Photo by Ryan Hafey on Unsplash

by Nicholas Sommer
on May 2, 2025

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Compassionate Las Vegas is a community network that was created to build a movement by honoring individuals who embody compassion in our neighborhoods.

“I try to give people not so much a handout, but a hand up. Everybody has a story, and it’s all different. Every story is unique, my job is not to judge but to help out in any way I can,” Pastor Russ Smethers, who has been helping the homeless population for the past fifteen years, said. 

Most of the work done by this year’s recipients happens in the shadows, wrapping support around our most vulnerable.

Compassionate Las Vegas belongs to a network of over 500 compassionate communities across 45 countries, with over 2,766 partnerships. 

“What makes this place truly extraordinary isn’t just what we do, it’s who we are. We are a compassionate city,” Will Rucker from Compassionate Las Vegas said.

The following industries were recognized: Health & Wellness, Education, Housing Security, Human Trafficking Prevention, Strengthening the Family, Restorative Practices and Environmental Sustainability and Climate Resilience.

The 2025 honorees were awarded with an engraved plaque in recognition for their dedication to the community. Additionally, a tree will be planted at Rainbow Family Park in honor of the 2025 Compassionate Award recipients.

The 2025 winners include: Pauline van Betten, Latoya Holman, Katherine Anderson, Pastor Russell Smethers, Kimberly Harvey, Maria Tucker, and Dr. Robert Bush.

See article from source:

Las Vegas honors community heroes for their impact and service