The Loop - Nevada (November_December 2024)

THE LOOP A COLLECTION OF STORIES FROM AROUND NEVADA

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

ISSUE 43

VOLUME 4

Season’s Greetings from WestCare Nevada!

As the year draws to a close, we are filled with gratitude and pride for the incredible moments and milestones we’ve shared with our community.

November and December have been months to remember, brimming with generosity, joy, and the celebration of recovery and resilience.

Our journey began at the City of Las Vegas Ward 6 “Cowboy Christmas” Resource Fair and Car Show, where the spirit of the holidays shone brightly. This festive event brought together families, resources, and classic cars, making it a day of support and connection for our community. WestCare Nevada had a resource table at the event and made some new connections in the NW part of the Vegas Valley.

The holiday cheer continued at the Naughty or Nice Holiday Party and Recovery Community Event at Foundation for Recovery. Individuals in recovery and their loved ones came together to celebrate the season in a space filled with hope, warmth, and shared stories of triumph.

We were honored to recognize some of our own with the Employee CORE Award for Organization, celebrating exceptional commitment to our mission and the individuals we serve, whose dedication inspires us all to continue our work with compassion and purpose.

We were privileged to welcome Mr. Darren Waller, retired NFL player and advocate, for a tour of our Women and Children’s Campus. His visit highlighted the critical work being done to empower families and reminded us of the strength in recovery and community support. Darren’s commitment to making a difference didn’t end there, as the Darren Waller fou

Foundation’s “Beyond the Wall” Fundraiser Gala brought together changemakers and raised vital support for individuals in need of treatment services. Our Director of the Women and Children’s Campus, Ms. Irma Magrdichian, shared at the event which also announced a partnership between WestCare Nevada and the Darren Waller Foundation. A portion of what was raised will be used to pay for 30 days of residential for women at WCC. Finally, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the Las Vegas Metro Police Department for their generous backpack donation, ensuring that those in our care have the supplies they need to succeed. Acts of kindness like this remind us that it truly takes a village to uplift those in need.

As we reflect on these meaningful moments, we are reminded that none of this would be possible without the unwavering support of our partners, donors, and staff. Together, we continue to make a lasting impact while Uplifting the Human Spirit, one life, one family, and one community at a time.

Wishing you all a joyous holiday season and a New Year filled with hope and possibility!

Warm regards,

Leo Magrdichian, LCSW, LCADC, Vice President

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WestCare Partners with Former NFL Star, Darren Waller, for Fifth Annual Beyond the Wall Fundraiser

By Andrew Moran, Development Director On Wednesday, December 11, 2024, the Dragon Ridge Country Club in Las Vegas buzzed with excitement as WestCare Nevada joined forces with former NFL tight end, Darren Waller, for the Fifth Annual Beyond the Wall fundraiser.

This prestigious event supports youth addiction recovery initiatives through the Darren Waller Foundation’s community outreach programs. But, the Beyond the Wall fundraiser is not only an event; it’s a lifeline for young individuals battling substance use disorders.

Darren Waller, known for his remarkable career with the Baltimore Ravens, the Las Vegas Raiders, and the New York Giants, has made it his mission to give back to the community. Since its inception in 2020, the Darren Waller Foundation has awarded nearly $1 million in grants, assisting over 100 individuals in their journeys toward recovery. This year, WestCare Nevada’s Women and Children's Campus (WCC) is proud to be the recipient, focusing on support for women and children seeking help through recovery programs.

Guests at the event enjoyed exclusive access to Darren and celebrated Raiders legends, including Rod Martin, James Harris, Roy Hart, and former NFL quarterback Jay Schroeder, as well as a private performance from Billboardcharting country singer, Dave McElroy! The evening commenced with a delightful multicourse dinner, setting the stage for an inspiring live auction featuring unique experiences and rare memorabilia. Funds raised during the auction will directly benefit the Against the Wall recovery grants, which are dedicated to aiding Las Vegas residents aged 18 to 26 in overcoming substance use challenges. Waller’s commitment to this cause has made a significant impact on the community. The grants facilitate inpatient and outpatient recovery treatment and offer sober living housing for up to five months, ensuring that young individuals have the support they need during critical times. WestCare's own Director of Residential Services for the WCC, Irma Magrdichian, pulled on the attendees' heartstrings as she gave her story, as well as the history of WestCare and its amazing 50 years in the community. The entire crowd hung on to her every word as tears began to stream and the room was filled with hope and love.

As we reflect on the success of the Beyond the Wall fundraiser, we’re reminded of the power of community and collaboration. WestCare is honored to be part of this initiative, working alongside the Darren Waller Foundation to create a brighter future for those in need. Together, we can continue to make strides in the fight against addiction and support the recovery journeys of many.

For more information on the Darren Waller Foundation, its partnership with WestCare, and how you can contribute, please visit: darrenwaller.org

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Uplifting the Human Spirit

NFL Great, Darren Waller, Tours Women and Children's Campus in Las Vegas: A Commitment to Empowerment and Uplifting the Human Spirit

By Andrew Moran, Development Director and Irma Magrdichian, Director of Residential Services In a heartwarming display of support and community engagement, NFL great Darren Waller, alongside Prolanthropy, visited the Women and Children’s Campus (WCC) in Las Vegas. This tour highlighted Darren’s dedication to uplifting those in need and promoting positive change within the local community. Waller, renowned for his impressive career in the NFL, took the time to meet with the women and children residing at the campus, listening to their stories and sharing words of encouragement. He spoke of his story and struggles with addiction and how he recently celebrated seven years of sobriety. He provided words of wisdom, hope and inspiration to the ladies in treatment and left gifts for everyone as a token of appreciation for the work put into their individualized recovery goals. His genuine compassion resonated throughout the facility as he engaged with the families, offering hope and inspiration to those navigating challenging circumstances.

Prolanthropy, the organization that represents Darren, has been instrumental in coordinating initiatives that foster community support and philanthropy. Their website states: “Prolanthropy exists to disrupt the archaic narrative that charitable giving must be driven by guilt and to end for those receiving aid from charities. We do that by creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience where our client donors and recipients feel like rock stars and become fanatical followers of our managed foundations.” Their collaboration with Darren for this tour exemplifies a shared vision of empowerment and recovery, particularly for vulnerable populations.

During the visit, Darren explored various programs offered at the campus, which focu

focuses on providing resources and support for women and children facing adversity. Featuring educational workshops, transitional housing, and counseling services, the WCC plays a crucial role in helping families rebuild their lives and achieve stability.

Darren embraced the Christmas spirit that filled the facility as he walked through the hallways adding to the joy felt by the beautifully decorated environment and the warmth of women seeking change. His presence reminded us of the importance of community involvement and his commitment to making a difference was clear. The event not only raised awareness about the challenges faced by women and children in need, but also emphasized the significance of compassion and support in fostering resilience. As the tour concluded, Darren expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to connect with the center's residents and pledged to continue advocating for their needs.

This visit is a testament to the impact that individuals can have when they leverage their platform for good. We are excited for the opportunity to assist young women through his foundation. We look forward to providing clinical services in our therapeutic environment where women can thrive in achieving the skills necessary to maintain sobriety. The gratitude expressed by the ladies continues to be a motivating factor for the clients we serve. Darren Waller's dedication to philanthropy and community service is a shining example of how one person's commitment can lead to positive transformations in the lives of many.

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Uplifting the Human Spirit

Naughty or Nice Holiday Party with Foundation for Recovery

Cowboy Christmas with the Las Vegas City Council and Councilwoman Nancy Brune

We participated in Cowboy Christmas at Floyd Lamb Park, which included a classic car show, arts and crafts fair, a visit from Santa, and more! The Las Vegas City Council, including Councilwoman Nancy Brune representing Ward 6, sponsored this free and fun holiday event. Our Vice President, Leo Magrdichian, brought his 1962 Cadillac (last year's “Best of Show Winner”) to the car show. This was another opportunity to share our mission with our neighbors and new friends!

The Foundation for Recovery's 3rd annual Naughty or Nice Holiday Party was a joyful celebration of recovery and community! With our green and Grinch-themed outfits and decor, we brought our festive fun to add to everyone else. This event was a heartwarming reminder of the power of support and progress. Laughter, camaraderie, and holiday cheer filled the air, making it a night full of connection and unforgettable memories as we head into the new year!

Thank you to LVMPD for their generous donation of backpacks for the women and children we serve!

Congrats to CORE Award Recipient, Victoria Johnson, for her talents and skills in Organization.

Continue the journey online!

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Follow WestCare Nevada on social media to learn more about our team and the work we're doing in our local community! #WestCareNevada

WestCare Nevada

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@westcarenevada

@westcarenevada