Message from the Director – February 2021

To my fellow veterans, families, and supporters:

Happy February!  Thanks to the support of individuals and agencies across Nevada, we continue to quickly roll-out the COVID-19 vaccine at both the Southern and Northern Nevada State Veterans Homes.  We are now developing a plan to get our volunteers vaccinated so we can improve the quality of life for our veterans and spouses living at our homes.

We’ve made tremendous progress providing residents, as well as team members at both homes, with the first and second dose of vaccine in order to provide the maximum protection against the novel coronavirus.  We’re proud to announce that we held two vaccine clinics for residents and staff at both homes last month. A third clinic is scheduled for February for both homes.

While one case of coronavirus is one too many, we thankfully are seeing a decrease in the number of positive COVID-19 cases at both homes. Although this means there is light at the end of the tunnel, we remain vigilant in maintaining federal and state protocols to prevent new infections. Protecting our most vulnerable populations remains a top priority.

The month of January marked other successes, including the very informative January 13^th Discharge Upgrade webinar, held with support of Ms. Starlyn Lara of Nation’s Finest.  More than 108 participants attended this great event.  The webinar was part of our “In the Know” series which answers the most common questions asked of us by veterans regarding their earned benefits.  If you missed this event, you may view it here.

Additionally, our 2021 Nevada Veterans Legislative Summit, held in partnership with the United Veterans Legislative Council, was also well attended. The event was designed to provide information on the legislative priorities identified by veterans that were presented to lawmakers for their consideration during the upcoming 81^st Session of the Nevada Legislature.  We will keep you posted in upcoming newsletters about proposed legislation as we learn of it.

You will be hearing more about Veterans and Military Day at the Legislature (VAMDAL), which is slated this year for Wednesday, March 17^th. By law, VAMDAL occurs on the third Wednesday in March when the Nevada legislature is in session. The day is set aside to focus on veterans, military members, and their families to raise awareness and show appreciation for the sacrifice and service of these men, women, and their families.  With physical distancing restrictions, VAMDAL will likely look very different this year!

There is also one more upcoming event to place on your calendar. The 2021 Virtual Women Veterans Conference is set for Wednesday, March 3^rd from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The event’s featured speaker is Shoshana Johnson. She is a U.S. Army veteran and author of I’m Still Standing From Captive U.S. Soldier to Free Citizen – My Journey Home. Other topics featured will touch on personal courage during challenging times, resilience, health, wellness, and VA healthcare. To register, receive the Zoom link to participate, along with instructions on how to use Zoom technology, go here.

As you can see, we are in an exciting place as we begin to gain an upper hand on the pandemic, and as we continue to roll out new events that will benefit the veteran and military communities.  I hope to see you soon at one of our upcoming events.  Stay safe-stay connected!

Respectfully,

Kat