WHEREAS, the State of Nevada recognizes the importance of giving children permanent, safe, and loving families through adoption; and

WHEREAS, the 2023 theme of Adoption Awareness Month is "Empowering Youth: Finding Points of Connection"; and

WHEREAS, this year’s theme emphasizes the importance of providing opportunities and services that connect youth to their backgrounds and support meaningful permanent relationships; and

WHEREAS, in Nevada's 2023 fiscal year, 660 adoptions were finalized statewide, providing children with loving adult connections which are critical to lifelong development; and

WHEREAS, Nevada currently has 532 children waiting for permanent families; and

WHEREAS, this effort, along with similar celebrations in all 50 states, will offer children the chance to live with stable and loving families and encourage other dedicated individuals to make a powerful difference in the lives of a child through foster care adoption; and

WHEREAS, the State of Nevada honors and supports those who open their hearts and their homes to provide children with stable and loving home and family through adoption;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOE LOMBARDO, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NEVADA, do hereby proclaim the month of November 2023 as

ADOPTION AWARENESS MONTH IN NEVADA