Statewide, AZ – (Dec. 15, 2024) – In this installment of the Leader Lens series, we continue to showcase the visions of Arizona leaders who are devoted to enhancing veteran support. During a recent Team of Teams meeting, each leader was asked to share their answer to a vital question: If you could snap your fingers and change one thing about our work or our military and veteran community, what would it be? Their answers reveal diverse perspectives and offer actionable ideas. Today, we explore the vision of Steve Sample, who believes that empowering veterans with comprehensive knowledge of all available services could be transformative.

As the Medical Center Director at the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System (NAVAHCS), Steve Sample plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between veterans and the resources designed to support them. His work involves sharing information, building connections, and helping veterans understand the wide array of services available to them. Over time, Steve has observed that many veterans are unaware of the benefits, programs, and resources they’re eligible to receive. This lack of awareness can prevent them from accessing critical support that could improve their quality of life. Steve envisions a solution where all veterans have a more comprehensive knowledge of the services available to them.

The Vision: Comprehensive Knowledge for All Veterans

Steve’s vision centers on providing every veteran with easy, comprehensive access to information about veteran services across Arizona. While the VA, nonprofits, and community organizations offer a variety of programs and benefits, it’s often challenging for veterans to know where to look or who to ask. This fragmentation can lead veterans to miss out on services, from healthcare and mental health support to educational opportunities, housing assistance, and career resources.

Steve envisions a centralized, well-publicized system or resource hub that consolidates all information on veteran services, making it easily accessible and understandable. Such a resource could be a user-friendly online platform, community-based information sessions, or even a network of trained representatives dedicated to educating veterans on available services. With a clear understanding of the resources available to them, veterans would be empowered to proactively address their needs and build a more stable, fulfilling life post-service.

Additionally, Steve’s vision includes consistent outreach, ensuring veterans are regularly reminded of the services available to them as their needs change over time. A veteran may not need housing assistance when they first leave the military, but later in life, such support could become essential. With ongoing education and awareness, veterans would be able to navigate the system more effectively, accessing support at every stage of life.

Further Reading

• We Asked, Amanda French Answered
• We Asked, Dee Person Answered
• We Asked, John Scott Answered
• We Asked, Lori Highberger Answered
• We Asked, Maureen McCarthy Answered
• We Asked, Sylvia Preston Answered
• We Asked, Tara Bingdazzo Answered
• We Asked, Thomas Winkel Answered
• We Asked, Wanda Wright Answered