UPCOMING EVENTS

Lunch. Learn. Inspire.
Nov
6

Lunch. Learn. Inspire.

Join us and advocate Gary Shulman (MS. Ed.) for one or all of our 2025 one-hour sessions where you can share issues and challenges you’re facing as a parent, loved one, or caregiver to someone with a developmental disability. Gary and our team will provide resource ideas, stories, empathy, and connection with the other families present. It is a sharing and caring discussion with heart.

Register Here

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Fall TOPSoccer (Final Session)
Oct
26

Fall TOPSoccer (Final Session)

Grab your cleats, put on some athletic clothing, fill up your water bottle, and get ready for a new season of TOPSoccer! Come enjoy the beautiful game with volunteer buddies, an experienced coach, and new friends.

Please pre-register so we are prepared to play, and check your email for any weather-related updates.

What to expect:

At TOPSoccer we focus on building skills in a non-competitive environment. All ability levels are welcome, but players should be comfortable with separating from parents/guardians, staying with a group and following basic verbal directions from coaches and trained buddies.  TOPSoccer players are paired with a peer buddy, and multiple coaches are on the field at all times.  TOPSoccer players and buddies warm up in a circle and then break into small groups to focus on core skills like dribbling and shooting.  The second half of practice is usually spent on fun, large group activities. Coaches and buddies use voice prompts only - no whistles - to engage players.  Frequent rest/water breaks are provided.  Each TOPSoccer session ends with a circle cool down and an (optional) group cheer. 

Please note that it is the parent/guardian's responsibility to supervise their player at all times - buddies and coaches cannot leave the field during practice sessions and will not accompany any player who elects to leave the field during practice.  

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Fairfax Funky Flea - last one of 2025!
Oct
25

Fairfax Funky Flea - last one of 2025!

Stroll. Browse. Have something appraised by Linda Cunningham Goldstein, a Sotheby's-trained appraiser and former National Trust Museum Director. She appraises jewelry, furniture, prints, paintings, glass, china, pottery, silver, textiles and collectibles for the low, low fee of $15 per appraisal. Enjoy the food trucks, including Hawaiian Shave Ice, Fresh Squeezed Lemonade, Fresh roasted coffee, and baked goods. There may be live music at the Flea Market.

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Fall TOPSoccer
Oct
19

Fall TOPSoccer

Grab your cleats, put on some athletic clothing, fill up your water bottle, and get ready for a new season of TOPSoccer! Come enjoy the beautiful game with volunteer buddies, an experienced coach, and new friends.

Please pre-register so we are prepared to play, and check your email for any weather-related updates.

What to expect:

At TOPSoccer we focus on building skills in a non-competitive environment. All ability levels are welcome, but players should be comfortable with separating from parents/guardians, staying with a group and following basic verbal directions from coaches and trained buddies.  TOPSoccer players are paired with a peer buddy, and multiple coaches are on the field at all times.  TOPSoccer players and buddies warm up in a circle and then break into small groups to focus on core skills like dribbling and shooting.  The second half of practice is usually spent on fun, large group activities. Coaches and buddies use voice prompts only - no whistles - to engage players.  Frequent rest/water breaks are provided.  Each TOPSoccer session ends with a circle cool down and an (optional) group cheer. 

Please note that it is the parent/guardian's responsibility to supervise their player at all times - buddies and coaches cannot leave the field during practice sessions and will not accompany any player who elects to leave the field during practice.  

View Event →
Fall TOPSoccer
Oct
5

Fall TOPSoccer

Grab your cleats, put on some athletic clothing, fill up your water bottle, and get ready for a new season of TOPSoccer! Come enjoy the beautiful game with volunteer buddies, an experienced coach, and new friends.

Please pre-register so we are prepared to play, and check your email for any weather-related updates.

What to expect:

At TOPSoccer we focus on building skills in a non-competitive environment. All ability levels are welcome, but players should be comfortable with separating from parents/guardians, staying with a group and following basic verbal directions from coaches and trained buddies.  TOPSoccer players are paired with a peer buddy, and multiple coaches are on the field at all times.  TOPSoccer players and buddies warm up in a circle and then break into small groups to focus on core skills like dribbling and shooting.  The second half of practice is usually spent on fun, large group activities. Coaches and buddies use voice prompts only - no whistles - to engage players.  Frequent rest/water breaks are provided.  Each TOPSoccer session ends with a circle cool down and an (optional) group cheer. 

Please note that it is the parent/guardian's responsibility to supervise their player at all times - buddies and coaches cannot leave the field during practice sessions and will not accompany any player who elects to leave the field during practice.  

View Event →
Fall TOPSoccer
Sep
28

Fall TOPSoccer

Grab your cleats, put on some athletic clothing, fill up your water bottle, and get ready for a new season of TOPSoccer! Come enjoy the beautiful game with volunteer buddies, an experienced coach, and new friends.

Please pre-register so we are prepared to play, and check your email for any weather-related updates.

What to expect:

At TOPSoccer we focus on building skills in a non-competitive environment. All ability levels are welcome, but players should be comfortable with separating from parents/guardians, staying with a group and following basic verbal directions from coaches and trained buddies.  TOPSoccer players are paired with a peer buddy, and multiple coaches are on the field at all times.  TOPSoccer players and buddies warm up in a circle and then break into small groups to focus on core skills like dribbling and shooting.  The second half of practice is usually spent on fun, large group activities. Coaches and buddies use voice prompts only - no whistles - to engage players.  Frequent rest/water breaks are provided.  Each TOPSoccer session ends with a circle cool down and an (optional) group cheer. 

Please note that it is the parent/guardian's responsibility to supervise their player at all times - buddies and coaches cannot leave the field during practice sessions and will not accompany any player who elects to leave the field during practice.  

View Event →
Fairfax Funky Flea
Sep
27

Fairfax Funky Flea

Stroll. Browse. Have something appraised by Linda Cunningham Goldstein, a Sotheby's-trained appraiser and former National Trust Museum Director. She appraises jewelry, furniture, prints, paintings, glass, china, pottery, silver, textiles and collectibles for the low, low fee of $15 per appraisal. Enjoy the food trucks, including Hawaiian Shave Ice, Fresh Squeezed Lemonade, Fresh roasted coffee, and baked goods. There may be live music at the Flea Market.

View Event →
Fall TOPSoccer
Sep
21

Fall TOPSoccer

Grab your cleats, put on some athletic clothing, fill up your water bottle, and get ready for a new season of TOPSoccer! Come enjoy the beautiful game with volunteer buddies, an experienced coach, and new friends.

Please pre-register so we are prepared to play, and check your email for any weather-related updates.

What to expect:

At TOPSoccer we focus on building skills in a non-competitive environment. All ability levels are welcome, but players should be comfortable with separating from parents/guardians, staying with a group and following basic verbal directions from coaches and trained buddies.  TOPSoccer players are paired with a peer buddy, and multiple coaches are on the field at all times.  TOPSoccer players and buddies warm up in a circle and then break into small groups to focus on core skills like dribbling and shooting.  The second half of practice is usually spent on fun, large group activities. Coaches and buddies use voice prompts only - no whistles - to engage players.  Frequent rest/water breaks are provided.  Each TOPSoccer session ends with a circle cool down and an (optional) group cheer. 

Please note that it is the parent/guardian's responsibility to supervise their player at all times - buddies and coaches cannot leave the field during practice sessions and will not accompany any player who elects to leave the field during practice.  

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Fall TOP Soccer Opening Day! (Copy)
Sep
14

Fall TOP Soccer Opening Day! (Copy)

Grab your cleats, put on some athletic clothing, fill up your water bottle, and get ready for a new season of TOP Soccer! Come enjoy the beautiful game with volunteer buddies, an experienced coach, and new friends.

Please pre-register so we are prepared to play, and check your email for any weather-related updates.

What to expect at TOPSoccer

At TOPSoccer we focus on building skills in a non-competitive environment. All ability levels are welcome, but players should be comfortable with separating from parents/guardians, staying with a group and following basic verbal directions from coaches and trained buddies.  TOPSoccer players are paired with a peer buddy, and multiple coaches are on the field at all times.  TOPSoccer players and buddies warm up in a circle and then break into small groups to focus on core skills like dribbling and shooting.  The second half of practice is usually spent on fun, large group activities. Coaches and buddies use voice prompts only - no whistles - to engage players.  Frequent rest/water breaks are provided.  Each TOPSoccer session ends with a circle cool down and an (optional) group cheer. 

Please note that it is the parent/guardian's responsibility to supervise their player at all times - buddies and coaches cannot leave the field during practice sessions and will not accompany any player who elects to leave the field during practice.  

View Event →
Buddy Training for Fall TOP Soccer
Sep
14

Buddy Training for Fall TOP Soccer

Grab your cleats, put on some athletic clothing, fill up your water bottle, and get ready for a new season of TOP Soccer! Come help others enjoy the beautiful game as a volunteer buddy! First session of the season immediately follows the training and lasts until 5:15pm.

Please come prepared to play, with lots of love and enthusiasm. Check your email for any weather-related updates.

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PRCS KidsFest
Sep
1

PRCS KidsFest

Entertainment*

  • DJ BiFocals
  • Clown
  • Stilt Walker
  • Roaming Magician Ken Caplan

*Subject to change.

 Free Activities*

  • Double A’s Pony to Go Petting Zoo
  • Face Painting
  • Balloon Twisters
  • Touch-A-Truck
  • Inflatables
  • Glitter Tattoos by Wreck It Rage Roomz
  • Splatter Paint by Wreck It Rage Roomz
  • Foam Party
  • Games
  • Coloring
  • Chalk Zone
  • Toddler Zone
  • & More!

*Subject to change.

Vendors
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Virginia Scottish Games (Day 2)
Aug
31

Virginia Scottish Games (Day 2)

Halò! Find the Virginia Scottish Games — an annual celebration of Scottish heritage and traditions — at Great Meadow from August 30-31, 2025.

This weekend-long cultural festival features so much to see and enjoy:

Competitions
Witness events like Piping & Drumming, Heavy Athletics, Highland Dance, and Fiddling.

Clans, Societies, & Heritage
Explore your Scottish ancestry and connect with others who share your passion for Scottish heritage. Whether you’re tracing your family tree or simply fascinated by Scottish culture, you’ll find a welcoming community.

Food & Shopping
Savor a variety of Scottish delicacies! Indulge in meat pies, bridies, fish & chips, shortbread, Scotch eggs, and other festival treats like a whisky-tasting experience! Plus, enjoy browsing vendors and crafters for unique finds.

Music
Immerse yourself in the sounds of Scotland, including singing, pipes, drums, and more! Enjoy the rich musical traditions that bring the festival to life.

Get your kilt ready, and see you at the games!

Details:
WebsiteTickets

View Event →
Virginia Scottish Games
Aug
30

Virginia Scottish Games

Halò! Find the Virginia Scottish Games — an annual celebration of Scottish heritage and traditions — at Great Meadow from August 30-31, 2025.

This weekend-long cultural festival features so much to see and enjoy:

Competitions
Witness events like Piping & Drumming, Heavy Athletics, Highland Dance, and Fiddling.

Clans, Societies, & Heritage
Explore your Scottish ancestry and connect with others who share your passion for Scottish heritage. Whether you’re tracing your family tree or simply fascinated by Scottish culture, you’ll find a welcoming community.

Food & Shopping
Savor a variety of Scottish delicacies! Indulge in meat pies, bridies, fish & chips, shortbread, Scotch eggs, and other festival treats like a whisky-tasting experience! Plus, enjoy browsing vendors and crafters for unique finds.

Music
Immerse yourself in the sounds of Scotland, including singing, pipes, drums, and more! Enjoy the rich musical traditions that bring the festival to life.

Get your kilt ready, and see you at the games!

Details:
WebsiteTickets

View Event →
Fairfax Funky Flea
Aug
30

Fairfax Funky Flea

Stroll. Browse. Have something appraised by Linda Cunningham Goldstein, a Sotheby's-trained appraiser and former National Trust Museum Director. She appraises jewelry, furniture, prints, paintings, glass, china, pottery, silver, textiles and collectibles for the low, low fee of $15 per appraisal. Enjoy the food trucks, including Hawaiian Shave Ice, Fresh Squeezed Lemonade, Fresh roasted coffee, and baked goods. There may be live music at the Flea Market.

View Event →
The Basics of the Medicaid Waiver
Aug
28

The Basics of the Medicaid Waiver

Medicaid Waivers are the way Virginia funds services for people with developmental disabilities. Everything from a small amount of respite, to in-home care, to employment supports are covered by Waivers. In this one hour presentation, Lucy Beadnell, the Director of Advocacy at the Arc of Northern Virginia, will review what Waivers are, services Waivers offer, how to apply, and give tips for families on waiting lists for services.

The Arc of Northern Virginia offers a monthly lunch & learn for parents, self-advocates and caregivers.

Register Here
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Parent Encouragement Program's August Virtual Training
Aug
21

Parent Encouragement Program's August Virtual Training

Power Struggles: From Win-Lose to Win-Win
From screen time limits to household chores, everyday requests can quickly become battles between parents and children. This webinar explores the root causes of these conflicts, offers insight into challenging behaviors, and shares strategies to build connection and cooperation at home. Participants receive access to the video recording, an audio version, and supporting handouts.

$25 per household, register here

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Sunset in the Park (With Pups)
Aug
20

Sunset in the Park (With Pups)

This botanical garden offers numerous activities, including this stroll in the park with leashed dogs. Admission ranges from $4-8 and memberships are available. Seems like a nice quiet place to enjoy the outdoors!

Learn more
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Lunch. Learn. Inspire.
Jul
7

Lunch. Learn. Inspire.

Join us and advocate Gary Shulman (MS. Ed.) for one or all of our 2025 one-hour sessions where you can share issues and challenges you’re facing as a parent, loved one, or caregiver to someone with a developmental disability. Gary and our team will provide resource ideas, stories, empathy, and connection with the other families present. It is a sharing and caring discussion with heart.

Register Here

View Event →
TOP Soccer - LAST SESSION
Jun
8

TOP Soccer - LAST SESSION

Join us for the Spring season of TOP Soccer! Bring a water bottle, wear shoes or cleats suitable for the outdoors, and wear comfortable clothing. Please fill out this form to participate.

Player Registration Form

·  Players and buddies should dress for the weather and wear appropriate athletic shoes (cleats and shin guards and recommended, but not required).

·  There is no required dress code. Jerseys are provided at no cost through the Friends in Need non-profit organization. If you are new and need a jersey, or if you are returning and need a different size, please arrive a few minutes early so we can assist you.

·  Sessions are held on the open grass field behind the turf field. Look for our banner, or the TOPSoccer Coaches wearing red or black Gunston coach jerseys and TOPSoccer buddies wearing blue jerseys. 

·  As a reminder, parents/guardians of TOPSoccer players must remain in Grist Mill Park for the duration of practice. You may wish to bring a blanket or lawn chair in case we are practicing on the grass field.

·  Soccer balls are provided. If you bring your own ball, please label it.

·  Players and buddies should bring plenty of water – please label all bottles with your player’s name. 

·  Due to dietary considerations/sensitivities of some of our players, post-practice snacks are not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.

·  Practices may be canceled for inclement weather or coach illness. Please be sure to check email or follow Friends in Need on social media for status updates.

View Event →
TOP Soccer
Jun
1

TOP Soccer

Join us for the Spring season of TOP Soccer! Bring a water bottle, wear shoes or cleats suitable for the outdoors, and wear comfortable clothing. Please fill out this form to participate.

Player Registration Form

·  Players and buddies should dress for the weather and wear appropriate athletic shoes (cleats and shin guards and recommended, but not required).

·  There is no required dress code. Jerseys are provided at no cost through the Friends in Need non-profit organization. If you are new and need a jersey, or if you are returning and need a different size, please arrive a few minutes early so we can assist you.

·  Sessions are held on the open grass field behind the turf field. Look for our banner, or the TOPSoccer Coaches wearing red or black Gunston coach jerseys and TOPSoccer buddies wearing blue jerseys. 

·  As a reminder, parents/guardians of TOPSoccer players must remain in Grist Mill Park for the duration of practice. You may wish to bring a blanket or lawn chair in case we are practicing on the grass field.

·  Soccer balls are provided. If you bring your own ball, please label it.

·  Players and buddies should bring plenty of water – please label all bottles with your player’s name. 

·  Due to dietary considerations/sensitivities of some of our players, post-practice snacks are not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.

·  Practices may be canceled for inclement weather or coach illness. Please be sure to check email or follow Friends in Need on social media for status updates.

View Event →
So Kids SOAR Prom
May
23

So Kids SOAR Prom

For individuals ages 13-30, and their siblings or cousins.

So Kids SOAR is organizing a prom for young adults with physical and developmental disabilities. We are excited to bring back this annual event where our participants and volunteers can let loose, dance to great music, and celebrate with each other! Our past themes have been: Galactic Space Adventure, Adventure Awaits, Under The Sea, Under The Big Top, A Starry Night, A Magical Kingdom, Superheroes and A Wizarding World. This year, we encourage all of our guests to dress up like they're in a western or going to their favorite rodeo! Think cowboys, cowgirls, cowpeople and farming friends!

So Kids SOAR está organizando un baile de graduación para adultos jóvenes con discapacidades físicas y de desarrollo. ¡Estamos emocionados de traer de vuelta este evento anual donde nuestros participantes y voluntarios pueden soltarse, bailar con buena música y celebrar entre ellos! Nuestros temas anteriores han sido: Aventura espacial galáctica, Aventura espera, Bajo el mar, Bajo la gran carpa, Una noche estrellada, un reino mágico, Superhéroes y Un Mundo Mágico. ¡Este año, animamos a todos nuestros invitados a vestirse como si estuvieran en un western o yendo a su rodeo favorito! ¡Piensa en vaqueros, vaqueras, vaqueros y amigos granjeros!

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TOP Soccer
May
18

TOP Soccer

Join us for the Spring season of TOP Soccer! Bring a water bottle, wear shoes or cleats suitable for the outdoors, and wear comfortable clothing. Please fill out this form to participate.

Player Registration Form

·  Players and buddies should dress for the weather and wear appropriate athletic shoes (cleats and shin guards and recommended, but not required).

·  There is no required dress code. Jerseys are provided at no cost through the Friends in Need non-profit organization. If you are new and need a jersey, or if you are returning and need a different size, please arrive a few minutes early so we can assist you.

·  Sessions are held on the open grass field behind the turf field. Look for our banner, or the TOPSoccer Coaches wearing red or black Gunston coach jerseys and TOPSoccer buddies wearing blue jerseys. 

·  As a reminder, parents/guardians of TOPSoccer players must remain in Grist Mill Park for the duration of practice. You may wish to bring a blanket or lawn chair in case we are practicing on the grass field.

·  Soccer balls are provided. If you bring your own ball, please label it.

·  Players and buddies should bring plenty of water – please label all bottles with your player’s name. 

·  Due to dietary considerations/sensitivities of some of our players, post-practice snacks are not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.

·  Practices may be canceled for inclement weather or coach illness. Please be sure to check email or follow Friends in Need on social media for status updates.

View Event →
TOP Soccer
May
11

TOP Soccer

Join us for the Spring season of TOP Soccer! Bring a water bottle, wear shoes or cleats suitable for the outdoors, and wear comfortable clothing. Please fill out this form to participate.

Player Registration Form

·  Players and buddies should dress for the weather and wear appropriate athletic shoes (cleats and shin guards and recommended, but not required).

·  There is no required dress code. Jerseys are provided at no cost through the Friends in Need non-profit organization. If you are new and need a jersey, or if you are returning and need a different size, please arrive a few minutes early so we can assist you.

·  Sessions are held on the open grass field behind the turf field. Look for our banner, or the TOPSoccer Coaches wearing red or black Gunston coach jerseys and TOPSoccer buddies wearing blue jerseys. 

·  As a reminder, parents/guardians of TOPSoccer players must remain in Grist Mill Park for the duration of practice. You may wish to bring a blanket or lawn chair in case we are practicing on the grass field.

·  Soccer balls are provided. If you bring your own ball, please label it.

·  Players and buddies should bring plenty of water – please label all bottles with your player’s name. 

·  Due to dietary considerations/sensitivities of some of our players, post-practice snacks are not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.

·  Practices may be canceled for inclement weather or coach illness. Please be sure to check email or follow Friends in Need on social media for status updates.

View Event →
Ensuring Strength Based IEPS
May
8

Ensuring Strength Based IEPS

This workshop will provide tips on collecting and sharing information about your child’s strengths, information which can be used throughout the IEP document. Your data and observations can contribute to more than just the “Parent input” section of the IEP, whether it relates to your child’s preferences, home responsibilities, hobbies, skills or social interactions. Our presenter is Liz Capone, veteran Special Education advocate.

REGISTER HERE

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New Rules & Updates for Supplemental Social Security Income (SSI) Recipients
May
7

New Rules & Updates for Supplemental Social Security Income (SSI) Recipients

This webinar will focus on new rules from the Social Security Administration released in 2024 that impact all Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients. The changes include new ways to calculate assistance with food and rent, as well as other in-kind assistance. This is a “must see” webinar for any SSI user.

 

The presenter is Claire Kelly, Attorney at Trusts & Wealth, PLLC (https://trustsandwealth.com/). Claire crafts detailed estate plans for discerning clients, and delights in customizing the perfect plan for each family. She always includes planning for incapacity as well, to ensure your loved ones will continue to receive the care they need regardless of your health. Claire specializes in serving Special Needs families, which includes planning for benefits retention through estate planning vehicles such as Special Needs Trusts. Claire has been fortunate to leverage her tax and estate planning knowledge in service of the community. Her volunteer experience includes estate planning for first responders through Wills for Heroes, tax preparation through the Capital Area Asset Builders, and work with the Arc of Northern Virginia. When not collaborating with clients to design their perfect estate plan, Claire enjoys woodworking, traveling, and spending time with her husband and three children.

Register Here

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