 May is Foster Care Month
Fairfax County’s theme for National Foster Care Month is “Supporting Foster Care Changes Lives!” Fairfax County's Department of Family Services (DFS) is actively engaging with Fairfax County community members to move them from awareness to action. DFS' Foster Care and Adoption program has a critical need for more dedicated foster parents and community partners to support their efforts. Learn more and get involved here.
 Calling All Young Artists - Introducing the Sustain Fairfax Earth Month Youth Art Contest!
Fairfax County’s Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination (OEEC) is seeking original artwork from youth in grades 4-12 to help inspire residents to complete climate actions in our community. Using the theme “My Actions, Our Climate” and actions as noted on the Sustain Fairfax Challenge, students can create and submit original artwork, including designs, photographs, or drawings, that highlight climate friendly actions they complete and their impacts.
Participants will fall into one of three categories, grades 4-6, grades 7-8, and grades 9-12. Winners will be selected from each category and will receive a $25 gift card and signed certificate. There may be one honorable mention selection picked from any of the categories that may also receive a prize.
The winning artwork will be used on OEEC’s marketing and promotional materials and may be shared in places such as on social media, websites, in email, and on in-person platforms (i.e. flyers, posters, giveaways, etc.). Submissions will be accepted physically or digitally and are due by May 15, 2026, at 4 p.m. Winners will be notified in May or early June 2026. For more information about the contest, including how to submit artwork, submission guidelines and entry requirements found here.
NVSWCD Free Veggie Seedling Giveaway
The Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District, along with several community partners, is hosting a free vegetable seedling giveaway on May 8 and 9, 2026. Open to all residents, first‑come, first‑served. A per‑person limit around 6-10 per person/family to ensure fair access. Seedlings include: tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, basil, and bunching onions. The seedlings are smaller varieties that can grow in small spaces for those who live in multi-unit housing. Click here for more details.
Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (DSVS)
DSVS is accepting participants for our spring 2026 Domestic Violence Women’s Group. This free, confidential, 10-week group is for adult women who are currently experiencing or have previously experienced domestic abuse (physical, emotional, or other forms) led by a therapist specializing in domestic violence and trauma held weekly in the evenings in English via Zoom. To learn more or inquire about joining, call 703-324-5730 or email DFSDSVSClinicalServices@fairfaxcounty.gov
Fairfax County Commission for Women
The Fairfax County Commission for Women is recruiting a Student Representative for the 2026–2027 academic year. This is an excellent leadership opportunity for students 16+ to build their resume. For questions or additional information, please contact Alexandra Hernandez at fairfaxcountycommissionforwomen@fairfaxcounty.gov
Accessing In-person Advocacy Services
With the temporary closure of the Pennino building and Historic Courthouse, you can access in-person advocacy services at Fairfax County Courthouse, General District Court 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax VA 22030 weekdays from 8:00am-4:30pm, at the INOVA Cares Clinic at 6400 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church, VA 22042 on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:00am-5:00pm, and at the James Lee Community Center 2855 Annandale Road, Falls Church, VA 22042 on Fridays from 9:00am-5:00pm.
Learn More about Domestic and Sexual Violence Services
(DSVS)
Want to learn more about domestic and sexual violence issues and resources in the community? Join us for training led by experts from Fairfax County's Sexual Assault Response Team. Register now for Sexual Violence Tier One on June 24 and 25 at Northern Virginia Hebrew Congregation in Reston. Thank you to the Interfaith Partners for your incredible support in strengthening our community!
Opioid Response Network
The Opioid Response Network (ORN) in SAMHSA Region 3 is hosting a one-day regional summit on substance use disorders and the faith community on Thursday May 14 in Richmond, Virginia. The summit brings together faith leaders, lay ministers, mentors, health professionals, and community members from all traditions who are committed to supporting individuals and families impacted by opioid use. This full-day gathering offers opportunities for meaningful connection, shared learning, and collaboration, empowering participants to strengthen partnerships and deepen their collective impact in prevention, treatment, and recovery. For more information and to register click here.
Teen Dating Violence Social Media Day
Teen Dating Violence Social Media Day is this Thursday, May 7! The full toolkit is now available on our Fairfax County website.
Kitten Spring Fling
Join Fairfax County Animal Services on May 9th from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Fairfax County Animal Services — Lorton Campus for a cheerful spring celebration filled with kittens, crafts, and community fun. Meet adorable adoptable kittens, enjoy activity stations, and explore easy ways to support shelter pets. For more details click here.
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