Special Events in Fairfax County

Our fundraising events are a chance to spread hope, share joy, and transform lives.

United Community hosts special events throughout the year that raise critical support for families throughout Fairfax County.

These events lift up our entire community, helping us remove barriers to stability and building brighter futures.

Back to School Drive

Ready. Set. Back to School!

United Community’s Back to School Drive is expanding beyond traditional school supply drives to address the full range of challenges that impact a child’s ability to succeed when the school year begins.

Guided by input from families, educators, and community leaders, the initiative will support essential needs such as school supplies, childcare assistance, access to nutritious meals, classroom resources for teachers, technology and digital literacy, transportation, language access, mental health supports, and basic necessities like clothing and hygiene items.

By investing in the broader ecosystem that helps students thrive, donors can play a meaningful role in ensuring children and families start the school year prepared, confident, and ready to learn.

Thanksgiving Food Drive

Because every family deserves a seat at the table.

More than 85 percent of United Community clients live at or below the federal poverty level.

Families are working hard, yet still face the painful question of whether there will be enough to eat tonight.

At United Community, we believe no one should have to face that choice alone, and that’s why our Thanksgiving Food Drive is so important.

Food is more than nutrition; it’s comfort, tradition, and security. Our neighbors come from many cultures, so we welcome donations like rice, lentils, beans, Maseca flour, cooking oils, and spices — items that allow families to prepare meals that feel like home. By offering culturally appropriate foods, we honor the dignity and traditions of every household we serve.

This fall, you can help ensure every family has a reason to gather in gratitude:

Donate food that reflects the diversity of our community.
Volunteer your time to greet families, sort donations, and share meals with compassion.
Spread the word by inviting friends, neighbors, and coworkers.
Give financially: every $1 provides 2 meals, multiplying the impact of your generosity.

Sponsored by:

If you are interested in sponsoring this year’s Fall Food Drive, please reach out to [email protected]

Drop Off Contributions

7511 Fordson Rd. Alexandria, VA 22306

Mon: 1pm–4pm
Tues: 10am–12pm
Wed: 10am–12pm
Thurs: 10am–12pm

Holiday Giving Tree Campaign

United Community’s Giving Tree program brings our community together to share joy and kindness during the holiday season. Trees are hosted by local businesses, organizations, and faith-based groups, each decorated with ornaments representing the wishes of children in United Community’s programs — from toys and books to warm clothes and school supplies. Members of the community are invited to choose an ornament and fulfill a child’s wish, ensuring that every child experiences the warmth and wonder of the holidays.

This campaign directly supports children and families in United Community’s early learning, afterschool, and family support programs. Your generosity helps lift the burden for parents and brings smiles to little faces across our neighborhoods. Every gift reminds families that their community cares.

If your business or organization would like to host a Giving Tree and help spread holiday cheer, please contact Cecilia Fix at cecilia.fix@unitedcommunity.org.

2027 ALX South Block Party

Date: TBD

Location: 2709 Popkins Ln., Alexandria, VA 22306

The ALX South Block Party is a free, community-driven event that brings together local residents, families, and businesses for a day of connection, celebration, and fun. The event features live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, including face painting, games, fitness classes, and a sensory-friendly Touch-a-Truck zone.