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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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Mentoring Transforms Lives
January is National Mentoring Month and today, January 28 is Thank Your Mentor Day! Shaping one person's story can transform countless others. Let's take a moment to celebrate our mentors and the difference they have made in our lives! We are so grateful for the presence, support, and the profound impact our BeFriend-A-Child mentors have had on the lives of the mentees in our program. These mentors play a crucial role in sparking connections for our county’s vulnerable children. Learn more about the BeFriend program and consider becoming a mentor this year.
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Redefine Your Path: From Federal Expertise to Local Impact
Join DFS-Workforce Development for the first webinar in this new series for affected federal employees and contractors, designed to help you translate your experience to opportunities in local government. On Tuesday, February 3, from 10-11:30 a.m., local government leaders and experts in Accounting, Finance, Contracting, and Procurement will share practical insights and highlight the advantages of making local government the next step in your career. Don't miss the chance to redefine what’s possible in your career. Register now!
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Are You Being Harmed? Year-Round Help Is Available
Have you been impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, or stalking? Fairfax County’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Services division is here for you 24/7, 365 days/year. Call the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273. Learn more about how the Hotline specialists support survivors and the people who love them.
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Free Income Tax Preparation Services
Did you or your family make less than $69,000 in 2025? The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides free help preparing your tax return and maximizing refunds and tax credits. Visit one of the four VITA locations in Fairfax County to work with our VITA volunteers on your tax return. Plan your visit by knowing what documents to bring and viewing the full site schedule.
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What Happens (to Your Body) After You Die?
Many people are uncomfortable talking or even thinking about their death. This includes deciding what to do with your body after you’ve died. Because of this, families are often left to decide what to do with their loved one’s body, with little guidance from the deceased. There are many options to consider, and the decisions you make are influenced by factors such as your religious faith, cultural customs, personal values, and expense. Whatever you decide, remember that it is a final gift to your loved ones to make your wishes known in advance. To help you decide, learn about options in the January issue of the Golden Gazette.
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Exploring the Importance of Active Fathers
Bennie Herron, Father Engagement Unit supervisor, was the guest speaker for OKK Chapter Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated’s kickoff event for their Annual Achievement Week 2026. Herron addressed the crucial role fathers play in shaping the lives of their children and families. Learn more about this event and the opportunities with this program. Interested in reaching your full potential as a father? Check out our winter Dad’s Parenting Groups beginning February 10.
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Sexual Violence By the Numbers
Sexual violence happens a lot; in fact, every 68 seconds someone in the United States is sexually assaulted. Nearly 1 in 2 adult women and 1 in 4 adult men have experienced unwanted sexual contact in their lifetime, and more than half of those victims don’t report their assaults. Learn more about how sexual violence impacts the community.
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Mondays Starting Feb. 2 – Free Parenting Classes for Ages 12-18 years
Do you have kids who are 12-18 years old? This weekly parenting class shows parents how to learn nurturing communication strategies, how to recognize their children’s needs, how to understand the developmental stages of adolescence, and ways to build their children’s personal power, self-concept and self-esteem. Classes will be held from 6-8 p.m. virtually. Ready to sign-up or have questions? Contact us by email or call 703-324-7720. Learn more about all our parenting classes.
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Wednesdays, Starting Feb. 4 – Free Virtual Parenting Classes for Ages 0-4 years in Spanish
Parents with children ages 0-4 years old, check out this FREE virtual parenting class offered in Spanish. It helps parents understand child development, create nurturing parenting routines, master infant massage, and develop positive self-esteem in themselves and their children. Interested or know someone who might be? This class meets online every Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. Contact us by email or call 703-324-7720 to sign up or ask questions. Learn more about all our parenting classes.
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Thursday, Feb. 5 – Information Session with Fairfax County Dept. of Human Resources
Want to work for Fairfax County? Join the Department of Family Services - Employment Services, and representatives from the Department of Human Resources - Employment Division, on Thursday, February 5 from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Gerry Hyland Government Center for an overview of the job application and hiring process. Register here.
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Thursday, Feb. 5 – Teen Advocates Gameshow
Join the Fairfax County Teen Advocates as they host gameshow event to raise awareness about teen dating violence on Thursday, February 5, from 6-8 p.m. at the James Lee Community Center (2855 Annandale Road, Falls Church). This event, which will feature team-based competitions, cool prizes, and more, is free and open to Fairfax County teenagers and their families. Questions? Contact Debra Miller.
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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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