DEPARTMENT of FAMILY SERVICES

March 18, 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.

Power Foods to Prevent and Fight Colon Cancer

March is National Colon Cancer Awareness and Prevention Month, an opportunity to discuss prevention strategies for this common but often preventable cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States and while the overall lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is approximately 4%, individual risk varies based on personal and environmental factors. The good news is that colorectal cancer is preventable and treatable when detected early. Nutrition plays a vital role in reducing the risk of colorectal cancer and improving treatment outcomes. Learn about foods that help prevent and fight colon cancer in the March issue of the Golden Gazette.

Body Safety Coordinator Transitions to New Position

Last month, one of our Body Safety Coordinators, Elizabeth Martinez moved into a new role with another program in our agency. Learn about her contributions to Volunteer and Partner Services and the way she will continue fighting child abuse and neglect in her new role.

Get Your Teal Gear Ready to Go!

Wear teal on Tuesday, Apr. 7, 2026, to show support for survivors of sexual violence and to raise awareness about Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Post your selfie or group photo to social media with hashtags #SAAM, #WearTeal, #SupportSurvivors, and #UntilEveryoneIsSafe, and submit your photos to Victoria Nevel-Babla for potential use online.

Skip the Trip: Apply for Benefits from Home 

Avoid traffic, bad weather, and waiting in line by applying for Medicaid, SNAP, and more online or over the phone. You can conveniently submit benefits applications or check on the status of your application without making the trip to one of our office locations. Learn more about how to access Public Assistance and Employment Services information online or by phone.

Parenting Education Programs Welcomes New Volunteers at Interactive Training

The Parenting Education Programs are based on the philosophy that parenting is learned, and the way parents were raised directly influences the way they raise their children. Our parenting classes are designed to help parents learn and practice healthy parenting strategies. Volunteers are essential to the program. Learn more.

Meet Nikitha Yesmitty, Domestic and Sexual Violence Services Hotline Volunteer

“I think the work DSVS does is absolutely inspiring, and as soon as I saw there was an opportunity to help advocate for vulnerable individuals, I knew this was my calling,” says Nikitha Yemisetty, Hotline volunteer. “I am so grateful to be able to lift the voices of individuals in my own community.” Learn more about Nikitha’s volunteer journey.

Jump-Start Your Next Career: Free Job Seeker Events to Help You Stand Out 

Looking for a new career? We have lots of upcoming events for job seekers! Whether you’re looking to make an impact by joining Fairfax County Government, starting out in the construction and trades field, or just need some expert tips on applying for jobs, there’s an event for you. Become a stronger candidate and stand out from the crowd by taking advantage of these no-cost workforce development resources. Learn more and register now!

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.

Apply by Tuesday, March 31 – John Hudson Internship Program

Post-secondary students who self-identify as an individual with a disability are encouraged to apply for the John Hudson Internship Program, managed by Fairfax County Disability Rights and Resources. The internship program provides participants with on-the-job experience, professional development, and training opportunities. Paid, full-time summer internships, hosted by Land Development Services-IT and Alcohol Safety Action Program, begin in early June and go through August. Applications for the summer 2026 program are due by Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Learn more and apply.