LGBTQ+ Veteran Program Update

By Christopher Miannay VSO (LGBTQ+ Program)   

The LGBTQ+ program had a busy month of targeted outreach initiatives, focusing on the important benefits for veterans who identify as gender and sexually diverse, as well as addressing pertinent health issues. Our program has established strong connections with all LGBTQ+ Peer Support Specialists within the VA, as well as their LGBTQ+ Veteran Care coordinators. We are excited to welcome Michelle Keplar as Reno's newest LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator, who is bringing new initiatives to support LGBTQ veterans at the VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System.  

Additionally, our program presented at the 2024 NV Advocacy Conference in Reno, discussing the importance of supporting diverse veterans and highlighting our efforts to assist unique population veterans. We also participated in Our Center in Reno's anniversary celebration to connect with LGBTQ+ veterans and community partners, expanding our outreach efforts. In Laughlin, we provided personalized assistance to veterans with benefit claims and healthcare navigation within the VA. 

Our LGBTQ+ Program is thrilled to spearhead positive change and establish a new gold standard for gender and sexually diverse veterans. We aim to be a frontrunner in providing exceptional support to LGBTQ+ veterans within the industry. 

Save the Date: The Rocky Horror Picture Show  

Save the Date: The Rocky Horror Picture Show event will take place on June 15th at 5:00pm at The Center in Las Vegas, in collaboration with Frankies Favorite Obsession. This free event will feature a live shadow cast performance. Our partners are non-profits dedicated to celebrating the LGBTQ community, especially our veterans. RSVP at thecenter.org/form/the-rocky-horror-picture-show or contact Christopher Miannay at miannayc@veterans.nv.gov for more information. The location of the event will be: 401 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89101