Brenda Barnes

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Brenda Barnes

Assistant Manager
Clark County Social Service
Director
Southern Nevada Homelessness Continuum of Care

With an unwavering commitment to public service, Brenda Barnes has dedicated over two decades to enriching the lives of residents in Clark County, Nevada. Her extensive tenure within the Juvenile Justice, Family Services, and Social Service departments showcases a profound understanding of the intricacies involved in supporting vulnerable populations. Over the past 20 years, Brenda has been instrumental in shaping and refining child welfare programs. Her expertise extends to the meticulous design of initiatives, incorporating data collection and tracking mechanisms to drive program development, implementation, and continual enhancement.

In the realm of homeless and housing services, Brenda's impact has been transformative. Collaborating seamlessly with service providers and property developers, she has championed housing assistance programs that bridge the gap for those at risk of homelessness. Notably, her efforts have resulted in the conversion of vacant hotels into non-congregate shelters, providing families with a secure and private space, ultimately serving as a short-term solution while connecting them to vital resources.

Brenda's forward-thinking approach has expanded this initiative to encompass individuals without children, fostering inclusivity within her community. Notably, she played a pivotal role in establishing the first Housing Crisis Stabilization Navigation Center, a short-term non-congregate shelter addressing the unique needs of homeless individuals. As the current Director of the Southern Nevada Homelessness Continuum of Care, Brenda continues to spearhead quality improvement and enhanced practices, prioritizing the protection of children from abuse and neglect, and advocating for safe and stable housing initiatives for all.

In the realm of homelessness prevention, Brenda's leadership shines. Heading programs aimed at supporting the unhoused community and families at risk, she has successfully diverted over 700 families from the trauma of having their children removed due to inadequate shelter. Her approach goes beyond offering temporary refuge; it involves person-centered case management, providing not just a warm bed but a comprehensive roadmap to self-sufficiency. Brenda's invaluable experience equips her with the insights needed to communicate effectively with vulnerable populations. Her strategic mindset makes her an asset in improving outreach and mobilization efforts, particularly within historically undercounted populations. Brenda Barnes exemplifies a tireless advocate for community well-being, ensuring that no one is left behind.