At the Clark County Veteran Assistance Center, support goes far beyond meeting immediate needs; it’s about restoring dignity, rebuilding stability, and creating a place where Veterans know they are not alone. What began as a mission to serve unhoused and low-income Veterans has steadily grown into something even more impactful: a developing hub for comprehensive Veteran resources.

Under the leadership of Vice President Sonja Wood and Outreach Coordinator Tami Brissler, a U.S. Air Force Veteran, the Center is built on a deeply personal commitment to service. Together, they help ensure that Veterans and their families have access to essentials like food, clothing, and critical resources, while also offering something less tangible, but just as important: connection and hope.

Everyday support may look simple: a hot meal, clean clothing, or a conversation, but each interaction carries a deeper purpose. For many Veterans, these small acts become the first step toward stability.

That impact is evident in stories like one shared by the team: a Veteran who arrived exhausted, unsure whether to stay, and hadn’t eaten in two days. Before leaving, he received food, fresh clothing, and connections to housing resources. A week later, he returned just to say thank you; a powerful reminder that compassion and consistency can change lives.

Recognizing that challenges facing Veterans are often complex and interconnected, the Center continues to expand its services. In addition to basic needs, the organization now provides access to emergency funds for those facing financial hardship. A mental health support group has also been introduced, creating a safe space for Veterans to connect and heal.

Partnerships play a key role in this growth. The Veteran department of WorkSource now utilizes office space at the Center weekly, increasing access to employment support. Beginning next week, the VHA Community Reintegration & Vocational Rehabilitation Services team will also be on-site every Friday, further strengthening the network of care available to local Veterans. Additional programs and collaborations are already in development.

This expansion reflects a clear vision: to create a centralized, accessible hub where Veterans can find the support they need - whether they are experiencing homelessness, financial hardship, or simply need guidance navigating available resources.

The work is not without its challenges. Many Veterans carry invisible burdens, including trauma, pride, and a reluctance to ask for help. Meeting those needs requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to listen without judgment, values that guide every interaction at the Center.

At its core, the mission remains both simple and powerful: to ensure that no Veteran in the community has to wonder where to turn for help. The Clark County Veteran Assistance Center stands as a place of hope, healing, and connection, where those who have served are met with the respect, care, and support they deserve.