New director takes the reins at China Spring

Former Western Nevada Regional Youth Center Director Jessica Stocking has taken the reins as the new director of China Spring Youth Camp.

"I have always had a passion for kids and find this work to be incredibly rewarding," Stocking said. "I am excited to bring my experience and dedication to the director position and continue to support and uplift the youth in our community."

Stocking spent most of her career at The Children’s Cabinet, where she developed programs and identified gaps in community services.

“With a rich background in youth services and program development, Jessica is set to bring her extensive experience and passion for helping at-risk adolescents to our community,” county officials said. “Her passion for working with children and her commitment to making a positive impact have been the driving forces behind her career.”

Stocking has been working at the camp since February and is the first director hired since the county took charge of the camp at the beginning of the year.

“I’m appreciative that she jumped in and started work,” Commissioner Sharla Hales said when Stocking was approved for the job in April. “What China Spring needs is fewer bumps in the road and more continuity. We are very lucky and blessed to have her willing to continue the work she’s already started. I feel this is the clear way forward.”

According to the county, Stocking’s annual salary will be $145,600.

She worked for the Lyon County Youth Center for four years, according to her resumé after spending two years with the Washoe County Public Defender’s Office and nine years with The Children’s Cabinet in Reno.

Stocking is a 2008 graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno, with a degree in human development and family studies and addiction treatment. She is a Spanish Springs High School graduate.

Stocking and husband Jeremy have three children, four dogs and a hairless cat.

China Spring and Aurora Pines deals with youthful offenders from 16 of Nevada’s 17 counties and has undergone several changes since the pandemic.

The layoffs of seven staffers were approved in the county budget this spring.