From Washoe County:
A new Family Engagement Center is coming this fall to Washoe County. With the help of a Victims of Crimes Act (VOCA) federal grant, Washoe County Social Services purchased a building located at 905 E. Prater Way earlier this year and renovation is underway.
The new Family Engagement Center will offer a more expansive indoor and outdoor visitation space, playground and more parking for staff, birth and foster parents. The center will be a multi-use facility with an open, natural environment featuring various fun activities for children of all ages. The center’s décor will be strategically placed and the walls painted with bright, creative colors known to stimulate reconciliation and create a safe, positive environment for parents and children alike. The center will be a place for families to meet interact, explore, grow and relax.
Visitation between parents and their children is a critical part of the reunification process. Studies show natural, spacious environments reduce anxiety and depression.
“The Family Engagement Center will be pivotal in providing a safe and secure place where staff can serve children in Washoe County who have been victims of abuse and neglect. It’s also available to extended family, estranged, biological and foster parents to utilize while children are placed outside of the home,” Washoe County Social Services Director Amber Howell said.
From Washoe County
