Family Services – Community Corner Newsletter

DEPARTMENT of FAMILY SERVICES

March 11, 2026

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.

March is Social Work Month – a time to recognize, appreciate, and celebrate the important work of social workers! Department of Family Services’ social workers are on the forefront of pressing issues facing our nation and working to uplift, defend, and transform our communities every day. Learn more about the work they do on behalf of children, families, people impacted by interpersonal violence, older adults, and adults with disabilities.

Summer Camp Resources for Foster Families

Believe it or not, it’s time to register for summer camps. These programs are such an important way for children to stay active, keep their minds engaged, and make friends while school is on break. If you are looking for a local camp guide, some affordable options, and some tips about preparing kids to go to camp, check out this article.

Workforce of Tomorrow: Host a Youth Intern this Summer 

Calling all employers! Give back to your community at no-cost to you and host a youth intern this summer through the Educating Youth through Employment (EYE) program. Interns between the ages of 16-24 spend six weeks with your business learning essential skills to support their future career. Employment Services matches youth with worksites based on their interests and provides support throughout their internship. Learn more about how to get involved supporting the youth in your community.

Limitations of Assisted Living

There may come a point in your life when you or your family members decide it’s no longer practical or safe for you to live in your home anymore. Perhaps the stairs have become too much, or the narrow doorways and hallways won’t accommodate a wheelchair. Maybe you need help managing your medications, doing your laundry, shopping, and preparing meals. There are many services available to help you to “age in place” and remain in your home if you wish, but another option is moving to an assisted living facility. This form of communal living can be more cost effective than paying for home nursing care, and it offers new opportunities to make friends, participate in group activities, learn new hobbies, and go on outings. Most important, it can offer peace of mind to your family members, knowing that you are safe and cared for. Learn what Assisted Living is NOT in the March issue of the Golden Gazette.

What Happens When You Call the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline?

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, please call our Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273 for resources and information about domestic violence, sexual violence, stalking, or human trafficking. Our Hotline Advocates can help. This is what to expect when you call.

Questions about parenting? We can help!

Parenting can be hard! But you’re never alone. Our parenting partners are just a call away to provide advice on child development, bonding, stress relief, and more. Parents, caregivers, and anyone working with kids can rely on the trusted support system at the Parent Support Line! Call 703-324-7720 or email BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov, Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Getting the Right Benefit at the Right Time 

Knowing what documents to provide when applying for or renewing SNAP benefits can help make sure you get the right amount at the right time. Providing proof of income and expenses like dependent care, housing (shelter), and medical costs can help maximize your benefits and could increase the amount you receive each month. You can provide documents by email, fax, mail, or at one of our secure drop boxes. Learn more about what to provide and help us spread the word about this important SNAP change.

Shelter House’s Pet Foster Program Brings Peace of Mind to Domestic Violence Survivors

If you love animals and are looking for a way to help vulnerable populations, becoming a foster volunteer to house an animal while their owner is in shelter might be the way to go. Volunteer Voices recently sat down with Chloe White, community engagement manager at Shelter House, to talk with Domestic and Sexual Violence Services’ long-time partner about this unique program. Check out this excerpt from that conversation.

Wednesday, March 18 – The Clay Lab: End of Life Conversations (Webinar)

Exploring the Dimensions of Aging lets users engage in a unique virtual experience to gain greater perspective and insight into working with older adults. In this webinar, on Wednesday, March 18 from 10-11:15 a.m., participates embody Clay as he and his family cope with his terminal illness and move into hospice care, learning how clear and caring communication can help with end-of-life choices and understanding what to expect in his final days. Register here.

Wednesday, March 18 – Investment Fraud for Caregivers

In this webinar, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, Carmen Clifford, Principal Training and Outreach Coordinator for the Virginia State Corporation Commission's Division of Retail Securities and Franchising (Division), will present information on investment fraud for family caregivers of older adults and people with disabilities. This webinar will provide an introduction to the Division and securities regulation in Virginia, tips for conducting research before investing, and an overview of the red flags of investment fraud. This webinar will take place from 12-1 p.m. Register online or call 571-407-6961.

Tuesday, March 24 – Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Volunteer Orientation

DSVS is looking for a few good volunteers! Sign up to learn about DSVS, the services the division provides, and the population it serves. Discover how volunteers can contribute to the DSVS mission and the application process. Orientation is free but registration is required. Multiple dates, starting Tuesday, Mar. 24, 2026, are available. Choose the one that works best for you.

Thursday, March 26 – Build Your Career: Construction and Trades Job Fair

Kickstart your career in construction and trades at the Build Your Career: Construction and Trades Job Fair on Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 12:30–3:30 p.m. in Alexandria. Participates will have the opportunity to meet directly with employers and training providers, learn about programs that get you started, and attend workshops to level up! Hosted by Fairfax County Employment Services, Northern Virginia Construction Careers Coalition, the WISH Center, and Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services. Register now!

Thursday, March 26 – The Beatriz Lab: Alzheimer’s Disease (Webinar)

Exploring the Dimensions of Aging lets users engage in a unique virtual experience to gain greater perspective and insight into working with older adults. In this webinar, on Thursday, March 26 from 2-3:15 p.m., participates embody Beatriz as she goes through the challenges of progressive Alzheimer’s Disease, seeing how it affects her communication, thinking, and emotional well-being, while learning ways to help her feel safe, supported, and maintain a better quality of life. Register here.

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!

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.

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.