OAKTON, VA—May 7, 2008— Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS) will host the 2008 Road to Independence Gala this Friday, May 9, at 6:30 p.m. at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner. At the event, Congressman Tom Davis and anchorwoman JC Hayward of WUSA-9 will be honored with NVFS’ Community Champion awards. These awards commemorate their distinguished service on behalf of families and children in our area. The Gala will also feature live and silent auctions, with proceeds benefiting the vital community programs offered by NVFS.
NVFS has much to celebrate. In addition to continuing the programs and services that help over 22,000 people each year, NVFS has also been given new opportunities to serve over the past year due to its long and successful track record. NVFS was selected as one of only two local non-profits to win Bank of America’s Neighborhood Builder’s Award grant, providing $200,000 to build program capacity. NVFS has also been selected to oversee and operate the Arlington Head Start early learning program, which, combined with the already successful Early Head Start service, will create a seamless early education program for children aged 0-5 years. Another significant landmark for NVFS was its assumption of the services previously provided by the Center for Multicultural Human Services in April. These new services expand NVFS’ expertise in delivering quality care to the multicultural community, with new expertise in 30 languages.
As NVFS moves forward, it is important to recognize its roots as an organization staffed by people who are committed to community service, funded by generous corporate sponsors, civic organizations and individuals, and sustained by dedicated volunteers. Tickets to the 2008 Road to Independence Gala can be purchased by calling 703.219.2120. Media passes to the event are available.