Department of Family Services Alert:
Sheryl Sims and the Fabric of Her Life – Art Quilting
Sheryl Sims is a progressive artist, passionate genealogist, and poetic writer. She cleverly weaves these skills to create family art quilts. Sheryl’s extraordinary gift to recreate her family’s roots in America was surprising to her. Although she holds a fine arts degree, it wasn’t until the pandemic that she realized her knack and love for art quilting. “It brought peace during a time of stress and soothed my soul,” she expounds. “It also allowed me to dig into my African American family history and depict my enslaved ancestors as human beings with grace and dignity. I also discovered my Quaker ancestry, reaching as far back as my 10th great grandfather,..." Learn more about Sheryl Sims' story and her art quilting.
Older Adults Choose Foster Parenting: Make a Difference for Youth!
Meet some older adult foster parents who are making a lasting impact for youth in Fairfax County and encouraging others to give it a try.
“At this stage in your lives, you have so many relationship skills, life experiences and abilities to make some real lasting changes for children, who through no fault of their own, are in such great need,” said Scott and Marie Kokotajlo. Learn more about older adult foster parents' stories.
Tax Scam Artists are Lurking at this Time of Year
The 2021 tax season is just beginning and, unfortunately, scammers are lurking again this year. Some of the scams are phone calls using a threatening tone stating that if you do not pay your delinquent tax bill, you will be arrested by local authorities. The scammers will use scare tactics to ensure that they will get you to pay, in most cases by requesting iTunes gift cards. Learn about tips to avoid the scams or tips for what to do if you do get scammed.
Older Adults Build Skills and Find Employment During Pandemic
Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), administered by the Fairfax County Department of Family Services, is continuing to enroll eligible unemployed adults ages 55+ to participate in on-site trainings with organizations that follow pandemic safety protocols. Alternatively, participants who prefer to stay home due to the pandemic may choose to participate in virtual training to prepare for on-site training and employment. Learn more about how SCSEP works, eligibility and how to participate.
Rebuilding Together Specializes in Accessibility Modifications
Rebuilding Together Arlington/Fairfax/Falls Church is a nonprofit that makes health and safety repairs for homeowners with limited incomes. Its teams of skilled volunteers help Fairfax County homeowners with accessibility modifications, home repairs, and overdue maintenance problems at no charge. Learn more about how Rebuilding Together is helping the community.
Kathy Jones and the Best Kept Secret In Fairfax – CERT
Meet retired Fairfax Area Agency on Aging employee, Kathy Jones. Throughout her life, she has cared for others in many ways. To those who know her, it came as no surprise when she decided to learn life-saving techniques from the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program. According to Kathy, it should no longer be the best kept secret in Fairfax. Learn more about Kathy's story and CERT.
(Information from the Fairfax County’s Disabilities Rights and Resources Unit)
To promote career development for individuals with disabilities, Fairfax County’s Disability Rights and Resources (DRR) unit hosts a fall and spring Disability Mentoring Day.
Traditionally held at the Fairfax County Government Center, the goal is to recognize the role of employing people with disabilities and their contributions to national economic prosperity.
Local high school students for more than a decade have been attending this in-person event. Last fall, however, a pivot to virtual was necessary. The new platform smoothly let students ask questions and learn about required skills for specific jobs. Representatives from human resources, information technology and administrative assistants fielded questions. An overview of the Employee Childcare Center and the Facilities Management Division rounded out the program.
To complement the day, stretching activities led by the Employee Fitness and Wellness Center relayed the importance of physical wellbeing and mental health.
A Northern Virginia Community College representative talked about self-advocacy and options for accommodations in an employment setting.
According to Claudia Vila, DRR unit manager, the virtual event was a success. They received positive feedback from students, speakers and teachers. One student described the event as a “once in a lifetime opportunity” while another remarked, “It was so cool, and I wish we could do this over and over again.”
Along with its partner, Fairfax County Public Schools, DRR is planning another virtual Disability Mentoring Day this spring. Find more at Disability Rights and Resources.
(Article by Giuliana Valencia, DFS Caregiver Support)
What we know about COVID-19 seems to be changing on a daily basis, and it can be challenging to keep track of new information and separate fact from opinion. Yet, it is important to be informed and take the right steps to support and protect those who we are caring for daily. For many family caregivers, COVID-19 has not only disrupted routines, but it also has added stress. Many are valiantly keeping those they care for safe and busy while waiting for the vaccination.
If you are wondering when and how to get vaccinated, visit Fairfax County COVID-19. This is where to find up-to-date information about the COVID-19 vaccine, testing, contact tracing, and much more.
This webinar explores how a stroke affects the brain, its capacity to fight back, and neuroplasticity’s role in recovery. The presentation helps to support family caregivers by sharing existing resources. Join us on Wednesday, March 17, 12-1 p.m., presented by Dr. Amanda Rounds, PhD, Rehabilitation Scientist, MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital and MedStar Health Research Institute.
Register online. Then scroll to “Free Events” or call 703-324-5484.
Many people grapple with the ethical dilemma of not being completely truthful with loved ones in certain situations. "Therapeutic fibbing” is when you tell a fib or bend the truth to fit the reality of a person who has dementia or other cognitive disorders to avoid increased agitation. Join us on Tuesday, March 9, from 7-8 p.m. to share your experiences, challenges, and successes.
Register online for this Zoom session and scroll to the Free Events. A link and alternate phone number to join by computer or phone will be provided once registered.
With so many gyms, community centers, and parks closed, it may be difficult for family caregivers and those they are caring for to stay physically active. Luckily, Fairfax County RECenters have reopened with social distancing measures in place at all nine locations.
Temperature checks are required for all RECenter staff, members and guests before entering the buildings, and everyone is required to wear a mask or face covering when not actively exercising. Directional signs help limit contact with others, and 30-minute intervals between reservations give staff time to disinfect equipment and high-touch surfaces before its used next.
If you are looking for a place to exercise while practicing social distancing, reserve your RECenter workout time online or call the RECenter of your choice or the Park Authority Registration Office, 703-222-4664. The office is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
(Article by Camden Doran, NVLTCC Department of Family Services)
Resident councils play a critical role in long-term care (LTC) facilities. However, many residents are unaware of their right to form councils or attend council meetings even if there is one. Please be aware that LTC facilities have explicitly documented standards and regulations for councils—it’s your right.
Resident councils allow residents to voice concerns, request improvements, provide support to new residents, and help make quality care improvements.
Although COVID-19 restrictions have impacted facility safety operations, under pre-pandemic circumstances, the residents have the right to determine if staff or other visitors may attend the council meetings or request to meet privately as a group.
Facility staff must provide a designated staff member, with council approval, to assist council members with their grievances and to act promptly with any concerns that are brought before them.
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 resident councils, or other nursing facility and assisted living concerns, please call the NVLTCOP at 703-324-5861, TTY 711, or send an email.
(Article by Diane Duke and Kristin Martin, ElderLink, Fairfax County Area Agency on Aging)
Fairfax County’s virtual chronic self-management programs are a series of free interactive group workshops that run for six weeks. They are tailored for individuals who are interested in learning how to live better by effectively managing ongoing health conditions and for caregivers who are dealing with caregiver stress.
Chronic Disease Self-Management
March 15- April 19, 10 a.m.–Noon. Free.
This program is for individuals interested in learning how to live better by effectively managing symptoms. Learn how to manage pain and fatigue, eat healthier, and remain active. Offered via Zoom. To register, call Dianne Duke at 703-324-7721 or register online.
Diabetes Self-Management Program
March 17- April 21, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Free.
This program is for individuals interested in learning how to effectively manage their diabetes or pre-diabetes. Learn how to maintain healthy blood sugar, menu planning, and preventing complications. Offered via Zoom. Register online.
Caring for You, Caring for Me.
March 23-April 20, 2:30-4:30. Free. Zoom.
This program is a blend of interactive support and education for caregivers of older adults. Participants report increased confidence and competence in their caregiving role. Contact Kristin Martin at 703-324-7577 or register online.
Call Diane Duke at 703-324-7721, TTY 711 for information on any of the above programs.
(Article by Jacquie Woodruff, Director, Livable Communities Development, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging)
The Fairfax Area Commission on Aging (COA) is an advisory board mandated by the Older American’s Act. Commissioners for the Fairfax Area Commission on Aging are appointed by the Board of Supervisors and the City Councils of the City of Fairfax and the City of Falls Church.
At its February 17 meeting, Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano presented “The Role of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office in Preventing Scams Against Seniors and an Update on the Office’s Priorities.”
The Office of the Fairfax Commonwealth’s Attorney is charged with the prosecution of crimes that occur in Fairfax County and felonies that occur in Fairfax City and the Towns of Herndon and Vienna. The office prosecutes both the violation of County ordinances and the violation of state statutes.
It also works with numerous law enforcement entities (Virginia State Police, Fairfax County Police, Fairfax City Police, Town of Herndon Police, and Town of Vienna Police) in investigations and response to questions concerning criminal law.
(Article from the Health Department)
People who live in the Fairfax Health District and are ages 65+ or are ages 16-64 with underlying medical conditions that place them at risk for severe COVID-19 are eligible for vaccination.
So are primary caregivers for persons with severe chronic medical conditions or with intellectual or developmental disabilities requiring a high level of daily care, who qualify as health care workers. Register for vaccine online. An invitation to schedule an appointment will be released to you as vaccine supply allows.
In the meantime, remember to keep wearing your mask, washing your hands, social distancing, and stay safe!
(Article by Courtney Arroyo, Emergency Management Specialist, Office of Emergency Management)
You may already know that floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. But, did you know floods are one of the top hazards in Fairfax County, too?
There are a few steps that you can do to prepare for flooding such as getting a flood insurance policy. Homeowner policies do not cover flooding.
Other ways to prepare is to protect your property by moving valuables to higher levels and cleaning gutters and drains.
If you end up in a flooding situation, listen to official information for directions. If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Sign up for Fairfax Alerts to get the most up to date information. Below are tips to consider when driving:
For more information, visit Fairfax County Emergency Management.
(Information from the Federal Communications Commission)
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the United States, phone scammers have seized the opportunity, using robocalls and text message scams, to offer free home testing kits, promote bogus cures, sell health insurance, and promise financial relief. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has created a COVID-19 Consumer Scams video in American Sign Language (ASL). The video can be accessed via the ASL Video Library or on YouTube.
The video contains information and tips for avoiding COVID-19 scams including:
Scammers often spoof phone numbers to trick you into answering or responding. Remember that government agencies will never call you to ask for personal information or money.
Do not click links in a text message. If a friend sends you a text with a suspicious link, call them to make sure they weren’t hacked.
Always check on a charity (for example, by calling or looking at its actual website) before donating.
If you think you’ve been a victim of a coronavirus scam, contact law enforcement immediately.
For more information and resources about the FCC’s efforts to inform consumers about COVID-19 scam calls and texts, visit the FCC YouTube channel.
(Information from the Department of Family Services Self-Sufficiency Division)
Due to safety precautions and health care guidelines during the pandemic, the IRS has determined the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for Elderly (TCE) programs will not be operating at full capacity, with many sites temporarily closed. There are other ways for eligible residents to receive free income tax filing assistance— online or by phone. For up-to-date information, visit Internal Revenue Service.
In past years, eligible residents in Fairfax County could go to a site and have their taxes prepared by volunteers. This year in-person services are not possible, but there is help online or by phone. The difference is in the word “help.” Volunteers are not able to file on your behalf, but they can help you do it. It’s called Facilitated Self-Assistance (FSA), available directly through the Internal Revenue Service.
FSA puts the taxpayer in charge of their taxes using free computer tax preparation software. IRS-certified volunteers will help. There are a variety of online resources and tax help at Internal Revenue Service, including tax forms, instructions and publications, online payment options, and to file with IRS Free File—free for most taxpayers.
The IRS Free File Program provides two ways for taxpayers to prepare and file their federal income tax online for free:
1. Traditional IRS Free File provides free online tax preparation and filing options on IRS partner websites. IRS partners are online tax preparation companies that develop and deliver this service at no cost to qualifying taxpayers. Please note, only taxpayers whose adjusted gross income (or AGI) is $72,000 or less qualify for any IRS Free File partner offers;
2. Free File Fillable Forms are electronic federal tax forms you can fill out and file online for free. If you choose this option, you should know how to prepare your own tax return. Please note, it is the only IRS Free File option available for taxpayers whose income (AGI) is greater than $72,000.
Visit Internal Revenue Service for more information.
(Information from the Fairfax County Department of Tax Administration)
Real estate and vehicle tax relief is provided by Fairfax County to citizens who are 65 or older, permanently disabled, and meet certain income and asset eligibility requirements. For an application, call the Tax Department at 703-222-8234, TTY 711. Returning applicants must file their taxes before Monday, May 3. Hours of operation are subject to change due to the pandemic.
Call 703-324-3007 for office hours. To learn more about tax relief and exemptions, call 703-222-8234.
(Information from Service Source)
The ServiceSource, Virginia’s Senior Services team is designing and implementing creative digital strategies to stay connected with participants who are unable to leave their homes during this pandemic. To help those they serve access the technology needed to take part in these activities, the ServiceSource Foundation launched the Technology Grant Program to provide tablets to older adults and people with disabilities who need them the most.
Contact ServiceSource if you are interested in supporting this initiative. Questions? Email Senior Services at VASeniorServices@ServiceSource.org or call 703-970-3636.
(Information from the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority)
The Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority and George Mason University’s School of Business are hosting the 2021 Fairfax County Housing Symposium, virtually via Zoom, on Wednesday, March 10, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
The theme is Affordable Housing: A Foundation for Strong Economies, Healthy Communities and Thriving Schools. The event will bring together local leaders, the business community, educators, housing industry and policy experts, neighbors and others as we elevate the conversation on affordable housing. Having a safe, and stable home is essential for residents of all ages and abilities to achieve their full potential and for Fairfax County to ensure a bright future with thriving communities.
Register at online to attend this event that will unfold how affordable housing impacts multiple areas of our community development and so much more.
(Information from The Department of Neighborhood and Community Services)
When the Virtual Center for Active Adults launched, one of the first classes was Close at Hand, a series of art classes that encouraged participants to use what was readily available to inspire and create drawings, painting and collages. Led by Sharon Fishel, McLean Project for the Arts, the class soon developed a loyal following by providing a creative outlet for those isolated in their homes.
Fishel has continued teaching on VCAA with her series, Painting and Mixed Media Mondays, and Drawing, Painting and Mixed Media Mondays. She helps students understand the “language of art” and to realize that everyone has the gift of creativity.
Encouraging creative self-expression is also the goal of the semi-monthly Arts for the Aging series offered by VCAA. Led by teaching artists, the workshops incorporate music, dancing, singing, and movement to create supportive environments where participants of all abilities engage in activities that sync the body and mind and allow for free self-expression.
Rounding out the creative offerings on the VCAA is Creative Corner. Each week, participants engage in a creative or craft-oriented activity. Recent classes include painting kindness rocks, making winter paper decorations, constructing hand puppets and knitting hats on a loom.
If you are interested in seeing some of the artwork created in these classes, visit the VCAA Art Gallery at https://bit.ly/VCAAart.
To see the full schedule of classes offered by the VCAA, visit http://bit.ly/NCSvcaa.
(Article by Bobbi Bowman, Fairfax County Black History Genealogy Group)
To find enslaved Black ancestors, family historians must research white masters as carefully and thoroughly as their own African American family members.
The search for my Black Virginia ancestors led me to white genealogical associations. There I found the white masters who owned my ancestors.
Researching Campbell County court records, I uncovered the extraordinary 1850 court case of my great-great-grandfather, William Williamson, a free Black man, who, with the assistance of his white slave-owning neighbors, fought a legal battle to keep his freedom.
Want to learn more? For Virginia ancestors explore “Using the Collections” on the Library of Virginia homepage. Ancestry Library Edition is available through March 31 from anywhere with your Fairfax County Public Library card. Do you have questions about genealogy? Email Laura Wickstead, Virginia Room Librarian. Ask about the African American Genealogy Special Interest Group.
The Shepherd Centers are a non-profit interfaith organization sponsored by area congregations, community groups, and individuals to serve adults 50 years and older. Its primary purpose is to provide services to assist older adults to continue to live independently in their homes and to offer programs for enrichment, learning and socialization.
Beginning Friday, March 12–19. Chamber Music from the Barns at Wolftrap, Arnaud Sussmann
Virtual, 7:30–9:30 p.m. Free.
The Chamber Music Society’s “Front Row” streaming concert series with Arnaud Sussmann. Program repertoire: Johann Sebastian Bach. For details, call 703-255-1900 or visit wolftrap.org.
Monday, March 15, Start a Spring Vegetable Garden
Virtual, 3–4:30 p.m.
Learn how to plan, plant and grow food in an environmentally friendly way. Extension master gardeners from Green Spring show you how to get the most out of your garden and enjoy home grown vegetables. Call 703-642-5173 to register.
Tuesday, March 16, Using Free and Commercial Resources to Solve the Problem, Mount Vernon Genealogical Society, Virtual Program, 1–3 p.m. Free
The internet with its search engines, databases and websites has changed how we do genealogy. Does this make books, CD’s, and original records obsolete? Join this meeting and let an expert walk you through the benefits of using all of these sources to find your family roots. Visit mvgenealogy.org and link to the Events page for more information and how to register.
Saturday, March 20, Drive-Through Shredding Event 7–11 a.m. Free.
Sully District Government Center
For procedures, accepted items, prohibited items and details, visit fairfaxcounty.gov/publicworks/recycling-trash/document-shredding
Thursday, March 25, Where the Crawdads Sing, book by Delia Owens, 1–2 p.m.
Virtual book discussion from Patrick Henry Library. Register at the Library Calendar.
Saturday, April 3, 9:30–11 a.m., Fairfax City Fishing Derby. $5 Per Participant.
Pond at 9817 Ashby Road. $5 per participant.
Bring a fishing rod, bucket, plastic bag and ice. Pre-registration required.
