Nevada Veterans: Support, Recognition, and Resources Available Throughout the State
Nevada’s veteran community has access to a wide range of support systems, from charitable raffles and holiday meals to recognition programs and vital assistance services. Recent announcements highlight opportunities for both veterans and those seeking to give back to those who served.
Holiday Cheer and Critical Support
The Holidays for Heroes Raffle is currently underway, offering a grand prize of $5,000 and seven additional prizes ranging from $500 to $1,500. With only 500 tickets available, the raffle aims to provide critical care to veterans and their families, including free lodging, meals, transportation, and post-operative personal care. The drawing will be held on December 13th from 4-6 p.m. at the Veterans Guest House, located at 880 Locust St. in Reno, and will feature refreshments. More information can be found at https://www.veteransguesthouse.org.
Adding to the holiday spirit, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1002 will host a free Christmas dinner on December 20th, courtesy of the Nobody Forever Motorcycle Club. The event promises food, raffle prizes, and holiday cheer, and attendees are welcome to dine in or take meals to go. Those with questions can reach out at 775-294-6193.
Recognizing Veteran Contributions and Excellence
The Nevada Department of Veterans Services is actively seeking nominations for three prestigious awards: the Veteran of the Month, Veteran Supporter of the Month, and Youth Serving Veterans Award. These statewide recognitions honor individuals who demonstrate exceptional volunteerism and dedication to improving the lives of Nevada veterans and their families. Details on the nomination process can be found at https://veterans.nv.gov.
In addition, nominations are open for the Women Veteran of the Year Award, recognizing significant contributions and outstanding service in support of women veterans, women in the military, and women in the community. Nominations must be submitted by January 1st for consideration at the annual Women Veterans Conference in March. Further information is available at https://veterans.nv.gov/women-veteran-of-the-year-award.
Community and Support Initiatives
Several organizations are actively working to support veterans and their families in Northern Nevada. The Nevada Veterans Memorial Plaza will host its annual benefit dinner, “An Evening to Honor Our Heroes,” on January 29th at 5:30 p.m. at the Nugget Casino Resort in Sparks, with proceeds benefiting the Plaza at the Sparks Marina. Information and tickets can be found at https://nevadaveteransmemorial.ejoinme.org/heroesinhistory.
For those seeking employment, Patriots to Education highlights immediate openings in numerous Nevada school districts, providing links to vacancies, application processes, and direct contacts for partner districts at https://patriotstoeducation-nv.org.
Volunteer Opportunities and Assistance Programs
Opportunities to volunteer are also plentiful. The Senior Companion Program seeks individuals aged 55 and older to provide basic social support to seniors over 60, offering services like transportation, errands, and companionship. Qualifying volunteers may receive a stipend and transportation reimbursement. Interested individuals can contact Polly at [email protected].
Liberty Dogs is also seeking dedicated volunteers to help raise and socialize future service dogs for veterans. Those interested can call 775-499-0000 ext. 200, email [email protected], or visit https://LibertyDogs.org.
The Nevada Department of Veterans Services is also offering a program on dementia, exploring its history, types, signs, and next steps for those concerned about themselves or loved ones. Registration is available at lp.constantcontactpages.com.
Finally, a range of assistance programs are available, including the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 (press 1), online at VeteransCrisisLine.net, or via text at 838255. The More to Life adult day health center can be reached at 775-358-1988 or adultdaycarereno.com, and the Northern Nevada Wheelchair Program can be contacted at 760-500-0857 or [email protected]. Individuals with information about military events can submit details to [email protected].
