LOS ANGELES, CA (September 20, 2025) – Two major stand downs this September, the 6th Annual San Gabriel Valley Heroes in the Shadows Stand Down and the 22nd Annual Compton Veteran Stand Down, showcased the power of community partnerships in reinforcing stability and pathways to growth for veterans, service members, and their families. At both events, the Los Angeles County Department of Military & Veterans Affairs (MVA) Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN) played a vital role in ensuring veterans not only received immediate care but also left with the tools and connections needed for long-term support.
The San Gabriel Valley Heroes in the Shadows Veteran Stand Down
On September 12–13, the Heroes in the Shadows Stand Down transformed Whittier Narrows Park into a vibrant hub of care and connection for more than 400 participants. The two-day event brought together veterans, families, service members, and community partners in an environment designed to meet immediate needs while fostering long-term stability.
“A sense of community is something many veterans struggle to find or even isolate themselves from,” said Marine Corps veteran Leo Chirinos, program manager for VPAN Supervisorial District 1 (SD1). “Yet there are so many people who care and want to show support, but don’t always know how or where to do it. Events like this create that space. My hope is that everyone who attended walks away with both knowledge and sense of community.”
Veteran peers from VPAN SD1 played a central role in coordinating the event, managing more than 30 resource providers who offered health screenings, housing navigation, employment support, meals, clothing, and free haircuts.
“I see a lot of smiling faces and it’s great. It is a very proud moment seeing it all come to fruition,” said Chirinos.
VPAN SD1’s involvement went far beyond logistics. Their team organized check-in, oversaw scheduling, and even arranged transportation for veterans who might otherwise have been unable to attend. These efforts ensured that hundreds of veterans had not only access to vital resources but also a welcoming and seamless experience from the moment they arrived.
The event also received support from the 155th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion (CSSB), whose Soldiers assisted on-site and participated alongside attendees.
“A lot of us experience hardships and difficulty finding jobs. We need events like this that have so many resources to help. It helps us feel supported and heard. I am very grateful to see all these people coming to help and knowing that we aren’t alone,” said U.S. Army Reservist Spc. Jou Chi, transportation management coordinator, 155th CSSB.
By combining practical support with peer-to-peer connection, the Heroes in the Shadows Stand Down became more than an event, becoming a place where veterans could find dignity, stability, and the first steps toward renewed growth.
The 22nd Annual Compton Veteran Stand Down
From September 20–22, the 22nd Annual Compton Veteran Stand Down brought together veterans, families, and community partners for three days of services at the City of Compton Careerlink Center. The event offered vital support including housing and employment assistance, legal aid, counseling, health care, clothing, hygiene kits, hot meals, and more.
A key impact of the stand down was the chance for veterans to meet providers and peers face-to-face, building relationships, asking questions directly, and leaving with clear next steps.
“We are in front of them—not just a voice on the phone or something digital. It’s someone they can see in person, and we are here because we want to connect,” said Peter She, career coordinator for VPAN SD4. “It also bridges a connection between our partners. We build relationships that focus on impact. Veterans may arrive frustrated with the system or influenced by negative experiences, but here they can access life-changing resources. Seeing that change and that impact is what makes it worth it.”
At the heart of the event, VPAN Supervisorial District 4 (SD4) partnered with SHARE! Self-Help to connect veterans with both immediate resources and long-term support. Their collaboration also laid the groundwork for VPAN Supervisorial District 2 (SD2), which will expand peer navigation and resource coordination deeper into South Los Angeles.
“They are very eager to help. They are really involved and hands-on,” said U.S. Navy veteran Anthony Granado, squad leader with VPAN SD4, about the SHARE! team.
Together, VPAN SD4 and SHARE! paired professional services with peer support, creating a welcoming environment where veterans found encouragement, understanding, and meaningful connection.
Granado emphasized the deeper impact: “The biggest connection you have is lived experience. You can relate to the other person on a completely other level. VPAN is an organization that has the know-how and the resources to assist veterans—whether it’s housing, mental health, car issues, clothing, a shoulder to cry on—whatever you need, we are here to help.”
Article by: Ashley Cohen, Communications Director, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA)
