FACETS is a non-profit organization that helps people who are stricken by poverty in Fairfax County. On June 12, FACETS held its annual Academic Achievement Party for 122 children and teens supported by them in four low-income communities. They honored children who earned A’s and B’s on their report cards, including 21 of whom are graduating from high school. They also honored 14 adults who graduated from vocation training, ESL and computer classes, paving the way for better employment.
FACETS Executive Director Joe Fay said, "Our Academic Achievement parties are one of our favorite events of the year. There’s nothing more special than helping young people use education as a way to break the cycle of poverty. We’ve had a lot to celebrate. For the third year in a row, we’ve had 100 percent of our graduating seniors move on to higher education.”
According to Centre View, "Children received certificates for improving their grades, graduating from elementary, middle or high school. The 21 graduating high school seniors all attended FACETS’ afterschool programs and 100 percent are going on to either a two- or four- year post-secondary institution. The 14 adults who were recognized also attended FACETS’ education and community development centers and completed some form of training, i.e. Nursing Assistant, HVAC repair, computer literacy, financial stability training.
FACETS’ operates an education and community development program year-round in four low-income, subsidized communities offering a variety of supportive services to break the cycle of poverty. People living in these affordable housing communities have limited financial resources, with the average income for a family of four near $18,000. At Barros Circle in Centreville; Robinson Square in Fairfax; Ragan Oaks in Fairfax; and Wedgewood in Annandale, staff and volunteers offer an array of educational, preventative and enrichment programs to help youth, including mentoring and tutoring, and a variety of classes such as literacy, art, computer, and substance abuse and dating violence prevention."
FACETS also provide safe places to sleep and nutritious meals to men and women who are homeless through its Hypothermia Prevention and Response Program.
Maryam
View posts by MaryamMaryam N. is a Senior Writer at Nesbitt Realty. She is an expert on Fairfax County. Maryam has also worked previously as a geologist. She is a foodie and enjoys cooking and exploring new restaurants.