Who We Are
To Empower, To Inspire, To Transform
Our Mission.
To Empower, To Inspire, To Transform
At the Nevada Youth Advocacy Group, our mission is a clarion call to action. We strive to empower the youth of Nevada with the tools, resources, and support they need to unlock their full potential. Inspired by the promise of tomorrow, we advocate for their rights, champion their causes, and stand firm in our belief that together, we can orchestrate a symphony of change. By nurturing a positive, inclusive, and dynamic environment, we aim to inspire young minds to dream big, act with purpose, and create meaningful impact.
Join us. Be part of a transformative journey. Together, we're not just changing lives; we're redefining the future.
Our Team.
Behind every great vision is a team that makes it all possible.
At the Nevada Youth Advocacy Group, our strength lies in the diversity, passion, and expertise of our team. From seasoned advocates to inspiring mentors, each member brings a unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives to our collective table. Together, we are educators, innovators, activists, and dreamers - united by a common goal to empower the youth of Nevada.
Our team is the heartbeat of our organization, working tirelessly behind the scenes to advocate for change, provide support, and drive our mission forward. It's their dedication that transforms our vision into reality, their wisdom that guides our strategies, and their compassion that touches the lives of young people across Nevada.
As you explore this section, you'll get to know the faces and stories of those who make the Nevada Youth Advocacy Group a beacon of hope and a force for change. Join us in celebrating the individuals who dedicate their lives to empowering our youth and shaping a brighter future for all.
Linda Ward-Smith
Founder
Linda Ward-Smith, Founder of Nevada Youth Advocacy Group, brings over 25 years of nursing experience and a deep commitment to veterans and youth athletes alike. Having worked closely with Nevada youth football teams for nearly 15 years, Linda’s compassion and dedication were profoundly shaped by firsthand observations of the mental health challenges young athletes faced during the Pandemic. Driven by a passion to support and advocate for their well-being, she established the Nevada Youth Advocacy Group to provide vital resources and promote mental health awareness, ensuring the resilience and success of Nevada’s youth athletes both on and off the field.
Earl Smith
Co-Founder
Earl Smith, Co-Founder of Nevada Youth Advocacy Group, brings over two decades of heartfelt dedication to youth through his extensive coaching experience, including leading his son's little league football team. His passion for coaching has not only shaped young athletes on the field but has also left a lasting positive impact on their lives well into adulthood. As a compassionate community advocate, Earl is deeply committed to championing the rights of youth and ensuring that those who cannot always speak for themselves have a strong, supportive voice. His unwavering dedication embodies the mission of the Nevada Youth Advocacy Group to nurture and protect the well-being and mental health of young athletes throughout the community.
Mariclar Osorio
Board Member
Mariclar Osorio is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 32 years of diverse nursing experience spanning hospital, outpatient, and community settings. Her comprehensive background includes critical care, rehabilitation, home health, public health nursing, and case management, reflecting a deep commitment to holistic patient care. As a passionate patient advocate and valued member of the Nevada Youth Advocacy Group, Mariclar tirelessly supports youth athletes and promotes mental health awareness within the community, bringing her expertise and empathy to every aspect of her work.
Margarette "Maggie" Suprien
Board Member
Marguarette "Maggie" Suprien, a distinguished Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing, plays a pivotal role at Nevada Youth Advocacy Group in Las Vegas. With a profound commitment to emotional wellness, Maggie provides compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to support youth athletes and their families. Her expertise fosters resilience, stability, and self-advocacy, empowering young individuals to overcome challenges and thrive both on and off the field. Through her dedicated leadership and unwavering passion, Maggie advances the mission of Nevada Youth Advocacy Group, nurturing the personal development and mental health of Nevada’s youth with professionalism and heartfelt care.
Ivy Craig
Board Member
Ivy Craig, esteemed Board Member of the Nevada Youth Advocacy Group, is a devoted community leader with over 30 years of unwavering commitment to advocacy and service. Her deep knowledge and passion for protecting the rights of others have made her an invaluable asset to our mission of supporting youth athletes and mental health. Ivy’s dedication to fostering a stronger, more inclusive community exemplifies the spirit of our organization, inspiring us all to work tirelessly in defense of the rights and well-being of Nevada’s young people.
Sarah Yao
Treasurer & Board Member
Sarah Yao serves as Treasurer and Board Member of the Nevada Youth Advocacy Group, bringing a wealth of expertise as a compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with extensive nursing experience and a strong background in case management. Her dedication to holistic patient care underscores her role as a passionate patient advocate, tirelessly supporting youth athletes and championing mental health awareness within the community. Through her leadership and commitment, Sarah plays a vital role in advancing the mission of the Nevada Youth Advocacy Group to nurture both the physical and mental well-being of young individuals.
