Las Vegas – On Saturday, U.S.VETS Las Vegas organized a Veterans Day celebration that combined a car show, live music, games, food and a variety of resources for veterans living in the valley. The event, now in its fourth year, was designed to honor those who have served and to provide practical assistance to veterans facing challenges such as homelessness, mental‑health struggles and unemployment.
Veterans share personal recovery stories
Among the attendees was Army veteran OsaBemi‑Ye Tyehimba, who served 12 years before returning home with hidden mental‑health issues. Tyehimba recounted a difficult 2024 in which he discovered severe depression and attempted suicide. “I felt like I was pretending for most of my life,” he said. “U.S.VETS helped me see that I could be honest about my struggles and focus on getting better.” He added that the organization is now helping him secure stable housing within the next five weeks.
Volunteer coordinator emphasizes mission
Jimmy DePew, a 20‑year Air Force Reserve veteran and volunteer activity coordinator for U.S.VETS Las Vegas, explained that his calling emerged after his own service. “Preventing veteran homelessness is something very near and dear to me,” DePew said. He described how the event grew from a modest gathering with a band to a large‑scale celebration featuring tacos from 911 Tacos, a VFW Combat‑Tested video‑gaming tent, the Irreverent Warriors, Team RWB and the Nevada Department of Veteran Services.
DePew believes the gathering does more than provide entertainment; it helps veterans “re‑humanize” and reconnect with the broader community. “It’s a big celebration that lets veterans engage with each other and feel like a person again,” he added.
Community support and donations keep the program alive
While U.S.VETS receives occasional grants, DePew stressed that donations from local residents are the lifeblood of the organization. “We are grateful for the support we see here in the community,” he said, noting that contributions enable the group to continue offering housing assistance, mental‑health counseling and job‑placement services.
DePew also encouraged neighbors to simply check in on veterans they know. “It’s OK to not be OK. A phone call from someone who cares can bring a veteran back into the light and guide them toward help,” he said.
How to help
U.S.VETS provides several ways for the public to contribute, including monetary donations, volunteering and spreading awareness of available resources. Their website lists current needs and offers a direct link for online giving.
Veterans in need of assistance can also access a curated list of local resources through the organization’s online portal.
Looking ahead
Building on the success of this year’s event, U.S.VETS plans to expand its outreach in 2027, aiming to reach more veterans across Clark County with additional housing programs and mental‑health workshops. The organization hopes that continued community involvement will further reduce veteran homelessness and improve overall well‑being for those who have served.
Original reporting: KTNV 13 Action News Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.
