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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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The 2026 NOVA Regional Fatherhood Workshop Series Returns
All Northern Virginia fathers, father figures, and those who work with fathers are invited to these virtual discussions about mental and physical health, parenting and relationship skills, and access to community resources. If you or your child live in Northern Virginia, you are welcome to join any sessions, Tuesday afternoons in June from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Learn more about these workshops and other events this Fatherhood Month!
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The Fairfax County Commission for Women Seeks Student Rep
The Fairfax County Commission for Women is seeking a college or high school student interested in serving on the Commission for one or two school terms. The student will serve as a voting member and help the Commission become more aware of issues facing young women and girls. The student will also inform students and school organizations about the work of the Commission. Eligible students must be 16 years or older and a resident of Fairfax County. The deadline to apply is June 30.
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Walk This May for Stronger Bones
This month, you can take steps – literally – to help raise awareness about osteoporosis, support those affected, and promote better bone health for all. May is Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month, and the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation is encouraging everyone to “Walk a Mile a Day in May.” Learn more about how you can prevent bone loss in the May issue of the Golden Gazette.
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Boost Your Career from Home with Webinars
Check out our growing library of on‑demand employment webinars, with many designed for federal employees and contractors exploring their next career move! Available anytime, these videos walk you through practical steps like translating federal experience for private-sector resumes, preparing for interviews, and identifying high-demand career paths. Whether you’re planning a transition in the next year or simply considering new options, on‑demand webinars provide flexible, self-paced guidance to help you clarify your goals and confidently take the next step in your career journey. Watch now.
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Fur Babies Are Family, Too
Home should be safe for everyone, including pets. But nearly 50 percent 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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Foster Care Success Story: Short Term Care Leads to Lifetime Bonds
Starting out as a foster parent during COVID-19 was not easy. There were a variety of challenges, but Ms. R stuck it out and has experienced many rewards that come with helping families and children in need of a helping hand. The world is a much brighter place due to her decision to open her heart and home and give of herself. Learn more.
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It’s Almost Summer – How to Get Low Cost Healthcare
Fairfax County Public Schools last day of school is Wednesday, June 17 – do you know where to get care outside of school? Get ahead for the fall and find out what immunizations are required by grade level so you can make your plan to access health care. You may be eligible for Medicaid or explore free and low-cost healthcare available through the Medical Care for Children Partnership, Federally Qualified Health Centers, and more in Fairfax County. Learn more about eligibility and how to access care.
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Starting June 1 – 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 ways to foster positive self-esteem in themselves and their children. Interested? This class meets every Monday 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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Starting June 1 – Free Parenting Classes for Ages 5-11 years
Are you raising a 5–11-year-old? This weekly class starting Monday, June 1 offered by the Parenting Education Programs shows parents how to increase their empathy, discover new ways to encourage appropriate behaviors, build positive self-concept and self-esteem, and learn how to have fun as a family. The class meets online every Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. 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. Don't miss out on this opportunity to improve your parenting skills and strengthen your family!
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Tuesday, June 2 – 24/7 Dads Parenting Group (Deep Dive) Workshop
Join the first session of the 2026 NOVA Regional Fatherhood Workshop Series to find out what to expect at a Dads Parenting Group. Learn more about the 24/7 Dads Parenting Group curriculum used. If you are a dad or you work with dads who might be interested in a group, join us June 2 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. for an in-depth overview to help you understand the program. Learn more!
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Tuesday, June 9 – Free Virtual Parent Café: Dads, Developing Your Parenting Style
Join this discussion geared toward helping fathers develop effective parenting styles with each of their children. Every child is different, and sometimes it might seem like girls and boys require different approaches. Bring your questions and we’ll talk about adapting your parenting to meet your children where they are. Any Fairfax County parents or guardians with children ages 0-18 years old can join us Tuesday, June 9, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Register online or for more information, email or call 703-324-7720.
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Tuesday, June. 9 – Attend a Foster Care Information Meeting
Are you curious about becoming a foster parent? Hundreds of children in Fairfax County need a temporary loving home until they can safely return to their families. Our next virtual information meeting is by invitation only on Tuesday, June 9, at 6:45 p.m. Complete this short interest form for prospective parents. For more information check out our website.
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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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