Dayton, Nevada, United States
Together We Can Make a Difference
We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit Public Charity organziation, registered in NV. Tax ID 93-4931502
Our Purpose
Our Purpose
The purpose of The Comfort House is to serve as both an emergency shelter for those outside of our county and a permanent foster home for Lyon County kids, accommodating up to 8 school-aged children per home in Rural NV. Recognizing the critical gap in services, particularly in Lyon County and its surrounding rural areas including Fallon, Elko, Churchill, Storey and beyond.
With approximately 400 children in foster care in Rural Nevada, as reported by DCFS on 12/30/23, the demand for safe and nurturing homes continues to rise each day. The absence of small group foster care homes in the region underscores the urgent need for supportive environments for homeless youth.
At The Comfort House, we differentiate ourselves by offering more than just a place to sleep for displaced children. Drawing on our collective expertise in public education, school counseling, mental health therapy, and diverse life experiences, we strive to provide a home environment rich in positive reinforcement, learning opportunities, life enrichment, and love. Through our trauma-informed approach to fostering youth, our goal is to empower every child in our care to recognize their capabilities, resilience, and the multitude of opportunities available to them for a brighter future.
Our History
Founded in 2023, The Comfort House hopes to serve displaced children in Rural Nevada for years to come. Our organization was established to address the growing need to assist school aged children facing temporary removal from their families and homes through no fault of their own.
Our Programs
We have designed a trauma informed program of day to day living for the youth in our care. Every child at The Comfort House has an individual life plan according to their unique needs. Our goal is to empower children to become confident, resilient, and to know that they matter to our schools and to our community!
About The Comfort House
Our Mission and Vision
At The Comfort House, our mission is to enhance the well-being of children in foster care by offering a nurturing, responsible, loving, safe, and secure home environment. We are dedicated to breaking the cycle of neglect, abuse, and addiction through a trauma-informed approach to daily living, providing these children with the opportunity for a brighter future.
While we hold all children in high regard, our primary focus is on school-aged children ranging from 5 to 18 years old. By prioritizing the needs of these vulnerable youth, we aim to create a supportive and empowering space where they can heal, grow, and thrive, ultimately setting the stage for a positive trajectory in their lives.
Our vision at The Comfort House is to implement a trauma-informed program that shapes the day-to-day experiences of the youth under our care. Each child within our walls is equipped with a personalized life plan tailored to address their distinct needs and circumstances.
Our ultimate objective is to inspire and empower children to cultivate confidence, resilience, and a profound sense of belonging. We strive to instill in them the unwavering belief that they are valued members of our schools and community, fostering a supportive environment where they can flourish and thrive.
Our Core Values
Our organization is built on a foundation of compassion, integrity, and accountability. We want to do what's right every time and we believe in treating everyone with dignity and respect. We believe in equality, creativity, and quality of life and we are committed to using our resources in the most effective and efficient way possible to care for the children in need of our services.
Who We Are
Gina Armstrong, President
Amber Taylor, Vice President
Amber Taylor, Vice President
Gina is a Professional School Counselor in the Lyon County School District with a Post-Graduate Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy and is a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for Lyon county. Since her move to Nevada in 2012, Gina has dedicated her career to serving in non-profits and public education.
Recognizing a critical gap in services for displaced children in Lyon County and surrounding rural areas, Gina took proactive steps to address this issue. She founded the Comfort House, a sanctuary that aims to offer not just shelter but a genuine home environment for children in need.
Through her work with families in Lyon County, Gina identified the pressing necessity for safe placements for children removed from abusive or neglectful homes. Despite this urgent need, there are limited options available for these vulnerable children in the community.
Gina's vision and initiative in establishing the Comfort House highlight her unwavering commitment to providing a secure and nurturing environment for displaced children. Her efforts underscore the importance of creating alternative placements for children facing adversity in Lyon County and beyond.
Amber Taylor, Vice President
Amber Taylor, Vice President
Amber Taylor, Vice President
Amber, the principal of Silver Stage High School, brings over 20 years of experience as an educator to her role. Having raised her family in Fernley, NV, and with roots in Battle Mountain, Amber possesses a deep understanding of the community she serves.
Drawing from her frontline experience, Amber recognized the pressing need to support Lyon County children who require assistance and deserve a stable and secure living environment.
With firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by local youth, Amber is dedicated to ensuring that every child in Lyon County has access to a safe and nurturing home.
Amber's commitment to the well-being of Lyon County children underscores her passion for creating positive and supportive environments where young individuals can thrive. Her leadership at Silver Stage High School projects her unwavering dedication to advocating for the needs of students in the community.
Mikayla Swoverland, Treasurer and Secretary
Mikayla Swoverland, Treasurer and Secretary
Mikayla Swoverland, Treasurer and Secretary
Mikayla, a graduate of Silver Stage schools, is currently working towards her Bachelor's degree while bringing a diverse skill set encompassing basic accounting, administration, and project management.
As a devoted mother of one, Mikayla's personal experiences have shaped her strong commitment to serving the community she holds dear.
Passionate about the mission of the organization, Mikayla is eager to contribute to supporting the children within the community. Her dedication to The Comfort House is evident in her vision for its growth and sustainability.
Upon the completion of her degree, Mikayla plans to play an instrumental role in expanding The Comfort House's impact and ensuring its long-term success.
Mikayla's blend of academic pursuit, professional skills, and personal values positions her as a valuable asset to the organization, poised to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children in need within the community.
Russel Davies, Board Member
Mikayla Swoverland, Treasurer and Secretary
Mikayla Swoverland, Treasurer and Secretary
Russel, a dedicated single father of two, currently serves as an Infrastructure and IT Department manager, leveraging his extensive business experience and leadership skills. With a focus on negotiation, project management, IT expertise, and fostering long-lasting relationships, Russel has honed a versatile skill set over the years.
As a Veteran drawing upon his experience in the US Army, Russel channels his resilience and unwavering determination into his altruistic leadership approach. His "never give up" attitude, coupled with a deep commitment to supporting others, shapes his leadership style and drives his passion for making a positive impact in the community.
Russel's unique blend of skills, values, and perspective on raising resilient children through a trauma-informed lens positions him as a valuable asset to The Comfort House mission. His dedication to serving vulnerable children aligns seamlessly with the organization's goals, making him an invaluable contributor to ensuring the well-being and success of those in need
Tiny Donation Campaign
We thank our tiny donors for filling 6127 jars so far!
Fill a jar for $2, fill a sheet for $96, or anything in between! Please consider giving a $2 donation and sharing the link with friends and family on your social media to fill out an entire page!
Financial Impacts
Save Lyon County Foster Kids
Research reports that Nevada spends an average of $40,000 per year and up to $72,000 per year for each homeless person in Washoe and Rural NV. If we can reach our foster youth, ages 5 to 18, before they age out of foster care without any life skills, direction or hope, then we can make a huge difference
1. **Immediate Costs**:
- Medical expenses: Unaddressed health issues may lead to increased medical costs.
- Emergency interventions: Incidents requiring emergency services or law enforcement involvement.
2. **Long-term Costs**:
- Mental health services: Unmet emotional needs may result in long-term mental health challenges, necessitating ongoing therapy or treatment.
- Educational support: Lack of proper care may hinder educational attainment, leading to potential long-term economic impacts.
- Social services: Increased reliance on social welfare programs and support services.
- Legal costs: Involvement in the criminal justice system due to unaddressed behavioral issues or lack of support.
- Loss of productivity: Potential loss of future economic contribution due to diminished opportunities resulting from inadequate care.
- Homelessness: Higher risk of homelessness among former foster youth, leading to additional social and economic burdens.
3. **Quality of Life Considerations**:
- Emotional toll: Poor care can have profound emotional impacts on youth, affecting their overall well-being and quality of life.
- Interpersonal relationships: Difficulty forming healthy relationships due to unresolved trauma or lack of supportive environments.
4. **Community Impact**:
- Strain on social services: Increased demand on public resources and community support systems.
- Crime and safety: Unaddressed behavioral issues may contribute to community safety concerns and strain on law enforcement resources.
Additionally, it's essential to consider the ethical and moral imperatives of ensuring the well-being of vulnerable youth, beyond purely financial considerations.
Support The Comfort House Mission
Donate Now
Your contribution goes directly to furnishing OUR NEW LOCATION! Due to the generosity of an Angel Donor The Comfort House first location has been purchased outright. We need beds and bedding, new mattresses, dressers, desks, , new pillows, curtains, blinds, toys, and anything that makes a bedroom cozy and inviting! Ages 5 to 18.
Volunteer With Us
Join our team of dedicated volunteers and make a difference in your community. Whether it's joining one of our committees, organizing events, or providing support, we need your help.
Spread the Word
Help us raise awareness about our cause by sharing our mission with your friends and family. Follow us on social media and invite others to join our community.
Become a Partner
Collaborate with us to make a greater impact. We welcome partnerships with businesses, organizations, and individuals who share our values and goals.
Attend Our Events
Join us for our upcoming events and help us raise funds and awareness for our cause. From charity walks to benefit concerts, there's something for everyone.
Join Our Mailing List
Stay up-to-date on our latest news, events, and initiatives by joining our mailing list. Sign up today and never miss an opportunity to support our mission.
Share, Give, Repeat
Ways You Can Help
Those of us who live and work in Northern Nevada know that if we want something to come to Lyon County, we have to make it happen ourselves. Please help us save Lyon County foster kids and donate to The Comfort House.
The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.
Pablo Picasso
