Hope for Family Resilience Newsletter Vol. 3 No. 1

---

In this edition

• Awards & Publications
• Community Involvement
• Conference Participants
• Staff Updates & Community Partnerships
• 40-Hour Hope Advocate Training
• Upcoming Events
• Upcoming Trainings
• Additional Resources

About the Newsletter

Welcome to the University of Nevada, Reno Extension’s Hope for Family Resilience Newsletter series! This series serves as a vital resource for individuals and families seeking support, education, and resources to build resilience and foster healthy relationships. Led by our dedicated team of experts, we aim to provide evidence-based strategies, insights, and information to empower individuals and communities to navigate challenges such as domestic violence, family dynamics, and interpersonal relationships. Whether you're looking to enhance your understanding of these issues, access valuable resources, or participate in training programs, our newsletters are here to guide you on your journey towards greater resilience and well-being. Stay connected with us as we continue to share valuable content and opportunities for growth and support.

Awards & Publications

       2026 Outstanding Extension Team

Congratulations to the Hope and Recovery Team on being named the 2026 Outstanding Extension Team at the University of Nevada, Reno's College of Agriculture, Biotechnology, Natural Resources awards night. This prestigious recognition honors the team’s exceptional commitment to strengthening communities through education, collaboration, and compassionate support services. Through innovative programming, community partnerships, and a dedication to helping individuals and families thrive, the Hope and Recovery Team continues to make a lasting impact across Nevada.

 

The award reflects the team’s unwavering efforts to provide meaningful resources focused on recovery, wellness, prevention, and resilience. From outreach and training initiatives to community engagement and support programs, the Hope and Recovery Team exemplifies the mission and values of Extension by meeting people where they are and creating pathways toward hope, healing, and sustainable change. We accept and proudly celebrate this well-deserved achievement and look forward to the continued positive impact the team will make throughout the state in the years to come. 

 

Collaborate with us: HopeTeam@unr.edu

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE AWARDS NIGHT

---

Nevada Today on STOP Grant

Extension’s Hope for Family Resilience Team has been awarded an approximately $87,000 grant from the Nevada Office of the Attorney General to support a new trauma-informed training initiative for law enforcement and legal professionals across the state. Funded through the Services-Training-Officers-Prosecutors and Sexual Assault Services Provider Programs, the project will develop and deliver a four-module series titled “Exposure to Action Series: Trauma-Informed Practices Across Systems.” These free virtual trainings will be offered from May through December 2026 and will provide Continuing Education Units and Continuing Legal Education for participants.

This initiative is open to the public and is designed to strengthen how justice and legal professionals respond to individuals impacted by violence by increasing understanding of trauma and its effects on behavior, communication and decision-making. By emphasizing survivor-centered approaches and reducing the risk of re-traumatization, the training aims to improve safety, trust and collaboration across systems. Building on the Extension’s Hope for Family Resilience program, this effort will expand access to critical, research-based tools and support more effective, compassionate responses for survivors and communities throughout Nevada. 

Read More about the STOP Grant

 

Community Involvement

   

Mom & Me Wellness Retreat 2026

Extension’s Hope and Recovery Team had the privilege of hosting their Second Annual Mom & Me Wellness Retreat earlier this month at Camp Alamo! This retreat is designed for mothers navigating recovery from substance use and/or domestic violence and their children. We were able to double our numbers from last year and ended up taking 20 moms and 35 children to camp for an unforgettable experience! Families were able to reconnect, heal, and create joyful memories together. Not only were families able to build stronger bonds within their own family unit, but they were able to make new connections with other families. Participants enjoyed a variety of outdoor activities such as rock climbing, archery, fishing, crafts and making s’mores around the campfire, all in a safe and supportive environment that encourages bonding, resilience and wellness. 

Due to the success of the Mom & Me Wellness Retreat, the Hope and Recovery Team has decided to host quarterly meet-ups for both moms and children who attended camp to be able to reconnect and support one another! 

---

Community Resource Sharing Meeting

On Feb. 6, 2026, Nevada’s Eighth Judicial District Court Law Enforcement Intervention for Mental Health and Addiction and Extension's Hope for Family Resilience and Recovery teams hosted their biannual Community Resource Sharing Meeting. The event had over 180 participants and 95+ organizations presenting a slide! 

The gathering created a valuable space for cross-sector collaboration, allowing service providers, community partners, and agencies to strengthen connections and increase awareness of the supports available across Southern Nevada. By fostering communication and partnership, the event continues to play an important role in improving coordinated responses for individuals and families impacted by mental health and substance use challenges.

---

 

---

---

   

Food Distribution at The Just One Project  

In December 2025, Liz Ornelas and Micah Stoor proudly volunteered with The Just One Project, supporting a local food distribution effort that provided essential groceries to individuals and families across Southern Nevada.

With recent changes impacting individuals’ access to food benefits, The Just One Project has taken on a critical role in ensuring that no one in Nevada goes hungry. Through innovative, community-based programming, the organization not only addresses immediate food insecurity but also connects individuals and families to long-term resources that promote stability and well-being.

Through hands-on service, Liz and Micah assisted in distributing fresh food and pantry items, helping to ensure that community members had access to nutritious meals during the holiday season. Efforts like these highlight the importance of community partnerships and collective action in meeting basic needs and supporting resilient, healthy communities. 

Sign Up to Volunteer for Food Distribution

Conference Participants

 

2026 Nevada District Court Judges Seminar and Family Law Conference

Pamela B. Payne, Ph.D., CFLE, presented at the 2026 Nevada District Court Judges Seminar and Family Law Conference in Las Vegas, NV, on a topic that continues to create significant discussions within the legal communities. Her session, Chaos, Control and the Court: Rethinking High-Conflict Custody Through a Developmental Lens, challenged traditional assumptions about “high-conflict” custody cases by bring attention to the differences between mutual conflict and patterns of coercive control. Drawing on developmental science and domestic violence research, the presentation encouraged judges to more carefully assess the underlying dynamics affecting children and families on this misunderstood topic. We are thankful to the Administrative Office of the Courts for this opportunity. 

This evolving conversation highlights the importance of informed, trauma-responsive decision-making in family court systems and the effects it has on developing children. To support ongoing education and awareness, a new rack card is now available:

VIEW HIGH CONFLICT RACK CARD      

Copies of this rack card can be requested and mailed directly within the State of Nevada by contacting HopeTeam@unr.edu.

---

     

End Violence Against Women International Conference

Extension's Lead Coordinator, Liz Ornelas, attended the End Violence Against Women International Conference, “Empowering Change: Innovative Response Strategies for Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence,” held April 7–9, 2026, in New Orleans. The event brought together more than 1,700 professionals to collaborate on improving responses to interpersonal violence.

Sessions emphasized trauma-informed, survivor-centered approaches, including how trauma shapes behavior and the importance of viewing survivor responses through a neurobiological lens. Additional discussions focused on accountability and strengthening investigative practices, reinforcing a shared commitment to survivor safety and systemic change.

Staff Updates & Community Partnerships

 

Welcome Stef to Our Healthy Living, Sustainable Recovery Team!

Estefania Herrera (she/they) is a Latina Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a master’s degree in nutrition sciences. Born and raised in Mexico, she later moved to the U.S. and completed her undergraduate and graduate studies in nutrition at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

In 2022, she moved to Portland, Oregon, where she taught Personal Nutrition and Cultural Food Studies at Portland Community College. Her work centers social justice, community well-being, and helping people explore their relationship with food while acknowledging the systems that shape health.

Outside of work, Estefania enjoys nature walks with her husband, playing with her daughter, baking, knitting, reading, collecting cookbooks, listening to podcasts, and watching K-dramas. She is currently focused on slowing down, practicing patience, and caring for herself through movement, nourishment and rest.

---

Chicanos Por La Causa YouthBuild Graduation

The Hope & Recovery Team was proud to host the recent graduation ceremony for 11 participants from Chicanos Por La Causa YouthBuild, a program that empowers young people ages 16–24 to earn their high school equivalency while building critical workforce and leadership skills. Throughout the program, participants engaged in hands-on construction training, career readiness development, and mentorship opportunities that prepared them for meaningful employment and long-term success. This milestone not only celebrates their hard work and dedication but also highlights their commitment to building a stronger future for themselves and their community. It was amazing to have so many families and community members come to support the graduates. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT Chicanos Por La Causa

---

The Shade Tree & WestCare Holiday Cupcake Decorating

Liz Ornelas, Charel Elwell, and Micah Stoor brought holiday cheer to women and their children by hosting cupcake decorating events at The Shade Tree and WestCare Women and Children’s Campus during the holiday season. These gatherings created a warm, welcoming space for families to engage in a fun, hands-on activity while fostering meaningful connection at a time of year that can be both joyful and challenging.

With changes continuing to impact individuals’ access to basic needs and resources, opportunities for joy, stability, and connection are more important than ever. Events like these not only provide a moment of celebration but also support emotional well-being by encouraging positive interactions, creativity, and community-building in safe, supportive environments.

Through decorating cupcakes together, participants shared conversations, laughter, and quality time, strengthening bonds between mothers and their children and building a sense of belonging. These moments of connection reflect the importance of holistic, trauma-informed approaches that nurture both emotional and social well-being.

To help ensure that individuals in shelter or recovery continue to have access to supportive, community-based experiences like these, we encourage readers to stay informed, advocate, and participate in civic processes that promote equitable access to care, resources, and opportunities for all.

Primary elections in Nevada will take place on June 9, 2026, allowing voters to choose candidates for the Nov. 3, 2026, general election. In many local and state races, the primary can effectively determine the outcome. Participating in this election helps ensure that community voices are heard and reflected in the decisions that shape our communities. To register to vote, change/update voter information, or check voter registration status, please click here.

check voter registration here

40-Hour Hope Advocate Training

The Hope Team would like to send a heartfelt congratulations to our most recent 40-Hour Hope Advocate Training graduates! We held a class in Las Vegas in January 2026 and in Reno in March 2026. These week-long classes brought together outstanding groups of professionals dedicated to making change in our Nevada community. We greatly appreciate the rich discussions and diverse perspectives shared on the issues affecting communities across the state of Nevada, including rural areas and tribal nations. Thank you to all who participated for your dedication to advocacy, awareness, resilience and hope! 

Las Vegas January 2026 Hope Advocate Training Participants

Reno March 2026 Hope Advocate Training Participants

2026 Hope Advocate Trainings

   

July 2026

Jul. 40-Hour Hope Advocate Training – North Las Vegas

Location: University of Nevada, Reno Extension

2280 North McDaniel Street, North Las Vegas, NV 89030

Jul. 8, 15, 29, Aug. 5

8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

REGISTER FOR JUL 2026 HAT (VEGAS)

October 2026

Oct. 40-Hour Hope Advocate Training – North Las Vegas

Location: University of Nevada, Reno Extension

2280 North McDaniel Street, North Las Vegas, NV 89030

Oct. 6-9 (consecutive days)

8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

REGISTER FOR OCT 2026 HAT (VEGAS)        

Upcoming Events

 

Summer Community Resource Sharing Meeting

Nevada’s Eighth Judicial District Court Law Enforcement Intervention for Mental Health and Addiction and Extension's Hope for Family Resilience team are gearing up for the next Community Resource Sharing Meeting! Save the date, Aug. 28, 2026 at the East Las Vegas Community Center located at 250 N Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89101 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. At this event, organizations submit a one-page PowerPoint slide and have two minutes to share about who they are and what services they can provide. Our last event was held February 6, 2026 and had over 190 participants and 95+ organizations presenting a slide! This is a great networking opportunity to see what resources are available in the Las Vegas area and connect with local professionals/community members. Interested in submitting a slide, register and submit a slide below.

register for the community resource sharing meeting    

Upcoming Trainings

   

Exposure to Action Training Series

Join The Hope Team for a powerful four-part virtual training series designed for professionals across the legal system. The Exposure to Action Training Series focuses on building trauma-informed skills in investigations, survivor-centered practices, protective orders, and sustainable advocacy. Each session will be offered at two different days and times and offers practical tools to support both effective casework and personal well-being, centering justice with compassion.

This training series is funded through a grant that the Hope Team received from the Services-Training-Officers-Prosecutors and Sexual Assault Services Provider Programs. Participants can earn CEs, CEUs, CLEs, and POST credits. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your impact and resilience, click the link below to register and view training dates.

register for the exposure to action training series

Additional Resources

 

   

Food Access Fair

As a result of the Southern Nevada Food Council's needs assessment, we were able to identify over 100 different food access programs available to Southern Nevada residents. In an effort to help spread awareness of these supportive programs, we are planning a Food Access Fair to take place Sat, May 30th from 12pm to 3pm at Container Park in downtown Las Vegas in partnership with United Way of Southern Nevada. We are hoping for a great turn out for a family friendly event full of joy as people learn about and sign up for ways to make sure they are able to get food as schools close for the summer. This comes at an especially important time where SNAP benefits are being cut, and awareness of alternatives is low. 

RSVP FOR THE FOOD ACCESS FAIR

---

National Organization for Victim Advocacy Conference

Extension's Hope and Recovery Team is excited to participate in the National Organization for Victim Advocacy Annual Training Event, taking place July 21–23, 2026, in Las Vegas. This national conference brings together advocates, victim service professionals, and community leaders from across the country to strengthen support for survivors and advance innovative, trauma-informed practices. Catch our presentation called, "Stronger Together: Breaking Silos and Integrating Domestic Violence Advocacy in Recovery Programs." Extension's Hope and Recovery Team will also be sponsoring the event's wellness space for anyone that needs to take a break or regroup during the event. 

As part of our commitment to supporting local professionals and community partners, the Hope Team is also sharing a special local discount code for attendees in our area. We look forward to connecting, learning, and collaborating with others who are passionate about building safer, healthier communities across Nevada and beyond.

Use code CommUNITY52 to get 10% off the conference registration.

REGISTER FOR THE NOVA CONFERENCE