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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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Nominations for Martha Glennan Disability Inclusion & Equality Award Due Oct. 17
Celebrate champions of inclusion and equality! The Martha Glennan Disability Inclusion and Equality Awards, presented annually, honor individuals, businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, and organizations that go above and beyond to advance equal rights and foster community inclusion for people with disabilities in the Fairfax area. Do you know a passionate advocate, trailblazing organization, or inspiring self-advocate who is making a real difference in promoting disability inclusion? Nominate them for the 2025 Martha Glennan Disability Inclusion and Equality Award, hosted by the Fairfax Area Disability Services Board. This is your chance to recognize their transformative impact and celebrate their dedication to creating a more inclusive community!
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Domestic and Sexual Violence Counselor Talks the Tenants of Healthy Relationships
One way to help prevent domestic violence is to provide tips on crafting healthy relationships, which is what domestic and sexual violence counselor Lisa Groat did with The County Conversation Podcast host Jim Person. Learn about some of the green flags that say, “this relationship is safe.”
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Stay Healthy, Stay Covered: Medicaid Can Help This Flu Season
October is a good time to think about getting your flu shot and other health care to stay healthy this winter. Health care costs can be scary, but there is affordable healthcare through Medicaid and other free or low-cost options in Fairfax County. It’s important for adults and children to get the care they need when feeling sick. Connect with a provider today so you know where to go if you do need care in the future. |
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Recognizing Our Kinship Heroes
Kinship caregivers are everyday heroes. They step up when family is needed most, ensuring that children stay connected to their roots and loved ones. During Kinship Care Awareness Month in September, Department of Family Services Foster Care and Adoption partnered with Citylight Church and Boost Others through Project Belong to honor these incredible families who have opened their hearts and homes to the children of relatives. Read more about this generous outpouring. Learn more.
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Fairfax Lions Club: Serving and Supporting the Community
For almost 75 years, the Fairfax Lions Club has served people through a wide variety of community service projects, fundraisers and donation drives. Fairfax Lions come from diverse backgrounds but are united in their commitment to kindness and making a difference in their community. Learn more about the Fairfax Lions Club and how you can support their work in the October issue of the Golden Gazette.
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Brighten the Holidays for Older Adults, Donate “Bundles of Comfort” Care Packages
This holiday season let’s make a difference for those who need it most. Many older adults and individuals with disabilities in our community are struggling to access basic necessities. Together, we can help bring them comfort and joy. Fairfax County’s Adult and Aging Division is hosting the “Bundles of Comfort” Holiday Care Package Drive. These care packages, filled with a new hat, scarf, mug, and hygiene items, will bring warmth and smiles to 350 individuals this season—but we can’t do it without you! Learn how to brighten someone’s holiday. Donations must arrive at the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging by Friday, Nov. 21, 2025.
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Hope Cards Offered in Fairfax County
Fairfax County participates in the Hope Card program, a way to enforce a permanent civil protective order and a handy wallet-sized resource for victims of family abuse, intimate partner violence, sexual violence or stalking. Learn more information about how the Hope Card program works.
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Parenting Can Be a Challenge, But We Can Help!
Parenting is no joke. It’s tough work! But you’re not alone. Need advice or just someone to talk to? Our parenting specialists are here to help with everything from child development (ages 0-18) to strengthening that parent-child bond. They’ll even help you find community resources and reduce stress. Call the parent support line for a trusted support system for parents, caregivers, and anyone who works with kids. Email or call us at 703-324-7720, Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
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Free Webinars for Job Seekers
Employment and Training hosts free webinars to help job seekers every month. Maybe you need to write a more effective resume – join us the second Wednesday each month! If your resume is strong but you struggle with the interview stage, sign up for The Art of Interviewing, hosted on the third Wednesday each month. Don’t have time during the week? View all of our pre-recorded webinars any day, any time.
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Oct. 8-Nov. 17 – Medicare 101 Workshops
Do you need to sign up for Medicare? Medicare 101 Workshops, led by the Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP), are for individuals and their care partners who will soon be eligible for Medicare or have Medicare and would like to learn more about it. Register for a Medicare 101 workshop, offered virtually or in-person. In-person workshops have limited seating. Registration is required. Learn more.
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Wednesday, Oct. 9 – Ageism Awareness Day
Aging is a universal, rich journey—one that can unite us when we overcome ageism and embrace its opportunities for connection and growth. Let's build a society that works for every generation! Learn more.
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Thursday, Oct. 9 – Ombudsman Day
We recognize our Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program on Oct. 9 for their dedication and advocacy on behalf of people receiving long-term care services. In addition to helping to resolve complaints against long-term care providers, the ombudsmen provide information to help consumers make informed decisions. Our volunteer ombudsmen visit residents in assisted living and nursing homes and provide counseling to help them resolve their concerns. For more information about the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program call 703-324-5861, TTY 711 or visit the Ombudsman webpage.
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Saturday, Oct. 11 – Coming Out Day
National Coming Out Day, a day dedicated to honoring the bravery of LGBTQIA+ individuals who decide to come out and live openly, is Saturday, October 11. Coming out is often the first step toward living authentically. Take time to support and help those in your life who have chosen to come out, and check the Human Rights Campaign's Coming Out Resources Center for information about living openly.
Learn more about how Domestic and Sexual Violence Services is an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community.
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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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