LOS ANGELES, CA (December 10, 2025) — Veterans service organizations and community partners from across Los Angeles County gathered on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at The California Endowment to celebrate the recipients of the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Annual Veteran Service Awards. The event recognized individuals, teams, and partners whose work continues to strengthen access, trust, and care for veterans and their families countywide.
“The work recognized through these awards represents the heart of our veteran-serving community,” said Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA) Director Jim Zenner. “Each recipient plays a role in building trust, strengthening access, and ensuring veterans feel supported every step of the way.”
Nominees were honored for their exceptional service, collaboration, and commitment to veteran-centered care.
Among this year’s honorees was the Veteran Peer Access Network Supervisorial District 1 (VPAN SD1) team, which received VPAN Supervisorial District of the Year, while their Program Manager Leo Chirinos was named VPAN Program Manager of the Year.
“This year’s recognition is especially meaningful given the challenges our team faced,” said Leo Chirinos, VPAN SD1 Program Manager. “We experienced staff reductions, the loss of experienced team members, and the emotional toll of the wildfires impacting Los Angeles County. Despite it all, our team stepped up and supported wherever we could. This award reflects the dedication and commitment each team member showed in serving our communities when they needed it most.”
Chirinos also highlighted the strength of long-standing partnerships.
“Through the collaborations we’ve built over the years with JVS SoCal and MVA, we’ve remained a constant source of support for veterans and their families across SD1 and Los Angeles County,” he said. “It’s humbling to know our partners felt strongly enough to nominate our team. We’re proud of this honor and excited for what 2026 will bring. Semper Fi!”
The Annual Veteran Service Awards reflect excellence throughout the year. Nominations are submitted anonymously, with monthly award winners advancing to quarterly consideration, and annual recipients selected from those recognized across the year.
“It’s important to recognize those delivering veteran services because their efforts directly affect veterans’ health and quality of life,” said Keith Niesen, FY25 Veteran Service Officer of the Year. “These awards raise awareness of veterans’ needs, encourage continued support and funding, and boost morale for the people doing this critical work.”
The Los Angeles Veterans Collaborative brings together agencies committed to improving access, coordination, and outcomes for veterans and military families across Los Angeles County. Participating organizations include the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA), the Department of Mental Health Veterans Mental Health and Family Services (DMH VMFS), the Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN), Jewish Vocational Service of Southern California (JVS SoCal), and the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet). Together, these partners form a growing, innovative network dedicated to meeting veterans and their families where they are.
FY25 Annual Award Recipients
Volunteer of the Year
Norma Peña (DMH VMFS)
Recognized for her dedication, compassion, and thoughtful care for clients during her internship.
Creative Solution of the Year
Hector “Manny” Arroyo (JVS-SSVF)
Honored for building strong landlord partnerships and expanding housing opportunities for veterans.
Community Partner of the Year
Anthony Rodriguez (CalVet)
Recognized for connecting agencies across Los Angeles and Ventura counties and strengthening interagency collaboration.
Support Service Staff of the Year – DMH VMFS
Alejandro Vasquez
Acknowledged for hands-on leadership, mentorship, and commitment to staff development.
Support Line Agent of the Year
Jorge Marcia (DMH VMFS)
Honored for his problem-solving approach and dedication to improving support line services.
Battle Buddy of the Year (VPAN)
Enrique Conchas (JVS-SD5)
Recognized for exceptional peer leadership, advocacy for LGBTQ+ veterans, and mentorship of peer support specialists.
Support Service Staff of the Year – MVA
Veloice Crosby, Jr.
Celebrated for creating a welcoming, respectful, and supportive environment for veterans and staff alike.
Veteran Service Officer of the Year
Keith Niesen (MVA)
Honored for expert advocacy, mentorship of fellow VSOs, and life-changing outcomes for veterans.
Program Manager of the Year (VPAN)
Leo Chirinos (JVS-SD1)
Recognized for leadership, expertise, and empowering teams to succeed.
Supervisorial District of the Year (VPAN)
JVS-SD1
Honored for consistency, creativity in engagement, and unwavering commitment to veterans and families.
Article by Layla Romero, Staff Assistant I, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
Photos by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
