Clark County Commissioner Jim Gibson is inviting residents to attend Evening with the Stars of Foster Care, a free community event highlighting the needs of children and teens in foster care and the vital role foster parents play. The event is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 2, at Whitney Recreation Center, 5712 E. Missouri Ave., Las Vegas.

The event will connect attendees with experienced foster parents and Clark County Family Services staff to learn about foster parent licensing, training options and support systems available to those who open their homes to children in need.

“Every child deserves the safety, care and encouragement of a stable home,” said Commissioner Gibson. “Events like this help our community understand the vital role foster parents play — and how each of us can help ensure every child has a chance to thrive.”

On an average day, about 75 children live at Child Haven, Clark County’s emergency shelter, while they wait for placement in supportive homes. Many are part of sibling groups, are very young or have medical or developmental needs, making it harder to find suitable caregivers. Family Services is seeking families and individuals who can commit to supporting the complex needs of children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Foster caregivers often help children by taking them for medical or mental health services, or by actively participating in a child’s behavioral therapeutic plan.

Clark County has expanded its caregiver network, increasing licensed foster homes from 684 to 963—a 41% rise since 2022 that includes 417 regular, 309 relative and kinship and 237 specialized homes. Even with the growth, Family Services estimates the County needs at least 200 more regular licensed homes to meet demand. Currently, there are just over 3,600 children in foster care in Clark County.

Information on training options, including accelerated pathways, will be available on-site. The event is free and open to the public. To RSVP or learn more, visit clarkcountyfostercare.com.