Community Champions: Building Trust Through Community Connection

By Rebecca Barnes, Publisher, Prince William Living

In a growing and diverse community like Prince William County, access to healthcare is not just about facilities and services. It is about trust, relationships, and meeting people where they are. One local healthcare professional, Rozlyn Giddens, has made that work her focus every day, quietly strengthening the connection between residents and the care they need.

Serving as a Program Manager of Community Engagement with UVA Health, she ensures the organization maintains a visible and meaningful presence across Manassas, Haymarket, and the surrounding region. From health fairs and school programs to local events and community meetings, her work is rooted in direct, consistent engagement.

According to her nomination submitted by the UVA Health team, “she truly embodies what it means to serve, connect, and uplift our community.” Her approach is intentional. She does not wait for people to come to healthcare. She brings healthcare into the community in ways that feel accessible, practical, and welcoming.

Her efforts focus especially on reaching underserved populations. She works closely with cultural ambassadors who provide translation services and partners with clinical teams to offer free health screenings, including blood pressure checks, at community events. At local sporting events, she organizes first-aid support, ensuring safety is present even outside traditional healthcare settings.

“She intentionally seeks to engage everyone,” the nomination states, “ensuring that community members feel seen, valued, and supported.”

That work depends on relationships. She maintains partnerships across a wide network, including local police, schools, government agencies, the Virginia Department of Health, nonprofit organizations, and business leaders. These connections expand access to health resources and strengthen coordination across the region.

Her impact is not limited to her professional role. Outside of work, she continues to build community in everyday ways, organizing neighborhood gatherings and volunteering within her homeowners’ association. Her background, which includes living and traveling internationally, informs her commitment to understanding different cultures and creating a sense of belonging.

“Her enthusiasm for volunteering and meeting with the community is infectious,” the nomination explains. “She is always connecting with the UVA Health team to join her in volunteering for community events.”

Through these consistent efforts, she is helping shape a model of community health that is rooted in trust, visibility, and inclusion. The work is not always visible, but the impact is clear in stronger relationships, increased access, and a supported community.

Described as dedicated, inclusive, compassionate, and community-focused, she represents what Community Champions is meant to recognize: individuals who strengthen the fabric of our region through service that is both intentional and sustained.

Help us shine a light on local heroes in Prince William County—nominate someone making an impact today!

Submit your nomination for Community Champions, Prince William Living’s series recognizing outstanding individuals who serve, support, and strengthen our community. Your nomination can help honor their important work.

Nominate now at princewilliamliving.com/community-champions-nominate-one-today/

Rebecca Barnes is the publisher of Prince William Living and a longtime advocate for community storytelling and service. In addition to leading the magazine, she serves as the Public Information Officer for the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department and has supported the Prince William Valor Awards, helping recognize first responders for acts of courage and dedication. With more than 30 years in local media and community leadership, Rebecca is committed to sharing the stories of the people who strengthen Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park every day.