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04.06.2026
Dear Neighbor,
| | As (hopefully) warmer weather is here to stay, I wanted to look back on my visit to the Hypothermia Prevention Shelter at Messiah Methodist Church that marked the close of this winter’s Hypothermia Prevention Program, another successful season of protecting our most vulnerable neighbors. Since 2004, this lifesaving program has helped prevent deaths and serious injuries among Fairfax County residents who need it most. | | |
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the seven Braddock area churches that opened their doors, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to host the shelter: Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Burke United Methodist Church, St. Stephens United Methodist Church, Westwood Baptist Church, Burke Presbyterian Church, St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church, and Messiah Methodist Church. The compassion of their volunteers cannot be overstated. Beyond providing warm beds and meals, they offered dignity, kindness, and a human touch to every guest. I am very grateful to the volunteers and places of worship for hosting the shelters - some of the volunteers have been doing this for decades! We are lucky here in Braddock and in Fairfax County in the dedication of our volunteers.
With winter (hopefully!) behind us, it’s time to look ahead to brighter days and community fun. Our office is excited to once again host Braddock Bark, a dog friendly celebration for pups and their people, on Saturday, May 30 at Lake Accotink Park. More details are on the way, but you can expect favorites like the doggy splash zone, food vendors, adoption opportunities, and booths featuring local pet nonprofits and pet focused businesses. My staff and I can’t wait to welcome your four-legged family members!
Get ready, too, for a summer filled with music and magic. Our Braddock Nights Friday concert series returns beginning June 26, 2026, launching at Lake Accotink Park and continuing at Royal Lake. This year, we’re shaking things up with a lively mariachi band and a diverse lineup that promises something for every musical taste. We’ll share the full schedule as soon as it’s finalized.
And the fun doesn’t stop there, join us Saturday mornings for Children’s Arts in the Parks, at Wakefield Park in front of the Audrey Moore Rec Center, featuring eight unique performances including musicians, comedians, and even a science show. It’s a wonderful way for families to enjoy the outdoors together.
Looking ahead to next week, I’ll be participating in the Transportation Committee and Safety and Security Committee meetings, and I’ll be chairing my first Fairfax County/City of Fairfax Interjurisdictional Committee meeting. Keep an eye out for summaries of each discussion in next week’s newsletter.
And as always, please reach out if we can help or if you have thoughts you wish to share! We are here to serve you.
| | Supervisor Rachna Sizemore Heizer | | |
In this issue:
- Opportunities to Serve on Boards, Authorities and Commissions
- Braddock Bravos
- Economic Development
- Environment & Parks
- Human Services
- Land Use & Development
- Public Safety
- Resources for Older Adults & Caregivers
- Transportation Updates
- Community Happenings
| | Opportunities to Serve on Boards, Authorities and Commissions | | |
Supervisor Sizemore Heizer is seeking Braddock District community members to serve on a number of Boards, Authorities and Commissions (BACs). These advisory bodies are made up of volunteer appointees who have interest and experience in relevant subject areas, and who are willing to commit the necessary time to serve the community in these trusted roles. If you are interested in being considered for an appointment to one of these organizations, please fill out this application form and send your resume.
If you have already applied, you do not need to complete the application.
Click on the names below to learn about each organization:
Additional positions (such as At-Large appointments) may be available. The Clerk to the Board of Supervisors publishes the full list of vacancies. The next vacancy list will be available in advance of the May 19, 2026 meeting.
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The Month of the Military Child is celebrated every April and it’s a perfect occasion to honor Abby Huisman, a 17‑year‑old from Burke and proud member of an Air Force family. Abby has been named a finalist for the 2026 Military Child of the Year Award through Operation Homefront. Nearly 1,000 students from around the world applied, and Abby is the only one from Fairfax County.
When Abby’s family moved to Burke in 2020, she and her brother understood firsthand how challenging it can be for military kids to start over in a new school, especially during the isolation of COVID. Instead of letting those challenges define their experience, they decided to create something better for those who came after them.
They founded a small student ambassador club, just six kids at the beginning. Today, that program has grown to 200 students and is known as the Ram‑bassadors. Their mission is simple but powerful: Make every new military-connected student feel welcome. From offering guidance on day one, to being a friendly face in the hallway, to making sure no one sits alone at lunch, Abby and her peers are building the kind of school community every kid deserves.
| Upcoming Events and Opportunities | | |
Scout Pack 873
I had such a great time meeting with Pack 873 last week! I love connecting with the youngest members of our community, they truly are the future of Braddock. We talked about last year’s special elections and the difference between a ranked-choice primary and a majority-vote general election. I walked them through the different levels of government, what each one does, and how the branches fit together. I also shared more about what the Board of Supervisors does and my role as Braddock District Supervisor.
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Arc Annual Breakfast
I had a wonderful time at the The Arc of Northern Virginia's "A Life Like Yours" breakfast lifting up the right for everyone to live a fulfilled life of dignity and inclusion. As a former Arc Board member, this event and the work of the Arc is near and dear to my heart.
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Adopt a Cat!
Meet Georgina! This beautiful 7.7-pound kitty was transferred to our shelter from one of our rescue partners, and she can't wait to find a new loving home! This is what the rescue partner had to say about her:
Georgina - Animal Details
"If you have a soft spot for chatty cats with ridiculously soft fur, Georgie is the girl for you! She has the cutest little squeaky meow and has no problem using it to tempt you to give her a little extra TLC. Very outgoing and easy to handle, totally charming."
Georgina is a wonderful girl who is just waiting for you to take her home, so come and adopt her today!
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Walk & Win Challenge
Spring is a fantastic time to enjoy the great outdoors! Please join me on the Fairfax County Walk & Win Challenge! This is a countywide walking initiative held in April in celebration of Walking Month. The program encourages residents to get outside, be active, and explore their neighborhoods while supporting their District through friendly competition.
Throughout the month, participants earn entries to win weekly prizes by walking and submitting their activity online. Walks can be completed on one of Fairfax County’s designated walking loops. If a loop is not nearby, a participant can walk their own neighborhood route, making the challenge accessible to residents across the County— regardless of location, schedule, or walking experience.
The challenge is designed to be simple, inclusive, and flexible:
• Walk at your own pace
• Choose a route that works for you
• Participate as often as you like throughout April
District participation is tracked and shared via an online leaderboard, which creates excitement and encourages ongoing engagement. At the end of the month, the district with the highest participation earns Countywide recognition and bragging rights.
The Walk & Win Challenge supports Fairfax County’s broader goals of promoting active transportation, health and wellness, and sustainable travel choices, while providing a fun, low-barrier way for residents, employees, and families to participate together.
Come join me in making Braddock the highest participation district in Fairfax! Let's show how much we enjoy our amazing network of trails and lakes right here in Braddock! To participate, click here.
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Library Events
Come and partake in the wonderful activities taking place in the Kings Park and Burke Centre Libraries this week.
Additional activities in the libraries throughout Fairfax County may be found on the following link Library Events | Library.
- Library events are always free to the public; some require registration in advance.
- To request ADA accommodations or alternative format of materials, please call 703-324-8380 or TTY 711.
- More Event Guidelines
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Burke Centre Library Events
One-on-One English Practice
Practice speaking, reading, and writing English with a volunteer partner. Online registration opens two weeks prior to event. Note: A basic knowledge of English is required. Not suitable for...
Date: Tuesday, April 7, 2026
Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Teen Craft & Chill - Kindness Notes
Spread some kindness by writing some Kindness Notes with us. Afterwards, library users may choose one if they wish. Grades 7-12
Date: Tuesday, April 7, 2026
Time: 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Stitch Sesh
Need help with a project? Want some company while you work? Bring it to the library and hang out with your fellow crafty enthusiasts! All manner of fiber arts and skill levels are welcome.
Date: Tuesday, April 7, 2026
Time: 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Baby Lapsit Storytime
Connect with your baby through songs, lapsit bounces, and stories. Build an early literacy foundation while enjoying time together in your lap, followed by playtime to develop your baby's social...
Date: Wednesday, April 8, 2026
Time: 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
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Kings Park Library Events
Tots and Twos!
Enjoy an early literacy Storytime geared towards toddlers, with stories, songs and fingerplays. Build an early literacy foundation while enjoying time together in your lap. Ages 18-36 months with...
Date: Wednesday, April 8, 2026
Time: 10:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.
Stay & Play
Would your little ones like to hear a few short stories followed by some open play time? Make new friends, introduce story time manners, and socialize with other families during this family...
Date: Thursday, April 9, 2026
Time: 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Tech Help Clinic
Want to learn more about using your iPhone? Need help with navigating Facebook? Want to learn more about the Microsoft Office suite? Join us for a drop-in Tech Help Clinic. Library volunteers will be...
Date: Thursday, April 9, 2026
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Landscape Painting : America's Natural Legacy
Celebrate America's 250th and our shared natural legacy by drawing inspiration from native plants, national parks, and DC scenery and creating your own unique 3D landscape painting using paint and hot...
Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026
Time: 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
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Apply for Season VII of the Capital One Hall Community Arts Partnership!
The Capital One Hall Community Arts Partnership allows Fairfax County-based nonprofit arts and culture groups, as well as arts-related programming by Fairfax County agencies and Fairfax County Public Schools, to apply for use of the Main Theater, Vault Theater, or classroom spaces for arts-related programming. Approved arts organizations and programs are submitted to Capital One Hall’s operator for integration into the season’s schedule and benefit from subsidized rental rates, production and front of house support, box office support, and Capital One Hall marketing and promotions support. All applicants must submit a new application each year. Previous applicants are not exempt.
Key Dates
- May 1, 2026 at 7:00pm ET: Application deadline
- September 2027: Season start date
- June 2028: Season end date
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AI Day at George Mason
Join George Mason University for AI Day, a one-day conference at Mason Square in Arlington that will aim to address questions that span technological innovation and societal consequence: How do we build AI literacy across disciplines? What does responsible governance look like at an institutional scale? How do we prepare workers for technologies still taking shape?
Learn more and see the complete agenda and list of speakers, including George Mason University President Gregory Washington.
This all-day event will bring together researchers pursuing foundational questions in AI, faculty integrating these tools into teaching and scholarship, policymakers wrestling with governance, students navigating a shifting landscape, and practitioners deploying systems in the field.
Date: Wednesday, April 29
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Location: Fuse at Mason Square (Arlington) Campus
Cost: Students & Employees - FREE - External Guests: $75
Learn more or register, visit here.
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Fairfax County History Commission Conference
On April 18, join historians, scholars, educators and community members for a day of exploration, discovery and reflection on the future. As Fairfax marks #Fairfax250, this conference explores how the County shaped—and was shaped by—the American Revolution. From famous figures to everyday people, uncover the ideas, struggles and lasting impacts that helped change the course of history. Presented as part of the Virginia American Revolution 250th Commemoration (VA250). Learn more here.
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News from ECHO
April 11 is ECHO’s Spectacular Yard Sale! Don’t Miss It!
On the second Saturday in April, come to St. Bernadette’s gym, 7600 Old Keene Mill Road, between 8:00 am and noon to find baskets, jewelry, kitchenware, fashion accessories, purses, home decorations, toys, electronics, and more. Proceeds of the sale support ECHO’s mission to assist people in need in our community. Plus, prices are very reasonable and searching for treasures is fun!
Do You Enjoy Working with Teens?
ECHO needs a few adults who enjoy the company of young people to volunteer with the Teen Program on one or two Wednesday evenings a month. A small group of community service-minded high schoolers volunteer on Wednesday evenings during the school year to help keep our donations organized. ECHO needs a few more adults to work with and supervise this great group of young people. The chair of the Teen Program will be happy to orient new volunteers.
In addition, there are a few volunteer openings on specific days for people who want to work directly with clients or those who want to work with donations. Want more info? Contact their Volunteer Coordinator through the ECHO website.
Shred and Share Event for Documents and Electronics
You can help ECHO and get your sensitive documents shredded, and your old phones, computers and computer peripherals securely recycled for free at the same time. On Saturday, April 18, from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm there will be a Shred and Share Event at Kirkwood Presbyterian Church, 8336 Carrleigh Parkway, Springfield. Though it is not required, this is an opportunity to bring non-perishable food and personal hygiene products donations for ECHO’s Food Pantry.
ECHO Needs for Spring
The ECHO Housewares Department is grateful for the recent donations that have helped provide basic household items to our clients. Your generosity has allowed them to fulfill many immediate requests and better support families in need. Thank you!
ECHO’s most needed food and personal hygiene items at this time are dried beans, lentils, rice, canned fruit, Masa flour, boxed pasta, granulated sugar, toothbrushes, laundry detergent, shampoo and toilet paper.
ECHO is open to receive donations of household goods, clothing and non-perishable food from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, Monday through Friday, and from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, as well as one Saturday morning a month which varies, but is noted on their website. Receipts are cheerfully offered and volunteers are glad to help donors with boxes and bags. Look for the Donation Door sign on the west side of the building.
ECHO donations can also be received in the box at the Braddock Supervisor's office, 9002 Burke Lake Road, from 9-5 Mon-Fri and when the Library is open.
Mark Your Calendar!
Please mark your calendar for the Postal Carriers’ Food Drive scheduled for May 9, when Burke and Springfield letter carriers will pick up bags of food donations left at mailboxes as they carry out normal mail delivery, and give those donations to ECHO. This drive is very important to ECHO’s ability to meet food needs during the summer months when many regular donors are on vacation, and few food drives are held.
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Celebrate our "Fab 5" Founders on April 7
On behalf of the Fairfax County Department of Economic Initiatives (DEI), we invite you to join us in celebrating our latest Fairfax Founders Fund "Fab 5" grantees.
The Fairfax Founders Fund supports high-growth startups that drive innovation within our community. We look forward to showcasing these five exceptional companies and their contributions to the Fairfax County economy. Please join us for an evening of networking and celebration at Bunnyman Brewing.
Event Details:
- Date: April 7, 2026
- Time: 4:30 p.m.– 6:30 p.m.
- Location: Bunnyman Brewing Lorton (9514 Workhouse Way, Lorton)
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RSVP: Please confirm your attendance by April 6.
We look forward to seeing you there as we recognize our homegrown innovators.
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Check out these upcoming Parktakes Classes in Accotink Park
April 10
Nature Kayaking
3:00PM (12-Adult) Paddle with a naturalist to learn about the flora and fauna
April 11
Hike with a Naturalist
4:00PM (8-Adult) Join our park naturalist on a hike and explore wild plants
April 11
Kayaking Basics
6:00PM, (12-Adults) Learn the fundamentals of kayaking in a relaxed and comfortable
April 15
Forest Pharmacy - A Wild Medicine Walk
10:30AM, (9-Adult) This program explores nature’s medicine cabinet
To learn more visit here.
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Parenting & Family Support
The Department of Family Services is hosting workshops for parents and caregivers:
Dads Parenting Group: A 13-week virtual course to improve parenting skills and strengthen relationships.
Starts Tuesday, April 7, 2026 (6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.)
For more information, email Samantha Carrico or call 703-324-7576
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Healthy Relationships – Parenting with Empathy:
English Session: Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Sherwood Regional Library (6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.)
For questions, please call 703-765-3645.
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Green Grass Kicks Off on April 13th!
The Department of Code Compliance (DCC) will start receiving and investigating grass complaints on Monday, April 13, 2026. Complaints can be submitted by telephone (703) 324-1300 or through the PLUS system: PLUS ACA-Accela Citizen Access2. For more information, please see the flyer below.
| | Land Development Services Launches Tenant Support Services Pilot Program | |
Are you a business owner planning to lease space in an existing building? If your project involves 5,000 square feet or less and minor interior alterations, you may qualify for Fairfax County’s Tenant Support Services (TSS) Pilot Program.
The TSS Pilot Program is designed to help small tenant projects move through the permit approval process more efficiently by providing early guidance, clear expectations, and coordinated review support.
We strongly encourage applicants to contact the program before signing a lease to confirm that the space is suitable for your proposed business use.
What the Program Provides:
Participants in the TSS Pilot Program receive:
- A single point of contact within Fairfax County government throughout the project
- An early review of proposed business operations to confirm zoning and building code compatibility before ever signing a lease
- A clear outline of the permit approval process from start to finish, including which agencies will be involved and submittal expectations
- Coordinated support during the design process to reduce resubmissions and unexpected project delays
- Expedited building permit review, with a target turnaround of 3-5 business days for complete and eligible submissions
- Continued support through construction, inspections and issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy
How to Participate:
Submit the Tenant Support Services Interest Form here.
A Staff Coordinator will contact you within two business days to determine eligibility and explain next steps.
For more details on eligibility criteria and the pilot phase for this program, visit the Tenant Support Service Pilot Program webpage.
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Connect Fairfax County
The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) is encouraging the community to register their security cameras with Connect Fairfax County. This program helps our detectives quickly identify potential video evidence in the area of a crime. Registration is free.
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Road Shark Returns!
The FCPD Road Shark initiative returns this month with a continued focus on safer roads across Fairfax County. Through education, enforcement, and visibility, we’re working to reduce dangerous driving behaviors and keep our roadways safe for everyone.
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April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Child Abuse Awareness Month
FCPD remains committed to listening, supporting, and advocating every step of the way and reaffirm our commitment to protecting children in our community.
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Disability Safety and Practice Interaction Day
The Arc of NOVA is excited to invite you to attend and share information about an upcoming community event hosted by Arc and many other partners: First Responder Interaction Day on Saturday, April 25th, 10 AM-2 PM at the Fairfax Fire Training Academy on West Ox Rd.
This free event is designed to help individuals with disabilities, their families, and community members learn how to safely and confidently interact with first responders in emergency situations. Participants will have the opportunity to meet local first responders, learn about emergency and crisis resources, and practice real-life scenarios in a supportive environment.
At the event, you can:
• Meet and interact with police, fire, and emergency personnel
• Practice navigating emergency scenarios through role-play
• Learn about helpful safety tools like disability ID cards and Emergency Health Profiles
• Explore community resources that support safety and independence
These interactive experiences help build understanding and confidence for both community members and first responders, strengthening safety and communication for everyone involved.
The Arc of NoVA encourages you to attend and share this opportunity with families, colleagues, and community members who may benefit.
Visit here for event details and registration.
| | Resources for Older Adults & Caregivers | | |
Service Source Community Events for Older Adults
Service Source is hosting community events for older adults. See the calendar below for event dates and times.
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Aging Well Resource Guide
The Aging Well Resource Guide provides information on services, programs, recreational activities, educational opportunities, and community engagement activities for older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers.
For questions or assistance please reach out to:
Aging, Disability and Caregiver Resources Line
703-324-7948, TTY 711
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Experienced social workers answer calls, listen to your questions and concerns, and then help you find appropriate resources. Interpretation services are available.
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Learn How to Protect Yourself from Scams and Fraud at Scam Jam 2026
Each year, millions of Americans fall victim to scams and fraud. In 2024, $12.5 billion was lost, up 25 percent from 2023, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Unfortunately, older adults are often a favorite target of scammers. One of the best ways to guard against scams is by educating yourself about scams and fraud and staying up to date on the latest scams in your community. Read more.
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Trail Ranger Program
Help keep Fairfax County’s trails and sidewalks clean, safe, and welcoming.
The Trail Ranger Program is a volunteer initiative that empowers residents to support walking, biking, and rolling throughout the county by caring for the paths we use every day.
Trails and sidewalks are essential for getting around, but they aren’t regularly swept or monitored. Many issues go unreported, leading to debris, hazards, and neglected areas. Trail Rangers help fill that gap — and make a visible difference in their community.
Upcoming Events:
Trail clean up on April 11
Group bike ride on April 18
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Capital Bikeshare Virtual Public Meeting
The Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) will host a virtual public meeting on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 7 p.m. to gather input on proposed Capital Bikeshare stations in the Providence, Braddock and Springfield Districts.
Up to 17 new Capital Bikeshare stations are proposed along the I-66 Parallel Trail corridor between Fairfax/Fair Lakes and Dunn Loring. The stations will be funded through an I-66 Commuter Choice grant from the Northern Virginia Transportation Commission.
During the meeting, FCDOT staff will explain how bikeshare works, discuss project funding and share maps of the proposed station locations.
Staff also will ask for public feedback
on where stations should go.
Meeting Information
Meeting ID: 278 223 443 073 01
Passcode: C8qn6KF3
- Join by phone: 571-429-5982
- Phone Conference ID: 884 801 97#
The regional Capital Bikeshare system has more than 800 stations in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia, including 96 in Fairfax County. The system helps people commute, run errands and reach entertainment and leisure destinations. It also makes it easier for riders to connect to Metrorail, bus routes and other travel options.
Community input is essential in determining the final station selections and supporting a successful expansion of the program. The public will be able to submit comments and feedback via online survey, email, telephone and/or U.S. Mail. Detailed participation instructions will be available on the County’s Capital Bikeshare website following the virtual meeting on April 8.
| | Follow Supervisor Rachna Sizemore Heizer on
Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin, Bluesky, and 'X.' | | | | |
