Fairfax County Police Department News

Fairfax County, VA– On November 23, the Fairfax County Police Department’s Victim Services Division (VSD) hosted its Radiance & Resilience event at Great Clips in Fairfax, uniting law enforcement professionals, local businesses, and community partners in support of 16 domestic violence survivors. Held during the Thanksgiving season, the gathering underscored the department’s commitment to fostering community, compassion, and healing.

The event opened with remarks from Lori Carter, herself a survivor of domestic violence, who welcomed attendees and shared her powerful story of resilience. Guests received complimentary hair, beauty, and wellness services, as well as access to supportive resources throughout the morning. VSD advocates were on-site to provide emotional support, and the program concluded with inspiring words from Angelique Palmer, the Fairfax County Poet Laureate, who offered messages of hope, strength, and healing.

In addition to VSD advocates, detectives from the Fairfax County Police Department’s Domestic Violence Unit partnered closely with the Victim Services Division throughout the event. Their presence underscored the department’s holistic approach to supporting survivors—combining investigative expertise with trauma-informed advocacy to ensure safety, trust, and compassionate care. This collaboration reflects FCPD’s commitment to addressing domestic violence not only through enforcement, but through healing-centered community engagement.

“Survivors deserved moments where they were seen, honored, and supported,” said Ilana Wixted, Victim Services Specialist with the Fairfax County Police Department. “Radiance and Resilience was about so much more than beauty services—it was about restoring dignity, rebuilding confidence, and reminding each survivor that they have a community standing firmly beside them. Every partner who contributed helped create a space of warmth, respect, and empowerment.”

A wide network of local organizations came together to make the event possible. Hairstylists from Great Clips; makeup artists from Baganza Beauty Bar and DC Elite Image; skincare professionals from Lillique Training Institute and We Rest; and the CEO of The Beautiful Movement all contributed their time and expertise. Peet’s Coffee, Bank of America, Carlye Stottlemyer Photography, The Beautiful Movement Project, Bakery Museum and Company, and Tous Les Jours provided refreshments and additional support. Flowers for the bloom bar were donated by Paris Farms and Kewlkrizzy, bilingual interpreters were on hand to assist guests, and counseling services from Wondering Together helped ensure accessibility for all. Students from the Chantilly Academy Cosmetology program also participated.

“We were deeply grateful for the compassion shown by every local business, volunteer, and nonprofit partner who helped make this event possible,” said Saly Fayez, Director of the Fairfax County Police Department’s Victim Services Division. “Their generosity reflected the very best of our community. I was also incredibly proud of our Victim Services staff and Domestic Violence detectives—whose professionalism, dedication, and heart ensured survivors received exceptional support and dignity throughout the event.”

The event concluded with a special appearance by Fairfax County Poet Laureate Angelique Palmer, whose closing remarks and original works centered on empowerment, courage, and renewed strength. The Fairfax County Poet Laureate Program, administered through ArtsFairfax, engages communities through literary arts, workshops, readings, and public performances that elevate stories across the county. Palmer’s participation reflected the program’s mission: to use poetry as a bridge for healing, connection, and renewed confidence.

Domestic violence continues to affect individuals and families across Northern Virginia, often behind closed doors and in silence. Anyone experiencing domestic violence—or anyone who knows someone who may be at risk—is encouraged to seek help. Fairfax County provides confidential support through the Domestic & Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273. Additional resources, including counseling, emergency shelter, safety planning, and legal advocacy, are available through Fairfax County Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (DSVS). National assistance is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

Community members, local businesses, civic groups, and schools who wish to support future FCPD-led initiatives—such as empowerment bag drives, restorative events, and Radiance & Resilience programming—may contact Saly Fayez at (703) 246-2141 or email saly.fayez@fairfaxcounty.gov to explore partnership and volunteer opportunities.

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