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DEPARTMENT of FAMILY SERVICES
Foster Care and Adoption
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 April 2026
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A Foster-to-Adopt Success Story:
Persistence, Support, and Family Growth
We all love a good news story! This success story began in 2003 in a Foster-to-Adopt training offered by Fairfax County. It culminates with loving parents launching two exceptional children into adulthood to pursue higher education and chart their own path. Meet the Lindo-Allens and the staff who supported them along the way!
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Featured Events
Monthly Foster Care Information Meeting, Apr. 14, 6:45-8:30 p.m. To attend a meeting and learn more about foster care, first complete a short interest form to help us get to know you better, and you will be contacted promptly by one of our specialists.
Spring Forward Foster, Adoptive and Kinship Family Fun Day hosted by Formed Families Forward, April 18, 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. This day of learning and connection is open to parents, caregivers and professionals beginning with a keynote The morning begins with a keynote presented by Melissa Corkum, CEO and Founder of RISE to Regulation. Children and youth can enjoy a day of structured and engaging outdoor activities. The event concludes with a family lunch.
Awareness to Action – Supporting Foster Care Changes Lives! Tuesday, May 5, 7-8:30 p.m. Herndon Library 768 Center Street, Herndon, VA 20170. This National Foster Care Month Open House is an opportunity to understand the foster care system, the process involved, the rewards of being a foster parent, as well as other ways to be involved. Whether you are simply curious to learn more or seriously considering becoming a foster parent, this meeting is the perfect chance to get all your questions answered. Drop in or register online.
Family Fun Day in the Park hosted by Fairfax County Foster Care and Adoption, May 9, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Lake Accotink Park. Fairfax County Resource Families can join us for an open house in the great outdoors. There will be a special presentation honoring you, our resource families, as well as an interactive resiliency training that is guaranteed to get you out of your seats. There will be a light lunch, and snacks, and opportunities to enjoy the park’s amenities including boat rentals, carousel, trails, minigolf and more. Training credits will be issued.
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Featured Trainings/Conferences
Fostering Futures Education Expo, In Person, Apr. 7, 5–7 p.m., Virtual via Zoom, Apr. 22, 5–7 p.m. Level up your future! Are you thinking about a job, college, GED, or learning a trade? Come meet people and programs who want to help you reach your goals! Ask questions. Learn about classes, training, and careers. Find out what support is available for youth in foster care. This is especially for youth, ages 14-21, who are currently in the care of Fairfax County Department of Family Services or Fairfax County’s Fostering Futures Program. Contact us.
2026 Special Education Family Conference- hosted by Fairfax County Public Schools. Apr.18, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Stronger Together: Connecting Families & Schools is a no-cost, in-person event where families will connect to learn community resources and hear speakers including a keynote address from internationally renowned educator and advocate, Dr. Shelley Moore.
Making the Most of Special Education, Apr 29, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Virtual via Zoom. The training will explain the nuts and bolts of an IEP and 504 plan to guide participants in understanding, reviewing and helping to develop effective, measurable IEP goals that address the youth’s unique needs. Two hours of training credit.
See other training opportunities offered through our partners such as the Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition, etc.
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Announcing Community Caring & Learning
A Support Group for Fairfax County Resource Parents! Looking for ways to connect with other resource parents? Ready to be a part of a supportive community of like-minded people? Look no further. We heard you! DFS Foster Care and Adoption is launching a series of in-person gatherings for Fairfax County foster, adoptive, and kinship parents. Beginning Monday, April 13 & 27, 6:30-8 p.m. In-service training hours will be provided.
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Supporting Children After Violence is in the News
If you feel bad about what is in the news and you are having trouble talking about it, it’s likely that children are struggling too. We offer some advice on how their trauma might show up and how to respond to create feelings of safety despite the scary or violent things in the media.
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Building Stronger Families: Solid Foundations for Family Well-being
Fairfax County is observing Child Abuse Prevention Month this April, with the theme, “Building Stronger Families: Solid Foundations for Family Well-being.” This theme highlights how family protective factors create a strong foundation to stabilize and support the safety and well-being of children. It also reminds us that everyone needs extra support at different times in their lives. You can help us raise awareness in our community:
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Understand Your Constitutional Rights
All people in the United States, regardless of immigration status, have certain rights and protections under the U.S. Constitution. As immigration enforcement continues to expand, the Fairfax County Foster Care and Adoption program is sharing some resources to raise awareness among resource families and youth in foster care about how to exercise those rights.
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Pennino Building Remains Closed to the Public
The Pennino Building, 12011 Government Center Parkway in Fairfax, remains closed until further notice due to damage caused by a water leak while remediation and repairs are completed. Walk-in services are unavailable at this time. Talk to your resource worker if you need in-person support. The public should visit one of our Human Services Centers in Alexandria, Annandale, or Reston for walk-in support. For additional information and updates, please visit online.
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