LAS VEGAS — The LGBTQ+ Center of Las Vegas has announced a landmark expansion of its services with the acquisition of Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) and Golden Rainbow. The move brings three of Southern Nevada’s most respected nonprofit organizations together under one organization, creating a comprehensive support network for people living with HIV/AIDS.
The announcement marks one of the most significant developments in the region’s HIV/AIDS services in decades. Together, the organizations represent more than 100 years of combined experience serving Southern Nevada through healthcare, education, housing assistance, financial aid and community support.
Expanding access to critical services
The acquisition allows clients to access a broader range of services through one coordinated system.
Individuals and families can now receive healthcare, behavioral health support, housing assistance, HIV prevention and treatment services, emergency financial resources and other essential programs through a single organization. Leaders say the integrated model will improve coordination while making services easier to access.
John Waldron, CEO of The LGBTQ+ Center of Las Vegas, said every organization involved shares the same mission of improving lives. By combining resources and expertise, the new organization can provide stronger, more sustainable support for Southern Nevada residents.
Experienced leadership remains in place
The transition also preserves the experience and knowledge of the existing organizations.
AFAN Executive Director Antioco Carrillo will join The Center’s executive leadership team as Chief Housing and Integrated Health Officer. In addition, every current employee from AFAN and Golden Rainbow will become part of The Center, ensuring clients continue receiving uninterrupted care from familiar staff members.
Founded in 1984, AFAN is Nevada’s oldest HIV/AIDS service organization. For more than four decades, it has provided case management, transportation assistance, emergency financial support, housing programs and prevention education.
Golden Rainbow, established in 1987, has focused on housing assistance and financial support for Southern Nevadans living with HIV/AIDS. Since 1993, The LGBTQ+ Center has expanded its mission to include healthcare, behavioral health, advocacy, youth services, senior programs and community outreach.
Building a stronger future
Leaders believe the merger will strengthen services while creating long-term financial stability.
A unified organization can direct more funding toward client programs instead of administrative costs. It also creates a stronger position when applying for local, state and federal grants that support healthcare and housing initiatives. Those additional resources will help expand services as community needs continue to grow.
The integration builds on The Center’s recent momentum, including the opening of the Gavin J. Goorjian Community Health Center and the continued expansion of behavioral health services throughout Southern Nevada.
Preserving a legacy of care
Carrillo described the acquisition as a major victory for the community.
He said the partnership protects the legacies of AFAN and Golden Rainbow while creating an even stronger foundation for future generations. Most importantly, clients will continue receiving the services they rely on every day without interruption.
The unified organization reflects a shared commitment to compassion, dignity and accessible care. Community leaders believe the partnership will improve lives while ensuring Southern Nevada remains a place where individuals living with HIV/AIDS receive comprehensive support close to home.
As healthcare needs evolve, The LGBTQ+ Center believes this historic acquisition positions the organization to serve more people than ever before. The merger also reinforces the importance of collaboration among nonprofit organizations working toward a common goal of healthier, stronger communities.
Organization Information
The LGBTQ+ Center of Las Vegas
401 S. Maryland Parkway
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Phone: (702) 733-9800
Website: https://thecenterlv.org/
About the Author
Discover more from JUSTNOWNEWS®
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
