By Debbie Hall
A landmark collaboration brings together more than 100 years of service to better support the HIV/AIDS community.
In a historic decision that will transform HIV/AIDS assistance programs across Southern Nevada, The LGBTQ+ Center of Las Vegas will merge with Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) and Golden Rainbow, forming an inclusive system under which the three nonprofit organizations will operate.
This merger aims to consolidate the organizations, improving the availability of vital programs for individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS, which offer medical, housing, psychological help and other support. The nonprofit organizations share up to 100 years of cumulative experience in Southern Nevada.
“Every organization involved in this effort shares the same goal: improving lives,” said John Waldron, CEO of The Center, in a press release. “By combining our strengths, we are creating a stronger, more sustainable system of care that will benefit individuals, families and the entire Southern Nevada community.”
The merger will enhance access to care by establishing a coordinating system where clients may receive various services from the same organization. According to the executives, the simplified method will help remove the steps preventing patients from receiving care while enabling more funds to be used for service delivery instead of overhead costs.
As part of the transition, AFAN Executive Director Antioco Carrillo will assume the role of Chief Housing and Integrated Health Officer at The Center, helping oversee the integration of services and programs. All current AFAN and Golden Rainbow employees will become part of The Center’s staff, ensuring continuity of care and uninterrupted support for existing clients.
For decades, AFAN and Golden Rainbow have been at the forefront of Southern Nevada’s response to HIV/AIDS. Founded in 1984 and 1987, respectively, the organizations have provided education, prevention programs, medical referrals, transportation assistance, emergency financial support and housing services for thousands of Southern Nevadans.
Since opening its doors in 1993, The Center has grown into one of the region’s leading social service organizations, providing comprehensive programs that support the LGBTQ+ community while welcoming anyone seeking care, connection and assistance.
The newly integrated organization will offer several key benefits for clients, including:
- Coordinated access to healthcare, housing, behavioral health and financial assistance through one organization.
- Increased investment in direct client services by maximizing organizational resources.
- Enhanced long-term sustainability through a stronger financial and operational infrastructure.
- Greater competitiveness for local, state and federal grants that support HIV/AIDS services and community health programs.
The announcement builds upon The Center’s recent expansion efforts, including the opening of the Gavin J. Goorjian Community Health Center, the continued growth of behavioral health services and additional investments in programs serving Southern Nevada’s most vulnerable residents.
By combining the expertise, experience and missions of three longstanding organizations, The Center aims to create a more resilient network of support that not only meets today’s needs but also ensures HIV/AIDS services remain strong and accessible for generations to come.
For clients, donors and the broader Southern Nevada community, the integration represents more than an organizational change—it marks a renewed commitment to comprehensive, compassionate care and a healthier future for everyone affected by HIV/AIDS.
“This is a tremendous win for our community,” said Carrillo. “It not only strengthens our collective ability to provide critical services but also allows us to preserve the legacies of AFAN and Golden Rainbow. Together, we are creating a stronger foundation for the future while ensuring clients continue receiving the support they depend on today.”
