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US Vets says March 4 Stand Down will aim for 'same-day outcomes' to help veterans avoid homelessness
Summary
US Vets Las Vegas briefed the commission on its March 4 Veterans Stand Down at World Market Center, describing same-day housing outcomes, volunteer needs, and a fundraising-dependent 'yes fund' used for urgent barriers like utility payments.
Michelle Johnston, director of behavioral health for US Vets Las Vegas, told the North Las Vegas Veterans Community Commission that the nonprofit will hold its annual Veterans Stand Down on Wednesday, March 4 at the World Market Center from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. "Stand Down is a yes day," Johnston said, adding the organization's focus is to produce same-day outcomes for veterans rather than telling them to return later for services.
Johnston described US Vets' local capacity—"almost 400 beds" across Southern Nevada ranging from bridge to permanent supportive housing—and reviewed last year's Stand Down results: 632 veterans served, 29 housed the same day and four households prevented from eviction. She said 213 service providers and 205 volunteers participated, and urged attendees to sign up to volunteer for setup (Tuesday) and event shifts (Wednesday).
Johnston noted US Vets does not receive federal funding for the Stand Down and relies on fundraising and sponsorships for the event and the "yes fund," which pays for urgent needs not covered by traditional programs. "An example would be a water bill we paid that day out of our yes fund," she said. Johnston provided flyers and a preregistration option intended to shorten wait times for veterans who sign up in advance.
