Formerly known as Have a Heart Washoe

Be The FAM

Where Love, Support, & Change Begin

BE THE FAM

About Us

Formerly known as Have a Heart Washoe — you’re in the right place! We’re still doing the same meaningful work, just with a new name.

FAM (Foster, Adopt, Mentor), part of the Washoe County Human Services Agency, believes that every child deserves a loving, stable home. We work to connect children in foster care with families who can provide the support and opportunities they need to thrive.

Beyond placing children in caring homes, we’re committed to working with local communities by offering essential resources and guidance. Through strong partnerships and engagement, FAM fosters a caring, resilient community where children, families, and caregivers can grow.

.

Three little children, two school kid boys and toddler girl having fun with rainbow drawing with colorful chalks on asphalt.

A Team Effort For Every Child 
Your Support Is Key

Matching kids with the perfect family that suits their needs is our ultimate goal; however, achieving our goal cannot be done without the support of amazing people like you!

Happy Hispanic foster mother piggybacking with cute little African American foster child on her back.

Foster

There are over 600 children in the Washoe County Human Services Agency Foster System, and fewer than 400 foster families. You can make a difference in a child’s life.

Plus size Hispanic girl smiling.

Adopt

Help children become members of a family that can give them the love, care, protection and opportunities essential for their healthy personal growth and development.

Adult white mentor man talking with white teen foster boy at skate park on the ramp after skating together.

Mentor

Just an hour or more of your time each week can make a huge difference to a foster child. As a mentor, you will become a role model and friend to them.

Ready To Be The FAM?

Get in touch with a FAM team member today. Together we can make a change!

Our Team

Meet our dedicated team at FAM, a group of passionate individuals committed to making a difference in the lives of foster children and families. With diverse backgrounds and expertise, we work collaboratively to provide support, guidance, and resources to those who need it most.

Amy Clift HSA Division Coordinator

Amy Clift

HSA Division Coordinator

Laura Caprioli FAM Program Supervisor

Laura Caprioli

FAM Program Supervisor

Mitch Mathews FAM Recruitment & Training

Mitch Matthews

FAM Recruitment & Training

Brenda Silis FAM Recruitment & Training

Brenda Silis

FAM Recruitment & Training

Myra Yeargan FAM Recruitment & Training

Myra Yeargan

FAM Recruitment & Training

Kate Alvarez FAM Recruitment & Training

Kate Alvarez

FAM Recruitment & Training

Monica Kirkendall FAM Welcome & Support

Monica Kirkendall

FAM Welcome & Support

Did You Know In Washoe County…

These statistics help highlight the critical need for foster parents, resources, and support to improve the lives of children in care in our community.

Average Number Of Kids In Foster Care
0
Average Number Of Licensed Foster Homes
0
Calls of Child Abuse & Negelct A Year
0
Average Days A Kid Is In Care to Permanency
0

“Foster and adoptive families, along with mentors, are the foundation of healing and growth. Supporting them is an investment in brighter futures for every child in our care, because our kids are a priority. We are dedicated to ensuring that, despite the challenges, they always have the support they need.”

FAM Team