THE LOOP
A COLLECTION OF STORIES FROM AROUND NEVADA
ISSUE 46 // SUMMER 2025
By Andrew Moran, Development Director
heartwarming demonstration of community support and collaboration, the team has been making waves with their tours at the Women and Village, Residential Facility, and Transitional Housing. As we the completion of the first phase of 26 one, two, and three-bedroom set to be finished by November, excitement is palpable. This landmark achievement will allow families to transition into supportive living arrangements, them to reunify with their children while receiving the vital assistance they
vision extends beyond mere treatment and a roof over your head; it commitment to creating a nurturing environment. With plans for four playgrounds, the organization is dedicated to ensuring that children experience and mindfulness during their recovery. “We want this to be a fun day an institution,” emphasizes a Donor. Recognizing the intense stress that can impose on families, especially following treatment, WestCare is its mission to provide a supportive atmosphere during these vulnerable
received tremendous backing from key figures in the state, highlighting importance of community partnerships. Recently, WestCare had the honor of tours for influential leaders, including Christine Hess, CFO of the Nevada Division, and Steve Aichroth, Division Leader. Their instrumental support WestCare secure funding for the ambitious 84-apartment village through Means Nevada and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) commitment from the state government, extending to Governor Lombardo has unwavering. With Nevada ranking sixth in the nation for excessively costhomeowners, the Governor has made housing, education, and supportive top priority. His championing of the Nevada Housing and Attainability Act underscores a strategic commitment to affordable housing, paving the way initiatives that directly benefit families in need.
Attorney General Aaron Ford also made a significant impact during his visit, celebrating Nevada’s success in securing over $1.2 billion in opioid settlement funds—the highest per-capita total in the country. “We deserve better,” he stated, expressing his determination to hold accountable those responsible for the crisis. Ford’s commitment to WestCare reflects a broader desire to support organizations that are on the front lines, addressing the needs of those affected by the epidemic. In a spirited meeting with newly elected Mayor Shelley Berkley—a staunch WestCare advocate for five decades— it was revealed that a former Shelter and Services Committee is being formed, and WestCare is invited to join. Mayor Berkley’s ongoing support adds another layer of strength to the initiatives being developed.
Lastly, Nevada State Treasurer Zach Conine shared unique ideas for collaboration, advocating for a straightforward solution to homelessness: “More homes, more supportive services.” This simple yet powerful message resonates with WestCare’s mission, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive support to uplift the community.
Throughout these meetings with prominent leaders, a recurring theme emerged: WestCare’s continuous need for funding to protect and serve the most vulnerable populations— those who are underserved and underinsured. “At our organization, we don’t pick sides, We always want to play fair in the sandbox because together, we can achieve so much more than we can alone.”
As WestCare forges ahead, the collaborative spirit and unwavering commitment from community leaders serve as a beacon of hope for families in need. The impending completion of the Women and Children’s Village is not just a milestone; it’s a testament to what can be accomplished when compassion, dedication, and community come together. this dream has been coming to fruition for many decades, and we are so proud to be there for a first of its kind. The future is bright for those who will call WestCare home, and the journey has only just begun.
Shining all
As summer into action community,
In June, we second annual individuals recipients empowerment, We also Networking hosted by invaluable focusedorganizations.
We capped Harris Springs talents, highlighting powerofcelebrating
“It All Began At Harris Springs Ranch”: A WestCare Nevada
By Dave P., WestCare Nevada Alumni
After my father returned from his final tour in Vietnam, my parents divorced. My mother worked two jobs to support us. During that time, I made a conscious decision to rebel against societal norms. I began drinking and using marijuana at every opportunity. That behavior soon escalated into criminal activity, and my life spiraled out of control. I fell into a pattern of doing whatever I wanted, regardless of the consequences.
As my alcoholism and addiction progressed, I sacrificed relationships with my mother, father, sister, wife, son, ex-girlfriend (the mother of my daughter), and daughter. I also lost my physical well-being, losing an eye and my hearing in one ear and, eventually, my freedom. The insanity of it all was that I came to see this as normal, simply collateral damage for the lifestyle I chose.
The one good decision I made during my addiction was going to WestCare in May 1999. I’d love to say it was my idea, that I’d finally had enough of the chaos, but that wasn’t the case. In 1998, I caught a serious criminal case. I considered it divine intervention. I knew that if I didn’t complete WestCare, I’d likely spend the next 25 years incarcerated. When I arrived at Harris Springs Ranch, I didn’t intend to change. I planned to manipulate the system, finish probation, and return to the life I knew. But Harris Springs Ranch (and by extension, WestCare) had a bigger impact on me than I could have imagined.
At the time, it was a 90-day program, but I stayed for 122 days. I wrote more than 32,000 words in assignments before I finally began to listen. That accountability brought about a genuine shift in behavior. I learned how to function within society and follow the rules. When I left the Ranch, I took the advice I’d been given: I got a sponsor and worked the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. To this day, I actively participate in my recovery.
I get to work with my sponsor-ees daily and be a part of their recovery journeys. I have restored relationships with my mother, sister, son, daughter, and wife. Every Sunday, I go to my mother’s house and help with anything she needs. I’m there to support my mom and wife during any medical challenges. I’m present and a positive influence in my children’s lives.
Success Story
One of my goals after graduating from WestCare was to earn a degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. I achieved that in 2006, graduating with honors in Construction Management. Today, I can say I have a job that I truly enjoy.
A critical part of my recovery is my involvement with the WestCare Alumni group, which I’ve been active in for the past 26 years. My favorite part of that commitment is returning to Harris Springs Ranch on the first Saturday of every month to share my journey with new clients.
I have a truly blessed and amazing life — and it all began at Harris Springs Ranch.
By Dave P., WestCare Nevada Alumni
father returned from his final tour in Vietnam, my parents divorced. worked two jobs to support us. During that time, I made a conscious rebel against societal norms. I began drinking and using marijuana at opportunity. That behavior soon escalated into criminal activity, and my life of control. I fell into a pattern of doing whatever I wanted, regardless of consequences.
alcoholism and addiction progressed, I sacrificed relationships with my father, sister, wife, son, ex-girlfriend (the mother of my daughter), and also lost my physical well-being, losing an eye and my hearing in one eventually, my freedom. The insanity of it all was that I came to see this as simply collateral damage for the lifestyle I chose.
good decision I made during my addiction was going to WestCare in May love to say it was my idea, that I’d finally had enough of the chaos, but that case. In 1998, I caught a serious criminal case. I considered it divine intervention. I knew that if I didn’t complete WestCare, I’d likely spend the next 25 incarcerated. When I arrived at Harris Springs Ranch, I didn’t intend to planned to manipulate the system, finish probation, and return to the life I Harris Springs Ranch (and by extension, WestCare) had a bigger impact I could have imagined.
it was a 90-day program, but I stayed for 122 days. I wrote more than words in assignments before I finally began to listen. That accountability about a genuine shift in behavior. I learned how to function within society the rules. When I left the Ranch, I took the advice I’d been given: I got a and worked the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. To this day, I actively in my recovery.
One of my goals after graduating from WestCare was to earn a degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. I achieved that in 2006, graduating with honors in Construction Management. Today, I can say I have a job that I truly enjoy.
A critical part of my recovery is my involvement with the WestCare Alumni group, which I’ve been active in for the past 26 years. My favorite part of that commitment is returning to Harris Springs Ranch on the first Saturday of every month to share my journey with new clients.
I have a truly blessed and amazing life — and it all began at Harris Springs Ranch.
work with my sponsor-ees daily and be a part of their recovery journeys. I restored relationships with my mother, sister, son, daughter, and wife. Every go to my mother’s house and help with anything she needs. I’m there to mom and wife during any medical challenges. I’m present and a influence in my children’s lives.
The
Clients
WestCare Team
Inspires Hope and Change at Women and Children’s Village
By Andrew Moran, Development Director
In a heartwarming demonstration of community support and collaboration, the WestCare team has been making waves with their tours at the Women and Children’s Village, Residential Facility, and Transitional Housing. As we approach the completion of the first phase of 26 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, set to be finished by November, excitement is palpable. This landmark achievement will allow families to transition into supportive living arrangements, enabling them to reunify with their children while receiving the vital assistance they need.
WestCare’s vision extends beyond mere treatment and a roof over your head; it embodies a commitment to creating a nurturing environment. With plans for four playgrounds, the organization is dedicated to ensuring that children experience wellness and mindfulness during their recovery. “We want this to be a fun day camp, not an institution,” emphasizes a Donor. Recognizing the intense stress that childcare can impose on families, especially following treatment, WestCare is steadfast in its mission to provide a supportive atmosphere during these vulnerable times.
We have received tremendous backing from key figures in the state, highlighting the importance of community partnerships. Recently, WestCare had the honor of hosting tours for influential leaders, including Christine Hess, CFO of the Nevada Housing Division, and Steve Aichroth, Division Leader. Their instrumental support helped WestCare secure funding for the ambitious 84-apartment village through Home Means Nevada and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
The commitment from the state government, extending to Governor Lombardo has been unwavering. With Nevada ranking sixth in the nation for excessively costburdened homeowners, the Governor has made housing, education, and supportive services a top priority. His championing of the Nevada Housing and Attainability Act (AB540) underscores a strategic commitment to affordable housing, paving the way for initiatives that directly benefit families in need.
Attorney General Aaron Ford also made a significant impact during his visit, celebrating Nevada’s success in securing over $1.2 billion in opioid settlement funds—the highest per-capita total in the country. “We deserve better,” he stated, expressing his determination to hold accountable those responsible for the crisis. Ford’s commitment to WestCare reflects a broader desire to support organizations that are on the front lines, addressing the needs of those affected by the epidemic. In a spirited meeting with newly elected Mayor Shelley Berkley—a staunch WestCare advocate for five decades— it was revealed that a former Shelter and Services Committee is being formed, and WestCare is invited to join. Mayor Berkley’s ongoing support adds another layer of strength to the initiatives being developed.
Lastly, Nevada State Treasurer Zach Conine shared unique ideas for collaboration, advocating for a straightforward solution to homelessness: “More homes, more supportive services.” This simple yet powerful message resonates with WestCare’s mission, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive support to uplift the community.
Throughout these meetings with prominent leaders, a recurring theme emerged: WestCare’s continuous need for funding to protect and serve the most vulnerable populations— those who are underserved and underinsured. “At our organization, we don’t pick sides, We always want to play fair in the sandbox because together, we can achieve so much more than we can alone.”
As WestCare forges ahead, the collaborative spirit and unwavering commitment from community leaders serve as a beacon of hope for families in need. The impending completion of the Women and Children’s Village is not just a milestone; it’s a testament to what can be accomplished when compassion, dedication, and community come together. this dream has been coming to fruition for many decades, and we are so proud to be there for a first of its kind. The future is bright for those who will call WestCare home, and the journey has only just begun.
