“Each time I hear that they get their benefits, it’s rewarding,” says Amy Lesher.
Her journey to working in Veterans Affairs (VA) was anything but straight. Amy, a proud UNLV alumna, ‘18 BS Human Services and '23 MSW Social Work, began her professional journey with an unexpected pivot.
Born into a family of educators and veterans, she tried to follow tradition by starting her undergraduate degree in secondary education. However, she soon realized that teaching in a classroom wasn’t her calling and transitioned to human services.
The program would go on to equip her with skills she now employs in her role as a SOAR social worker who helps homeless veterans get their social security benefits.
The Path to Veterans' Support
“What I really liked about the human services program is that you could go into the field and explore the different career paths,” Amy said.
With two practicums, one at a mental health agency and the other with UNLV Project FOCUS, she gained hands-on experience in assisting people with varying needs. Naturally, she would have gone for a master's in mental health, but her desire for the flexibility to work anywhere guided her to social work.
In her first experience working in a VA medical-surgical unit, she found herself drawn to supporting those who served. With a family of veterans, including her father and grandfathers, she understood how they often struggled with getting service-connected benefits.
She jumped on an opportunity to work on a housing program jointly run by the VA and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. After shadowing field workers helping homeless veterans access rental assistance, her calling was clear.
Beyond the Paperwork
Amy's work extends beyond pushing paper in an office. At least twice a week, she meets veterans at shelters, transitional housing, or at their Section Eight residences. She helps them navigate complex bureaucratic systems and educates them on their VA and Social Security benefits.
Amy’s experience has shown her that the veteran community is vast and varied, including people of color, women, transgender individuals, and naturalized citizens from other countries. Her priority is helping every eligible vet successfully apply for their benefits. Occasionally, she steps in to address other immediate needs, such as utility payments and even getting original copies of naturalization papers.
“I am the next line of defense after their case managers,” she stated.
Amy’s approach reflects compassion and the understanding that supporting veterans requires meeting them where they are, literally and figuratively.
A Legacy of Service
Amy’s empathy extends beyond her clients. She channels the same commitment to community service through mentorship and volunteering as an alumni mentor. She believes in helping students navigate their professional paths.
“I have always enjoyed mentoring other people and validating the experiences they're going through,” Amy shared.
Her advice for students and alumni seeking to make a difference is simple. Volunteer in areas interesting to them, remain open to unexpected opportunities, and approach service with empathy and dedication.
Amy Lesher exemplifies UNLV's commitment to community service through her work. Her journey demonstrates how education, empathy, and unwavering dedication can create meaningful social impact.
Written by Sakinah Musa.