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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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Catch Up on Vaccinations this Summer
School is out for summer, but parents know preparing for the next school year starts now. Find out what immunizations are required by grade level for fall registration, and plan how you will access care during the summer months. Free or low cost medical visits are available through the Medical Care for Children Partnership Foundation and Federally Qualified Health Centers for Adults and Children in Fairfax County. Learn more!
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Spotlight on Parenting Education Programs Volunteer, Caleb Faber
Caleb originally reached out to the Department of Family Services last year to gather more information about the Parenting Education Programs for an assignment in his graduate program. As he learned more about PEP’s work with families, he knew that he had to get involved. Caleb called back the next day asking if he could volunteer, and the rest is history! Learn more about Caleb’s story and PEP’s impact.
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Violence Is Not Normal
Domestic and Sexual Violence Services is here for you, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call us on the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-760-7273. Can’t call safely? Text LOVEIS to 22522 to connect with the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Everyone deserves a life free from violence.
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Strengthening Bones One Bite at a Time – Nutrition for Osteoporosis Prevention
Osteoporosis is a condition where the bones weaken and become more fragile, leading to an increased risk of falls and fractures. Millions of Americans are affected by low bone density or osteoporosis. Good nutrition can help protect you against the onset of osteoporosis. Learn more about three nutrients that are vital for bone health in the July issue of the Golden Gazette.
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Meet the Employer: Harris Teeter
Call Our Parent Support Line
Our Parent Support Line is a great resource for parents and caregivers of children. Get help from our staff with parenting advice, support, and tips to navigate emotional and relational parenting issues. Contact the Parent Support Line 703-324-7720 or by email Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Learn more about how we provide support to parents.
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Pets Can Be Victims of Domestic Violence, Too.
Home should be safe for everyone, including pets. But nearly 50% of survivors of interpersonal violence report staying in a dangerous situation because they have no way to keep their pet safe. If you are in an unhealthy relationship and have pets in your home, it can be a good idea to make your pets part of your safety plan. Follow these suggestions to ensure all your loved ones have a path to safety.
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Friday, July 18 – The Dima Lab: Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease
Join this virtual training to “see through the eyes” of an older adult. Exploring the Dimensions of Aging simulates what it is like to be an older adult encountering challenges in everyday situations. Embody Dima as begins experiencing visual disturbances and changes in motor functions due to the progression of her Lewy Body Dementia. Find out how she and her family navigate coping with her symptoms. Learn about the early signs and progression of Lewy Body Dementia and important considerations for promoting independence, preserving dignity, and offering culturally competent care. Register online. Discover more programs and services from ElderLink.
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Saturday, July 19 – Summer Volunteer Appreciation Picnic
Enjoy good food and good company while Domestic and Sexual Violence Services celebrate all their volunteers have accomplished through hard work and dedication. At the Sully Community Center (13800 Wall Rd SACC Room (Multipurpose Room 2) Herndon, VA 20170) from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. For more information, contact DSVS Volunteer Manager Caroline Croghan.
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Friday, July 25 – Rhythms of Renewal - Healing Hearts Through Shared Beats - A Drum Circle for Family Caregivers
Join Michael Kenny, president of Creative Arts for Social Action, for a drum circle workshop that nurtures connection, wellness, and joy through rhythm. Family caregivers and their loved ones are invited to explore the healing power of sound and community. Whether you're caring for a parent, child, partner, or friend, this experience offers a meaningful space to recharge together with gentle rhythm-based activities accessible to all ages and abilities. No musical experience or instruments required. Grab some spoons and a pot, use body percussion, whatever you have that can make sound! (household items welcome!) This virtual intergenerational workshop is hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging. The workshop is scheduled from 12-1 p.m. Register online.
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Like this newsletter? We have more! Subscribe to get updates and tips specifically for caregivers, jobseekers, foster parents, volunteers, older adults, people with disabilities, and people living in assisted living or other long-term care facilities. You can also listen to our podcast, watch videos, follow us on Facebook, email us, or call us. Learn more and sign up today! |
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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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