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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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Resources to Help Scam Victims Recover
Realizing that you have been scammed can be a devastating experience. In addition to the stress and worry caused by the theft of your money, victims often feel ashamed for falling victim to a scam. Many suffer a loss of self-worth, blaming themselves and questioning their own intelligence and decision-making ability. Romance scam victims may be especially hard hit, experiencing all the previously mentioned emotions while also grieving the loss of what they thought was a loving relationship. Recovering after being scammed can take time, but there are organizations that can help. Learn more about resources available to help victims of scams in the September issue of the Golden Gazette.
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Fall Women’s Sexual Violence Survivors Group Forming
Domestic and Sexual Violence Services offers a free, confidential group for adult women who have experienced sexual violence. New 10-week groups start every few months starting this fall. Learn strategies to cope with trauma, how to move forward, and how to form supportive connections with other survivors. Registration and an intake assessment are required. To learn more, email Counseling Services.
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Foster Care Unit Success Story: A Story of Resilience and Reunification
Check out this example of how a foster parent, a home-based worker, and a child’s extended biological family can form a community of support that enables a parent to be reunified with their child. This story also illustrates the power of resilience and the importance of a parent’s unwavering determination.
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Workforce Development Month: Unlock Your Potential
The northern Virginia region is nationally known for its strong technology, healthcare, and government fields, yet it also offers thousands of small, local businesses looking to thrive and grow. There are countless work opportunities and our Workforce Development professionals are here to help you reach your full potential. Some people just need one visit with our Centers to freshen up their resume and review interview skills, while others benefit from wraparound supportive services that complement job training and coaching. Whatever you need, we’re here to help you thrive.
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Adopt-A-Family for the 2024 Holiday Season
Are you looking to make a difference for a family in need this year? Our Adopt-a-Family Holiday Program is accepting donations from businesses, community organizations, and individuals to assist families that need help during the holiday season. Once Volunteer and Partner Services matches you with a family, you’ll receive the children’s wish lists along with toy and gift card ideas. Monetary donations are also welcome. Learn more about the Adopt-A-Family program and how to sign up.
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Hunger Action Month: Continuing the Conversation
September is ending soon, but families are still struggling to buy food in Fairfax County. Hunger is year-round, so keep the conversation going with friends, neighbors, colleagues, and your community. You never know who needs to hear about SNAP! We know there are children, families, and older adults who are missing out on SNAP and benefits that would help buy groceries and improve financial stability. Share our article about SNAP and important food access resources in the community to keep fighting hunger in Fairfax.
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How Does Safety Planning Work?
If you are in an unhealthy relationship, you can increase your safety and the safety of your loved ones through safety planning. And you can create this path whether you decide to stay in or leave a relationship beset with intimate partner violence. Learn more about ways to protect yourself from getting hurt.
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Friday, Sept. 27 – The Saving Claire Project – How Falls Impact A Person’s Life
The Saving Claire Falls Prevention Project begins with a compelling documentary that delves into the complex nature of aging and the patterns that increase fall risk. Claire’s journey serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting her attitudes, actions, and the dramatic events that follow her fall. Sponsored in part by the Marymount Center for Optimal Aging (MCOA), the project continues with an interactive discussion and Q&A with a panel of professionals who will share their expertise on fall prevention. Join us on Sept. 27 from 2-3:30 p.m. Register to receive an email with access instructions. Learn more about programs and resources for older adults, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers.
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Mondays, Sept. 30-Dec. 16, 2024 – Free Parenting Classes (Parenting 12-18-year-olds)
Are you a parent with teenagers? Join our free parenting classes starting on Sept. 30 for those with kids ages 12-18! Learn how to communicate more effectively, understand your teen's developmental stages, and build their self-esteem. Classes will be held from 5:30-8 p.m. at Mt. Vernon Presbyterian Church, 3901 Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria, VA. Ready to sign-up or have questions? Contact us by email at or call 703-324-7720. Learn more about the variety of parenting classes available.
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Wednesdays, Oct. 7-Dec. 16, 2024 – Free Virtual Parenting Classes in Spanish (Parenting 12-18-year-olds)
Do you have kids who are 12-18 years old? This multi-week virtual parenting class offered in Spanish shows parents how to learn communication strategies, how to recognize each other’s needs, how to understand the developmental stages of adolescence, and ways to build their children’s personal power, self-concept, and self-esteem. Cultivar relaciones sanas con sus hijos. This class meets every Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. Ready to sign up or have questions? Contact the Parenting Education Programs by email or call 703-324-7720. Learn more about the variety of parenting class
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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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 Our weekly Career Resources Newsletter includes information on job leads, upcoming webinars and employment events.
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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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 The quarterly newsletter The Update covers helpful information and topics for persons receiving long-term care services and their caregivers.
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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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 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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