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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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Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Stands Ready
If someone is hurting or threatening you or someone you love, Domestic and Sexual Violence Services can help. All services are confidential and immigration status does not matter. Learn more about how the division supports everyone impacted by interpersonal violence or call the Fairfax County Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273.
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From Curious to Confident: New Volunteers Join Parenting Education Programs
"Volunteering with the Parenting Education Programs has been an incredibly rewarding journey. More than just giving my time, I truly enjoyed getting to know the unique personalities of the children and parents and collaborating with the dedicated staff,” said new volunteer, Rahwa Weldemichael. Learn more about our latest training and newest volunteers.
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National Recovery Month: Supporting the Path Toward Recovery
National Recovery Month, celebrated every September, shines a light on the progress made in the world of substance recovery and mental health. It’s a moment to celebrate people in recovery and the recovery community, and to show appreciation to the providers and supporters who show up every day to make recovery possible. Get tips for recovery and learn about resources that can help in the September issue of the Golden Gazette.
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Resources for Job Seekers in Fairfax County
Whether entering the workforce for the first time, returning after an extended absence, transitioning after a layoff, or simply seeking a new direction, finding a job can be both challenging and rewarding. Visit one of our One-Stop Employment Centers for personalized career coaching, resume review, interview preparation, and much more. We offer in-person or virtual appointments. Check out our upcoming job events and workshops during Workforce Development Month. We’re here for your success, every step of the way.
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Fall Interns Energize Volunteer and Partner Services
VPS is kicking off the season with a fresh wave of talent as five energetic interns join the team this fall. Each brings curiosity, passion and a drive to make a difference, and they’re ready to jump in, learn and contribute from day one. We’re excited to welcome them aboard and can’t wait to see the creativity, dedication and new perspectives they bring to our work this year. Meet the interns!
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Quick Tips to Protect Your SNAP Benefits
SNAP participants receive funds on an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card to buy eligible food items at most grocery stores and some local farmers markets. No matter where you use it, keep your EBT card secure. Like any debit card, scammers target EBT cards to steal SNAP funds. Keep your PIN secret and change it frequently. Check your EBT account regularly and know your balance, so you can quickly identify unusual activity. Learn more about protecting your money with simple steps.
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Unscripted: Conversations about Sexual and Domestic Violence—Understanding Teen Dating Violence
In a perfect world, we would never utter the words “teen dating violence.” But this world is far from perfect, and this type of violence is commonplace. In fact, 1 in 5 women and 1 in 7 men report they first faced abuse like rape, physical violence, or stalking between ages 11 and 17, often setting them up for toxic, abusive, or violent relationships in the future. On this episode of Unscripted, host Kendra Lee talks with Youth Education & Outreach Specialist Debra Miller and Children’s Counselor Abrishiel Glazer, both with Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, and Kimberlyn Pena, Social Services Specialist in the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, to understand the nuances of teen dating violence.
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Saturdays, Sept. 19 and Sept. 26 – Sexual Violence Tier 1
Registration for the fall session of Sexual Violence Tier 1, a 16-hour training on understanding sexual violence, systems responding to sexual violence in Fairfax County, and resources available in our community, is now open. The fall session is 8 a.m.-5 p.m., in-person at Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, 4555 Ahmadiyya Drive, Chantilly, VA 20151. This training is free but seats fill quickly, so sign up now. For full credit, all 16 hours must be completed. Questions? Contact Victoria Nevel-Babla.
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Friday, Sept. 18 – Spanish Speaking Dementia Friends Information Session
Join this webinar, presented in Spanish by Marina Giovannini, Dementia Friends Champion Volunteer, to learn how to become a dementia friend. Turn your new understanding of dementia into practical action that can help someone living in your community. Session will be held virtually from Noon-1:15 p.m. Register now.
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Wednesdays, Sept. 23-Dec. 16, 2026 – Free African American Culturally Focused Parenting Classes (Parenting Children Ages 5-18 years old)
This virtual parenting class provides a supportive space for parents and caregivers raising African American children ages 5-18. Join us starting Wednesday, Sept. 23 from 6-8 p.m. to share experiences, strengthen parenting skills, explore resources, and build community. Ready to sign up or have questions? Email or call 703-324-7720. Learn more.
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Wednesday, Sept. 23 – Money Smarts for Older Adults: Confident Financial Decisions at Any Age
Protect your money by learning how to recognize, prevent, and respond to financial scams and fraud. Get important tips and participate in scenario-based activities so you can stop scammers in their tracks and feel empowered to respond if fraud happens. Join us from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Gerry Hyland Government Center. Workshop begins promptly at 10 a.m. following registration and refreshments. Register now.
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Wednesday, Sept. 23 – Pride and Care: Navigating Dementia in the LGBTQ+ Community
In this webinar, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, Dawn Jefferson, Education and Support Coordinator with Insight Memory Care Center will present on navigating dementia in the LGBTQ+ community. Together we’ll talk through practical tools, community resources, and ways to advocate dignity and recognition at every stage of dementia journey. Session will be held virtually from Noon-1:00 p.m. Register now.
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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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