VFW Post 720 opens new veterans resource center in Phoenix

On May 23, 2025, the City of Phoenix celebrated the grand opening of the Veteran Services Center at VFW Post 720, marking a significant milestone in the community's commitment to supporting veterans. The event featured remarks from key figures, including Commander Pat Romero, Councilwoman Laura Pastore, and several community advocates, all emphasizing the center's role in providing essential services to veterans.

Commander Romero opened the ceremony by expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts that transformed the center into a resource hub for veterans. He highlighted the importance of utilizing the space to serve those who have served the country, reinforcing the center's mission to assist veterans in navigating available services.

Councilwoman Pastore underscored the pressing need for veteran support, particularly in light of recent federal cuts to veteran services. She emphasized the center's role in connecting veterans with vital resources, such as food, clothing, and navigation services, which are crucial for their reintegration into civilian life. Pastore acknowledged the contributions of various community organizations and individuals who made the center's opening possible, illustrating the collective effort required to support veterans.

Tara Shad, the executive director of Home Copy Programs, spoke passionately about the challenges veterans face, including the stigma of suffering in silence. She encouraged veterans to seek help at the new center, assuring them that they are not alone and that the resources they need are readily available.

Joe Dora, the veteran service officer at VFW Post 720, reflected on the post's long history of community service and expressed optimism about the center's potential to help veterans access the benefits they have earned. He thanked the city and local leaders for their support in establishing the center, which aims to bridge the gap between veterans and the federal resources designed to assist them.

The event concluded with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, symbolizing the official opening of the center. This new facility represents a vital step forward in ensuring that veterans in Phoenix have access to the support and services they need to thrive in their post-military lives. As the center begins operations, it stands as a testament to the community's dedication to honoring and aiding those who have served the nation.