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DEPARTMENT of FAMILY SERVICES |
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 Welcome to the Department of Family Services' Community Corner. Our weekly newsletter, updated each Wednesday, provides information about upcoming events, parenting and wellness tips, programs and services, and more! Share these helpful posts with your family and friends.
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DVAC’s Ayaan Ali Wins Prestigious Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court Award
Ayaan Ali, victim advocate in the Domestic Violence Action Center (DVAC), has won this year’s Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court Partner Award for her tireless dedication to clients who have been impacted by interpersonal violence. “We are incredibly proud to have such a compassionate and dedicated staff on our team,” says Lydia Guirguis, Advocacy Services supervisor. Read all about this award and Ayaan’s win.
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Refocus Your Parenting Skills in the New Year
As we head into the new year, consider refocusing on yourself, slowing down, and taking the time to refill your cup and bring a more present mindset to your parenting. Our Parenting Education Programs offers classes for parents and caregivers with children of all ages beginning in January, February, and March. Check out the schedule and see if these might be an option for you to invest in yourself and build a community of support. Not enough time for a weekly class? Then consider joining our Parent Cafés on the second Tuesday of each month. Check out our website for the schedule of upcoming parenting classes and Parent Café topics.
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Artificial Intelligence: The Latest Tool of Scammers
You may have noticed that artificial intelligence (AI) has been in the news a lot lately. The applications and potential uses for AI have amazed the public while also stirring fierce debate. Proponents view AI as a valuable tool that can provide numerous benefits when used properly, while detractors warn of dire consequences if AI use isn’t properly regulated. Learn how scammers are using AI to enhance their scams, how to spot AI generated messages, and tips to protect yourself from scams in the December issue of the Golden Gazette.
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Men Can Be Victims of Domestic and Sexual Violence, Too
About 1 in 10 men report experiencing some form of interpersonal violence. But skewed representation of images and associated stereotypes leads to biases against men and inequities in the availability and distribution of resources for them. Learn more about how to better identify and support men who have experienced interpersonal violence.
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Foster Care Unit Success Stories: The Power of Positive Connection
The foster care professional assigned to a recent case worked tirelessly to find relatives who would be able to provide permanent care for two young children whose parents battled substance use and mental health issues. Check out the story of permanency restored for these children in an unexpected placement. Read more.
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Housing and Economic Support
Survivors of domestic violence are at increased risk of housing and economic insecurity when they leave an unhealthy relationship. Advocates at the Domestic Violence Action Center (DVAC) can help survivors understand their housing options, open a bank account, repair their credit, and more. Learn more about the resources the housing and economic support specialist at DVAC provides.
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Thursday, Dec. 21 – In-Person Fairfax Kinship Peer Support Group
These free groups are designed for kinship caregivers, raising a child or children for a family member or a friend, to connect with other families for support and encouragement. Support Groups are hosted and facilitated by Formed Families Forward, in partnership with Fairfax County Department of Family Services. This group meets from 6:15-8 p.m. at James Lee Community Center, 2855 Annandale Rd. Falls Church, VA 22042. Child care and dinner are provided for the in-person group meetings. Learn more or register online.
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Thursday, Jan. 4 – Virtual Fairfax Kinship Peer Support Group
These free groups are designed for kinship caregivers, raising a child or children for a family member or a friend, to connect with other families for support and encouragement. Virtual support groups are hosted and facilitated by Formed Families Forward, in partnership with Fairfax County Department of Family Services. This group meets from 6:30-8 p.m. Learn more or Register online.
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Tuesday, Jan. 9 – Parent Café: How to Support Your Children and Teens Struggling with Anxiety and Depression
Join us for a Virtual Parenting Cafe Tuesday, Jan. 9 from 6:30-8 p.m. to discuss How to Support Your Children and Teens Struggling with Anxiety and Depression. Topics will include what is your role as a parent, how to know what’s normal and what’s not, coping tools and strategies, the role of social media, maintaining your perspective and self-care. Fairfax County parents or guardians with children ages 0-18 years old are welcome. Sign up by sending an email or call 703-324-7720 to register at least one business day before the Parent Café date. Learn more about parenting resources.
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Multiple Dates, Jan. 2024 – Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Volunteer Orientation
In this introduction to Fairfax County's Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, prospective volunteers learn about opportunities to contribute to the agency's mission. Orientation includes a summary of the application process. Multiple dates and times are available in January; choose the best option for you. For more information, contact Tanisha Cox, DSVS volunteer manager.
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 Our monthly Foster Family Newsletter shares resources and experiences relevant to foster and adoptive parents, children in care, and the resource workers who support them.
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 Our Volunteer Post Newsletter provides a glimpse into the many ways to get involved in making a difference and supporting families in our community.
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Access Fairfax is a twice monthly newsletter sharing news, resources, and events for people with disabilities in Fairfax County. |
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 Please follow us on Facebook at Fairfax County Department of Family Services for news, events, tips, stories and training opportunities. We support families and county residents of all ages and stages of life. Join our community and engage with us through social media!
Join Us! Learn about career and volunteer opportunities in the Department of Family Services.
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The Department of Family Services (DFS) envisions a community where everyone lives their success story and thrives. DFS strengthens the well-being of our diverse community by protecting and improving the lives of all children, adults, and families through assistance, partnership, advocacy, outreach, and quality services.
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