with coffee grounds or kitty litter, then seal and throw the entire container in the trash.
• Take medications to Fairfax County Police stations with permanent drug disposal drop boxes. Some medical facilities and pharmacies also take back medications.

Tip: Check out the Controlled Substance Public Disposal Locations map to find a location nearest to you: bit.ly/4m0l0oP

Plastic Vitamin and Prescription Bottles

• If a plastic bottle is smaller than your hand – meaning you can wrap your hand around it – throw it in the trash. If you have a larger plastic bottle – such as a family-size multivitamin or a container of soluble fiber – ensure the bottle is empty, put the lid back on it if you have it, then put the bottle in your curbside recycling bin.

Tip: If you no longer have the lid to a plastic container, you can still recycle the container.

Needles and Syringes 

• Place sharp items, including needles and knives, in a rigid container like an empty laundry detergent bottle.
• Label it clearly with: "CAUTION - SYRINGES/NEEDLES. DO NOT RECYCLE!"
• Securely close the container with its lid and tape it shut.
• Throw it in the trash.

Diapers, Colostomy Bags, Catheter Bags, Condoms, Etc.

• First, empty any human waste into the toilet. Put the empty bag, diaper, etc. in a sturdy, leak-proof bag and throw it in the trash.

Sanitary Wipes (Baby, Hand/Body, Etc.)

• ALL types of wipes – even if the package says they are “flushable” – must go in the trash, not the toilet. Wipes do not dissolve in water like toilet paper, so they can end up clogging pipes, which can cause sewage to back up.

Sanitary Pads and Tampons

• ALL menstrual products must go in the trash. Used pads and tampons do not dissolve in the toilet. Tampon strings get tangled in our wastewater treatment plant equipment, which means they must be manually removed. 

Tip: Cardboard/Plastic tampon applicators cannot be recycled because they are too small, and in any case are contaminated after use.

If you have a question about how to dispose of something properly, visit FairfaxCounty.gov/publicworks/recycling-trash/residential-materials or call 703-324-5230. By following proper disposal guidelines, family caregivers of older adults and individuals with disabilities can ensure a safe environment that enhances the quality of life. 

Family Caregiver Learning Opportunities Hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging

Step Ahead: What Every Caregiver Needs to Know About Cancer 
Wednesday, May 20, Noon-1 p.m.
In this webinar, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, experts from the Ralph Lauren Center will share practical information on cancer prevention and early detection tailored for family caregivers. Presenters include Dr. Chiranjeev Dash, Director of Cancer Screening; Mary Mills, Nurse Practitioner; and Chris Leby, Men’s Health Coordinator. They will provide family caregivers with practical information on cancer prevention and early detection. The presentation will focus on increasing awareness and understanding of screening for colon, breast, prostate, and lung cancers, while helping connect people to care and providing support for healthier communities. Register online at bit.ly/CAREWEB1 or call 571-407-6961. 

(by Katie Patterson, Long-Term Care Ombudsman)

A person who lives in a long-term care (LTC) facility maintains all the same rights as an individual living in the community. A person living in a LTC facility gains additional rights as a resident, one of which is the right to raise formal grievances. A resident can present their grievances at any time to facility staff or any other person without fear of discrimination or retaliation. The facility must act promptly to help resolve the grievance, and provide a written decision to the resident, if requested. The resident also has the right to file a complaint with their local state licensing agency or the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. 

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 advocate for their rights to protect dignity, choices, and self-determination. The NVLTCOP is a resident-directed program that is available to assist with concerns about quality of care, and to educate the community about long-term care services. For more information about residents’ rights, grievances, or other nursing facility and assisted living concerns, please call the NVLTCOP at 703-324-5861, or contact the Ombudsman Program by email at NVLTCOP@fairfaxcounty.gov.

(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 April 15 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 summary of the findings of the last Community Assessment Survey of Older Adults, which helped inform the development of the SHAPE plan. The next Community Assessment Survey of Older Adults will be administered in June 2026. At the May 20 COA meeting, the COA will continue to work on the SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan.

COA Meeting - Wednesday, May 20, 1 p.m.

To learn more about the meeting and 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 Danielle Badra, Land Development Services)

Spring is the time of year when Fairfax County highlights building safety. International building codes and state building codes exist to ensure the integrity and safety of all building occupants in the county, for those in residences such as single-family homes to everyone frequenting commercial buildings such as offices and restaurants. To learn about building safety and health standards, permitting for decks and home improvements, and more, everyone is invited to participate in the first annual Building Safety Month Resource Fair on Wednesday, May 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Herrity Building (12055 Government Center Pkwy). RSVP to the resource fair here: bit.ly/41tZkIi.

The resource fair, sponsored by Fairfax County Land Development Services (LDS), will include classes offered to homeowners to learn more about the permitting process and about building decks. Partner agencies in the land development process from around the county will be setting up tables outside of the Herrity building to provide educational information about building safety. At 10:30 a.m., there will be a Building Safety Month proclamation delivered by Sully District Supervisor and Board Vice Chair Kathy Smith. There will be snacks and prizes available to residents who engage with the resource fair tables. 

According to the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, its purpose is “to protect the health, safety and welfare of the residents of the Commonwealth of Virginia, provided that buildings and structures should be permitted to be constructed at the least possible cost consistent with recognized standards of health, safety, energy conservation, and water conservation, including provisions necessary to prevent overcrowding, rodent or insect infestation, and garbage accumulation; and barrier-free provisions for the physically handicapped and aged.” One of the key agencies involved with the implementation of building codes in the county is Land Development Services. If you have ever needed a building permit to make home improvements, such as adding a new deck or enclosed porch, then you have experience with the Fairfax County land development permitting process.

We know it’s not the most fun part of improving your home; the fun comes when you invite your family and friends to enjoy the new addition. But the permit, plan review and inspection process ensure that all your loved ones you invite into your home are safe.

If you’re not able to attend the resource fair, you can learn about safety and permitting online: 

• Check if you need a permit for your project, visit FairfaxCounty.gov/landdevelopment/when-permit-required. If you do need a permit, navigate the permitting process by visiting the permit library, FairfaxCounty.gov/landdevelopment/permit-library.
• Make sure you invest time in hiring contractors who will do quality work for you. Safety is ensured by the hardworking professionals at LDS (and other county agencies) who continually train throughout their careers to learn the most up-to-date safety measures related to construction. Of course, building safety is also dependent on the registered designers and professional contractors who do the work on your home. For more information on hiring a trustworthy contractor, visit FairfaxCounty.gov/landdevelopment/hiring-contractor.
• To apply for construction permits you will need to use the Planning and Land Use System (PLUS) online permitting website. We have some great introductory videos for you to get started – youtube.com/@FairfaxCountyPLUS/videos.
• Discovering unpermitted work can be costly and frustrating. How can you be sure the work was done safely? If you are thinking about buying a new home in the area, make sure you do an address search to confirm there is no unpermitted work – ldip.fairfaxcounty.gov. 

If you need more assistance, feel free to visit the Herrity building for in-person customer service at Suite 324 or call at 703-222-0801.

During this building safety month, we thank construction workers, contractors, homeowners, building owners, and county staff for working together toward safe buildings and safe communities. 

(by Kristin Martin, ElderLink)

ElderLink Virtual Support Call for Family Caregivers of Older Adults, via Microsoft Teams
Tuesday, May 12, 7-8 p.m. 
Topic: Navigating Care with Mental Health Support. Caring for someone with a mental health diagnosis can come with unique challenges, requiring patience, understanding, and effective strategies. In this session, we’ll discuss ways to provide meaningful support while prioritizing their mental health needs and your own well-being. Learn tips for communication, managing daily care, and accessing helpful resources for navigating caregiving with mental health in focus. 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. Two new facilitated sessions added for 2026: The Clay Lab (End-of-Life Conversations) and The Beatriz Lab (Alzheimer’s Disease). 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.

• The Beatriz Lab: Alzheimer’s Disease (NEW); Tuesday, May 12, Noon-1:15 p.m. 
  Embody Beatriz as she goes through the challenges of progressive Alzheimer’s Disease, seeing how it affects her communication, thinking, and emotional well-being, while learning ways to help her feel safe, supported, and maintain a better quality of life.
• The Elder Safety and Well-Being (Preserving Physical and Psychological Health); Tuesday, May 19, 2-3:15 p.m.
  Through a series of three unique scenarios, you will embody older adults and care partners who are experiencing challenges related to Caregiver Burnout, Intervention and De-escalation, and Trauma-Informed Care.
• The Clay Lab: End of Life Conversations (NEW); Tuesday, May 26, 10-11:15 a.m.
  Embody Clay as he and his family cope with his terminal illness and move into hospice care, learning how clear and caring communication can help with end-of-life choices and understanding what to expect in his final days. 

(by the Fairfax Circuit Court Clerk’s Office)

Judgment lien scams are fraudulent attempts to trick residents into believing they owe money for court judgments or tax liens. Scammers often impersonate government agencies, courts, or “settlement services” representatives to pressure victims into paying money directly to them.

These scams are on the rise across Virginia and beyond, targeting individuals who may have had legitimate liens in the past – or none at all. Many times, the liens referenced in these letters already are paid or never existed in the first place.

How These Scams Work

• Victims receive official-looking letters claiming to represent a court, tax agency, or settlement service.
• The letters often reference “judgment liens,” “public judgment records,” or “distraint warrants.”
• Scammers demand immediate payment, often threatening legal action or property seizure.
• Contact information usually includes out-of-state post office boxes, 800 numbers, or vague email addresses.
• Some scams promote “tax settlement services” that are fake.

Watch for Red Flags

• Suspicious Terminology: Terms like “Distraint Warrant” or “Public Judgment Record.” Virginia does not issue distraint warrants, and the Fairfax Circuit Court Judgment Division does not mail any demands for payment.
• Out-of-State Tax Liens: Claims that a tax lien from another state was recorded in Fairfax Circuit Court. Fairfax County does not docket out-of-state tax liens without a new lawsuit being filed and a court order from a Virginia judge domesticating (enforcing) it.
• No Return Address or Generic Contact Info: Letters with only a post office box, toll-free number, or no verifiable government contact information.
• High-Pressure Tactics: Threats of immediate legal action, property seizure, or short deadlines to respond.
• Settlement Service Offers: Promises to “resolve” or “settle” liens for a fee, often when no lien exists.

What Legitimate Notices Look Like

• The Fairfax Circuit Court mails Foreign Judgment Notices when a judgment from another state is recorded in Fairfax, but these are informational only and never demand payment.
• Genuine court or tax department communications always include verifiable contact information and mailing addresses.
• Garnishments or other post judgment collection actions issued by the court will have a verifiable case number and contact information for both the court and the creditor.

How to Protect Yourself

• Do Not Pay Immediately: Never send money or provide personal information to unknown senders.
• Verify the Claim: Contact the Fairfax Circuit Court Judgment Division (703-246-4159), the Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov), or the Virginia Department of Taxation (804-367-8031 or tax.virginia.gov/contact-us) directly.
• Check for Red Flags: Look for suspicious language, vague threats, or unverifiable contact details.
• Keep Records: Save the letter, envelope, and any contact information for reporting to local authorities.

How to Report a Scam

• Fairfax County Circuit Court Judgment Division: Visit FairfaxCounty.gov/circuit/civil-case-information/civil-judgment for official judgment information or contact 703-246- 4159 to speak to a Judgment Clerk.
• Fairfax County Department of Tax Administration: Report tax related scams at FairfaxCounty.gov/taxes/tax-scam-warning.
• The Internal Revenue Service: Visit irs.gov/help/tax-scams/report-a-tax-scam-or-fraud to report IRS fraud.
• Virginia Attorney General’s Office: File a consumer complaint with their Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-552-9963 or visit oag.state.va.us/consumer-protection.
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Report scams at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
• Local Law Enforcement: If you believe you are being targeted, contact your local police department. In Fairfax County, contact the police non-emergency number at 703-691-2131 or file a report using the Financial Crimes Information and Online Reporting System (FiCOR) at FairfaxCounty.gov/police/HowDoI/FinancialCrimes. In the City of Fairfax, call 703-385-7924 (TTY 711) or send an email to police.information@fairfaxva.gov.

Judgment lien scams are designed to look official but rely on fear and confusion. By knowing the warning signs and verifying information through official channels, residents can protect themselves and their communities from fraud.

Remember: Courts and tax agencies will never demand immediate payment through suspicious letters or settlement services. 

Have you ever considered opening your home to a senior in need? Are you someone who thrives in a home environment? The Community Adult Residences with Empowering Support (CARES) program helps seniors and host families connect with one another in a mutually beneficial partnership. Jonathan Bell, Adult Services Supervisor with the Adult Services Department of Family Services, Mary Lee, the CARES Program Coordinator, and Rubina Jawiad, a CARES provider, talk about many aspects of the CARES program. Katherine Vu, a CARE program participant, describes how the program helped her.

Mature Living can be seen on Channel 16 or 1016 (depending on your service provider) on the following days and times:

• Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and 8 p.m.
• Monday at 5 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.
• Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 p.m.
• Wednesday at 11 a.m. and 9:30 p.m.
• Thursday at 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 p.m.
• Friday at 3:30 p.m. Saturday at 11 p.m.

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. 

(by Tanya Erway, Volunteer Solutions Recruitment Coordinator)

May is an ideal time to get involved in your community, and meaningful volunteer opportunities are available for individuals looking to share their time and skills. From hands-on repair work to educational support for adult learners to skilled support at senior centers, local organizations are offering flexible ways to make a tangible impact while connecting with others. For those seeking even more options, additional volunteer roles can be explored at bit.ly/FFXVOLUNTEER.

Fairfax County Public Libraries: Fix-It Clinics

Have a knack for bringing broken or damaged items back to life? If so, your skills are in demand. Support your community on Saturday, May 9, from 1 to 5 p.m. at one of four Fix-It Clinics, where residents bring small household items and receive free, hands-on help from volunteers to disassemble, troubleshoot, and repair them. It is a simple idea with a big impact: helping people save money, learn new skills, and keep useful items out of landfills.

Volunteers are needed to assist with repairing clothing, stuffed animals, electronics, small appliances, jewelry, and bicycles at Fairfax County Public Libraries. Whether you are experienced or just enjoy figuring things out, your time and talents can make a real difference. Sign up today at bit.ly/FIX-ITClinics and be part of a hands-on effort to strengthen and support the community.

The English Empowerment Center

The English Empowerment Center (EEC) office located in Falls Church, VA, serves adult learners who are building foundational English language and literacy skills. Through a combination of in-person classes at multiple locations and online instruction, EEC offers general English classes, targeted literacy development, and career-focused language programs. Volunteers play a vital role in helping adult learners take charge of their futures. By sharing your time and talents, you can help create meaningful opportunities for students to reach their personal and professional goals.

Whether you enjoy teaching, mentoring, or supporting programs behind the scenes, there’s a role for you. Volunteer opportunities include Teacher, Classroom Aide, Tutor, Assessment Assistant (helping with student placement test), Technology and Administrative Support, Registration Assistant, Special Event Support, and Student Advisor, with time commitments to fit your schedule.

Visit EnglishEmpowermentCenter.org to learn more and sign up.

Department of Family Services - Volunteer Solutions

Volunteer Solutions is seeking skilled volunteers to support Fairfax County senior centers. If you have a passion for fitness, art, music, languages, or other interests, consider sharing your talents with older adults in your community. Visit bit.ly/DFS-VS to explore available opportunities through the partnership between the Department of Family Services and Neighborhood and Community Services. For questions, contact VolunteerSolutions@FairfaxCounty.gov or call 703-324-5406.

If you wish to advertise a volunteer opportunity in a future edition, email Tanya.Erway@FairfaxCounty.gov. 

(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:

• Shepherd’s Center of Annandale/Springfield – call 703-941-1419; visit ShepherdsCenter-Annandale.org; or email shepherdscas@vacoxmail.com.
• Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke & South County – call 703-323-4788 (Fairfax-Burke) or 703-799-0505 (South County); visit scfbva.org; or email info@scfbva.org.
• Shepherd’s Center of McLean, Arlington and Falls Church - call 703-506-2199 x2; visit scmafc.org/volunteer; or email contact@scmafc.org.
• Shepherd’s Center of Northern Virginia (serving Oakton, Vienna, Reston, Herndon, Great Falls, Dunn Loring and Merrifield) – call 703-281-0538; or visit scnova.org.
• Shepherd’s Center of Western Fairfax County – call 703-246-5920; visit scwfc.org; or email scwfc.office@gmail.com. 

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. 

Curiosity Never Retires
Looking for a way to keep your mind active, make new friends, and find new adventures? Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at George Mason University (OLLI Mason) offers over 500 onsite and online courses every year, as well as regional outings, social events, and over 20 different clubs. Take as many classes as you want for one yearly fee. No homework, tests or papers, just the chance to rediscover what you love. For more information or to request a current course catalog, go to olli.gmu.edu or contact the OLLI Mason office at 703-503-3384.

Love to Play Softball? Join Us!
The Golden Girls of Northern Virginia, a senior women’s softball league, is looking for players. Woman over 40 at 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 goldengirls.org. 

Fairfax Care Partner Meet-Up
Friday, May 1, 10-11 a.m.
Fairfax Coffee, 11451 Braddock Rd., Fairfax
Monthly Care Partner Meet-Ups are an informal way for family caregivers to meet, chat, and get to know one another. Register at InsightMCC.org/events.

Movies That Move: “Wicked” 
Monday, May 4, 10 a.m. 
The Leila Gordon Theatre, 2310 Colts Neck Rd., Reston
Join Reston Community Center for a free screening of "Wicked," rated PG. For more information, visit restoncommunitycenter.com/event/movies-that-move-wicked. 

Nova ScriptsCentral Presentation on “Better Hearing and Speech Month”
Tuesday, May 5, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Wellness Center for Older Adults, 4027B Olley Lane, Fairfax
Learn early signs of hearing loss and speech disorders, when to seek evaluation, available treatment options, assistive devices, how certain medications may affect hearing, and strategies to support lifelong communication. Call 703-970-3601 to reserve a seat. 

Dance for Brain Health
Thursdays, 11:15 a.m.-Noon
Wellness Center for Older Adults, 4027B Olley Lane, Fairfax 
Areas of the brain that control memory and skills such as planning and organizing improve with exercise, including dance. This free class is appropriate for persons living with dementia, their caregivers and anyone interested in preventing cognitive decline. Call 703-970-3601 to reserve a seat. 

Meet the Artists: Olga Simonova 
Thursday, May 7, 2:15-3:30 p.m. 
The Leila Gordon Theatre, 2310 Colts Neck Rd., Reston
Free event hosted by Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and Reston Community Center. Olga Simonova, Russian American pianist, composer, and Reston resident, will perform her original piano compositions. For more information, visit restoncommunitycenter.com/event/meet-the-artists-olga-simonova-2.

55+ Wellness & Safety Expo
Friday, May 8, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
Vienna Community Center, 120 Cherry St. SE, Vienna
Hosted by Vienna Parks & Recreation, this event features over 50 vendors, including government agencies, nonprofits, and local businesses. There will be health screenings and giveaways. From 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Quinn’s Auction Galleries will appraise 1-2 items per person, first come, first served. 

OLLI Ideas Festival for Adults 50+ 
Friday, May 8-Saturday, May 9
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at George Mason University (OLLI Mason) invites adults ages 50+ to explore opportunities for lifelong learning, connection, and enrichment. Held on the Fairfax campus, the free, two-day event will feature more than 20 classes, demonstrations, and activities. Highlights include watercolor painting, tai chi, and chair yoga, as well as a panel discussion, “Global Perspectives on Longevity,” on Saturday, May 9 at 3 p.m. Attendees can attend individual sessions and one or both days. For more information and to RSVP, visit olli.gmu.edu.

Day-to-Day Care & Safety for Dementia Care Partners
Wednesday, May 13, Noon-1:30 p.m.
Insight Memory Care Center, 3955 Pender Dr., Suite 100, Fairfax
This class empowers families to enhance daily life by discovering the importance of effective routines, implementing home safety modifications, and learning valuable tips for personal care. Register at InsightMCC.org/events.

Memory Screenings
Monday, May 18, 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 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.

Tysons Library Book & Media Sale 
Thursday-Sunday, May 28-31, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Tysons Pimmit Regional Library, 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church
Shop a large selection of books and media for all ages and interests. Sunday bag sale -$10/full grocery sack or half price if less. For more information, visit tysonslibraryfriends.org or call 703-338-3307. Proceeds benefit the Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library and related activities. 

Fairfax Village in the City’s Friday Morning Speaker Series
Friday, May 29, 9:30 a.m. coffee; 9:45 a.m. presentation 
Stacey C. Sherwood Community Center, 3740 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax
Speaker Gabe Derosier, Director of Community Development, SVP, Main Street Bank, will speak on the subject of “Fraud & Scams: Protecting Yourself and Your Money.” For more information about this free event, call 703-385-5738 or email village@fairfaxva.gov.

Dates, prices, and times are correct at publishing. However, please confirm information using the phone numbers or websites provided.