I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples. - Mother Teresa
VOLUNTEER E-NEWSLETTER
In This Issue
CorporateStaff Spotlight
Tijani Musa

Tijani Musa
Community Development Advocate Ragan Oaks
After volunteering with FACETS' Education and Community Development Program and graduating from George Mason University, Tijani Musa joined FACETS' staff as the Community Development Advocate for the Ragan Oaks Community. Tijani holds a Bachelor's degree in Global Affairs and is passionate about helping individuals and families living in poverty.  

Fairfax County provides a wealth of resources to our neighbors in need of a helping hand, and Tijani assists our program participants in securing the right support, moving them to a brighter future. He also runs an  after-school program which helps students with their homework assignments and projects, in addition to providing case management to adults .

What is the best part of working at Ragan Oaks?
My most favorite part of working in this position is seeing the look on a resident's face after helping him or her find solutions to a problem. It's self-fulfilling and self-rewarding to witness these moments over and over. Also, helping a child  with their math homework, apply for a scholarship or look up information about a college or university, reminds me of why I decided to work in the human services field. These are the kinds of small scale differences that keep me coming to work knowing that I am contributing to the improvement of someone's life.

What do you find most challenging about your position?
I find challenges relating to financial problems. For example, residents will come to me unsure about how they will pay next month's rent or feed there family. Although we have a system to assist them, it always breaks my heart knowing that individuals and families are struggling each day to make ends meet.

How have volunteers impacted the ECD programs and the residents of Ragan Oaks?
I simply would not be able to do my work without volunteers. With so much going on at the community, it can be a challenge for one person to manage. It would be impossible to reach so many people in need without the extra hands of volunteers. My volunteers are the engine that keeps Ragan Oaks running. I am truly appreciative of their commitment and dedication to making a difference.
 
Is there anything you wish everyone knew about FACETS and the work we do?
I've heard many people talk about FACETS and the work we do. In that regard, many know about us. For those who are new to the community and may not yet know us, know that FACETS is a community organization that is able to meet the needs of our neighbors because of a collaborative effort. Members of this community believe in what we do and they choose to partner with us to change lives, and provide long-term solutions to the issues we face in the county. It is because of the community's continued support that we are able to do the things we do. We thank everyone for their time, in-kind and financial contributions, and the stories they share with their family and friends about our organization. All of you keep FACETS going. 
featureA Taste of Fall with FACETS
Event Volunteers Needed

Our 17th annual  A Taste of Fall with FACETS  taking place on November 5th is a great opportunity for community members and business leaders to enjoy local cuisine, live musical performances, and fun carnival games. Guests will also have the opportunity to bid on  over 50 unique items. 

With nearly 300 attendees, FACETS is calling for volunteers to help us make this event a success. A variety of opportunities are available for you to make a difference that evening. Have fun while sharpening your customer service skills and learning about event management. Click here to sign up.
highlightHighlights of the Month
September in Review

On September 21st, Wegmans hosted a cooking class at our Ragan Oaks Community Center where  31 residents learned how to prepare a nutritious meal for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

In addition to enjoying a great demonstration, our young participants learned new cooking techniques, fun and healthy recipes and how to prepare healthy meals on a budget. They also sampled the meals prepared which included a whole grain breakfast wrap, a pita sandwich for lunch, and butternut squash soup paired with a grilled cheese sandwich for dinner. Many t hanks to Wegmans for sharing these valuable resources with our residents. It was a great evening!
getinvolvedGet Involved
Upcoming Opportunities

Case Management Intern
Interns work closely with the FACETS' staff to assist individuals in our Permanent Supportive Housing program with maintaining safe and stable housing. You will also support these individuals in obtaining much needed medical services and increasing their income.   Click here for more details.

Homework Help Volunteer
Help ensure a youth living in poverty obtains academic success.  Sign up today to help elementary, middle or high school students with their homework.  This opportunity is available at all of our community centers. ( Click here  for the locations.) Click  here to sign up today. 

Host a Halloween Party
Trick or Treat! Have fun and host a Halloween Party for youth living in poverty on October  31st. Your faith community, group or business could help with the following: 
  • Food and candy for trick or treating at the community center
  • Decorations for the community center with a Halloween theme (great opportunity to build a haunted house)
  • The scare factor. Dress up in your favorite costume 
  • Engage the youth in other activities such as face painting, balloon making, pumpkin carving, etc.
If you would like to secure your spot for an upcoming event or have questions, contact our Volunteer and Events Manager, D'Ivonne Holman, at  DHolman@FacetsCares.org for more information. 
joinusJoin Our Team
Upcoming Volunteer Orientations

Looking to be and feel a part of our generous community of volunteers working to end homelessness and poverty in Fairfax County? Join us at FACETS' Fairfax or Alexandria office for our volunteer orientation. You will learn about FACETS' history, the work being done in our community and be provided with the tools necessary to get started as a volunteer. 

Orientation Dates
  • Thursday November 10th 6:30 - 8:00 pm (Fairfax)
  • Thursday December 1st 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm (Alexandria)
Mentors are also needed to make a difference in the life of a youth or adult. To be paired with a mentee, sign up for the upcoming training to get started.

Mentor 101 Training
  • Saturday January 21st 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Follow this link  to sign up for a Volunteer  Orientation or Mentor 101 Training. We look forward to meeting you there! 
Stay Connected: 
Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter
Phone:  703-352-5090
Fax: 703-352-5088 
volunteer@FacetsCares.org