Adoption in Washoe County
Finding Permanent, Loving, and Supportive Families for Children in Care
Adoption is the social and legal process through which a child becomes part of a family different from their birth parents. It is a permanent, lifelong commitment to a child’s safety, stability, and well-being.
Our team supports families throughout every step of the adoption process, offering guidance, resources, and services for both adoptive families and children waiting for permanent homes.
How We Support Adoptive Families and Children
Adoption Home Studies: Assessment and preparation of prospective adoptive families to ensure safe and nurturing homes.
Training and Education: Workshops and resources to help families understand adoption, parenting, and the unique needs of children from foster care.
Post-Adoption Services: Ongoing guidance and support, including counseling and access to community resources, to help families thrive after adoption.
Information About Children Waiting for Adoption: Our team provides details and profiles of children in foster care seeking permanent families.
Who Can Adopt
Individuals, couples, and families from all backgrounds are welcome to foster. Foster parents all share a common goal of providing safety, stability, and hope for children in need, making a lasting difference in their lives.
Be The FAM
Every day, children in Washoe County wait for permanent, loving homes, creating a critical need for adults to step forward. Through the Be the FAM initiative, our team encourages community members to adopt, fostering a lifelong bond that provides stability, love, and security for children in care.
Adoption is a powerful way to change a child’s life forever. By choosing to adopt, you provide a permanent home where a child can thrive and feel safe. Our team guides families through the entire process, from learning about adoption and attending orientations to connecting with children ready for their forever families, ensuring you feel supported and prepared at every step.
Even if adoption isn’t possible, there are other ways to help, such as mentoring or supporting children in foster care. Be the FAM means being family in whatever way you can, giving every child the love, stability, and hope they deserve, and making a lasting difference in their life.
Contact Us

Phone: (775) 337-4470
Email: BeTheFAM@washoecounty.gov
Website: BeTheFAM.washoecounty.gov
Hours of Operation:
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
(Closed on all Federal and Nevada State holidays)