Out of nearly 75 entries across the state, the Lacey Veterans Services Hub received the Outstanding Service to Veterans Award by the Governor’s Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee (VAAC).
Lacey Mayor Andy Ryder announced the good news during the regular city council meeting yesterday, May 20. The director of the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs, Alfie Alvarado-Ramos, presented the award.
In a statement, Alvardo-Ramos praised Thurston county, particularly the city of Lacey, for providing the top veteran services across the country. “The Lacey Hub is the most innovative and the number one among all of the submissions that we had,” the veterans affairs director shared.
The award is given to five cities across the state in recognition of their outstanding contribution. The Alvarado-Ramos also claimed that Thurston County has the highest number of veterans connected to their benefits. During her speech, Alvarado-Ramos also shared how the city was able to turn the idea of a “one-stop” approach into an outstanding service.
She also looked back at some of the struggles that the facility had, especially with securing the necessary funding for operations. She said, “Now you have a vibrant, recognized, and a high reputation organization that some cities and states come to see.”
The facility provides essential services for veterans. These services include providing assistance with their VA claims, offering on-site counseling, job training for employment, legal services, and even assisting veterans in their basic needs such as food, housing, and healthcare.
In 2019 alone, over 7,000 people came to visit the facility. Currently, they are also providing virtual appointments for those who are unable to come. On Mon., May 24, the organization is moving to another location at 4232 6th Avenue SE, Suite 100. The new building covers 8,400 square feet of space and can accommodate more service providers who want to participate.
In 2020 The JOLT reported that the Veterans Services Hub won the Municipal Excellence Award given by the Association of Washington Cities (AWC).
Mayor Ryder announced that the city plans to hold the 50th Mayor’s Gala night for additional funding for the Lacey Veterans Services Hub. The virtual event is scheduled on June 4 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. He encouraged residents to register and purchase a ticket to win the raffle, and at the same time, support veterans and their families.
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