Fairfax County is observing Child Abuse Prevention Month this April, and our theme is “Our Future Matters – Stronger Families, Thriving Community.” This April we’re sharing about the five protective factors that help reduce family stress, trauma, and adversity, as well as practical tips and strategies to help parents and caregivers deal successfully with life’s challenges and create a nurturing environment for their children. Help spread the word and find out how to get involved.

Everyone is affected by sexual assault. This is borne out by the statistics: 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men in the U.S. have reported unwanted sexual contact in their lifetime. In many cases, sexual violence is a result of a culture that does not properly educate people on how to prevent crimes like this from happening. Ending sexual violence will take the community, which is why it is important to raise awareness and give community members the tools to have these conversations with their families and with each other. Together, we can heal. Together we thrive. Learn more about Sexual Assault Awareness Month and what you can do to help raise awareness about this important issue.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps families buy food, but how do you actually use SNAP dollars? Participants receive a monthly amount of money on an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card to buy eligible grocery items at most grocery stores and some local farmers markets. Find out which farmers’ markets match SNAP dollars spent on produce so your dollars go farther! You can even order online grocery delivery at some stores. Learn more about how SNAP can help in touch times.

Gracing Spaces is a nonprofit organization run entirely by volunteers. They help people who are transitioning from experiencing homelessness to living in a home by providing furniture and household goods. Volunteers collect donated items, sort them, and repair them if needed. They use these donated items to fulfill requests from social workers who are helping their clients furnish their new homes. Gracing Spaces ensures that every client has what they need to enjoy their home, making them feel comfortable and cared for from the start. Learn more about their work in the April issue of the Golden Gazette.

Donating handmade items to children is a powerful way to spread kindness, warmth, and comfort. These gifts are more than just physical items; they are symbols of care, love, and hope. We are always in need of donations, particularly handmade items that have a personal touch. Whether you’re an expert knitter, a skilled seamstress, or someone who loves to paint, there are endless ways to make meaningful gifts for children in need. Check out these suggestions!

Are you navigating an employment change or loss? We’re here for you. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program offers services for job seekers, ranging from career coaching to assistance with resumes and interview preparation, and more. Attend one of our weekly in-person or virtual information sessions to learn how WIOA could help you find your next opportunity. Learn more and register.

Between the ages of 17 and 24? Check out the WIOA Youth Program!

Campus violence is a legitimate worry for the roughly 72 million students enrolled in colleges and universities in this country. That violence includes sexual violence. Studies show if you're a college student or college-age adult, you're at particularly high risk of being sexually assaulted, likely by someone you know. Learn more about campus safety.