Washoe County's FAM initiative seeks foster, adoptive and mentor volunteers as foster-care numbers outstrip homes

Yasmin (recruiter) and Monica (support staff) from the Washoe County Human Services Agency presented the FAM initiative to the Sun Valley community, urging residents to consider fostering, adopting, mentoring or contributing to a wishing-well fund.

"FAM stands for foster, adopt, and mentor," Yasmin said, and described program components including foster-parent licensing requirements (minimum age 21) and ongoing supports such as caseworkers, peer foster-parent networks and childcare subsidies.

presenters said Washoe County currently has "over 600 children in foster care" and "less than 150 licensed foster homes," which the agency framed as a capacity gap the initiative aims to address. They described alternative ways to help beyond fostering: short-term respite providers, mentoring relationships (recommended one-year commitment, monthly contact as a minimum), and monetary donations that go directly to youth in need.

The presenters also described outreach and community events: FanFest (family movie night at Sparks Marina on Aug. 11), volunteer opportunities and printed contact materials. One presenter noted partnerships that can supply clothing and necessities to placed children.

Members of the public praised the program and asked about local volunteer opportunities. A foster parent in the audience gave a personal endorsement, urging others to consider mentoring if fostering is not possible.

Next steps: The agency said it will keep recruiting, offer informational sessions and present additional materials to the community. Contact information and printed handouts were left on the table for residents to take.