Vegas Strong Resiliency Center Expands to Serve Southern Nevada Crime Victims
The Vegas Strong Resiliency Center, initially established as a vital resource hub for survivors in the aftermath of the tragic Oct. 1 mass shooting, is undergoing a transformation. It is not only relocating but also expanding its services to encompass all crime victims in Southern Nevada.
The Resiliency & Justice Center will find its new home adjacent to the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada’s upcoming building on East Charleston Boulevard, with an expected completion date in 2025. This move comes just before the sixth anniversary of the Route 91 Harvest festival shooting, where 60 lives were lost, and countless others were injured.
Recognized for its exemplary contributions, the Vegas Strong Resiliency Center offers survivors of the mass shooting and other affected individuals access to crucial services, including free legal advice, compensation programs, and mental health resources. As the nonprofit behind the center embarked on its journey, it became evident that the need extended far beyond mass violence survivors. Thus, a decision was made to expand the center’s reach to encompass victims of all violent crimes in southern Nevada, serving as a blueprint for other communities grappling with similar tragedies nationwide.
The current resiliency center, situated a short distance away from the Legal Aid Center’s main headquarters, is set to close its doors and relocate to the new building’s first floor. This pivotal development presents an opportunity to expand legal aid for the most vulnerable members of the community, while also creating a resource and referral center specifically designed for survivors of violent crimes.
The forthcoming 40,000-square foot, three-floor building, to be erected at the site of a vacant bank at 801 E. Charleston Blvd, will house the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada Advocacy & Justice Center. The complex will feature a parking garage and serve as the first statewide service campus, providing justice and facilitating healing for all Nevadans impacted by the devastating trauma of violent crime.
With an estimated cost of $30 million, a significant portion of the necessary funds have already been raised, demonstrating the community’s commitment to supporting this crucial cause. The growth of the Advocacy & Justice Complex is essential, given that the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada has witnessed a near quadrupling of clients seeking a myriad of legal services over the past decade. This includes victims of domestic violence and human trafficking, among others.
As the Vegas Strong Resiliency Center transitions into its expanded role, it will continue to serve as a beacon of hope and support for all crime victims in Southern Nevada. The transformative power of this initiative serves as a testament to the remarkable resilience of communities when united in the face of adversity.