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Our Story

Lander Community Veterans Resource Center was founded in 2024 by a group of local veterans and community advocates who recognized a critical gap in services for the veteran population in Fremont County, Wyoming.

With over 1000 veterans residing in Fremont County—many in rural areas with limited access to VA facilities and support services—our founders saw firsthand the challenges facing veterans transitioning to civilian life, dealing with service-related injuries, or simply needing connection with others who understood their experiences.

What began as informal gatherings at local coffee shops has grown into a comprehensive resource center offering peer support, crisis assistance, and community connection programs. Our grassroots approach ensures that we remain responsive to the unique needs of veterans, first responders, and their families in our rural Wyoming community.

Today, we're proud to serve as Lander's primary hub for veteran support, building on our founding principle that no one who served our country should struggle alone when they return home.

 
About Us - Lander Community Veterans Resource Center
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Our Purpose

To provide accessible, compassionate support services for veterans and first responders in Fremont County

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Our Approach

Peer-led programs that create safe spaces for connection, healing, and practical support

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Our Community

Serving the unique needs of rural Wyoming veterans with local, accessible resources

Our Commitment to Fremont County

We believe that supporting those who served strengthens our entire community. Through partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and dedicated volunteers, we're building a network of care that ensures no veteran in Lander or Fremont County faces challenges alone. Our doors are open to all veterans, regardless of discharge status, era of service, or background.

About Us - Lander Community Veterans Resource Center

Mission & Vision

Our commitment to uplifting those who serve and their families

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Our Mission

To provide compassionate, inclusive support that honors the dignity and service of veterans, first responders, and their families through community-centered programs that address both immediate needs and long-term healing.

We create safe spaces where service members and their loved ones can find connection, resources, and hope—ensuring no one walks their journey alone.

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Our Vision

We envision a Fremont County where every veteran, first responder, and family member thrives in a community that understands, values, and actively supports their wellbeing.

A future where accessible, compassionate care is available to all who served, fostering resilience, connection, and meaningful lives beyond service.

Our Core Values

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Compassion

Meeting every individual with empathy, understanding, and genuine care for their unique journey.

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Inclusion

Welcoming all veterans, first responders, and families regardless of background, service era, or discharge status.

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Dignity

Honoring the inherent worth of every person we serve and the sacrifices they've made.

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Healing

Supporting holistic wellbeing—mental, emotional, and physical—through evidence-based and peer-supported approaches.

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Community

Building networks of support that extend beyond our center, strengthening the fabric of Fremont County.

About Us - Lander Community Veterans Resource Center

Our Team & Leadership

Meet the dedicated individuals driving our mission forward

Michael Tanner

Michael Tanner

Executive Director

Michael brings over 15 years of experience in veteran services and nonprofit leadership to LCVRC. As a U.S. Army veteran himself, he understands firsthand the challenges facing service members transitioning to civilian life.

Before joining LCVRC, Michael served as a program director for veteran transition services and has been instrumental in developing peer support models that have been recognized statewide. His commitment to creating accessible, community-driven support systems stems from his own journey and the veterans he's served alongside.

"Our mission isn't just about providing services—it's about building a community where every veteran and first responder knows they have a place to belong and people who genuinely care about their wellbeing."

A Community-Driven Organization

LCVRC operates as a volunteer-based organization, powered by the compassion and dedication of community members who believe in our mission. From our board members to our program volunteers, every individual contributes their time, skills, and heart to ensure we can provide essential services to those who served our nation and community.

Our leadership team works closely with volunteers, community partners, and most importantly—the veterans and first responders we serve—to ensure our programs remain responsive, relevant, and truly community-centered.

Join Our Volunteer Team
About Us - Lander Community Veterans Resource Center

Our Impact So Far

Measuring our progress in serving Fremont County's veteran community

1000+
Veterans served across Fremont County since our founding
12+
Active support programs including peer groups and crisis assistance
2,500+
Hours of direct support provided by our volunteer team annually

Key Milestones & Partnerships

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Grant from LOR Foundation covering first-year operational expenses and facility rent
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Featured in County 10+1 for our innovative peer support model
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Partnerships with 15+ local organizations including food banks, housing services, and mental health providers
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Successful launch of Veterans Talking to Veterans and Moral Injury Support Groups
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Recognition from Wyoming Department of Veterans Services for community impact

Transparency & Accountability

Committed to ethical stewardship and open communication

Our Nonprofit Status

  • Registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
  • EIN: Available upon request for verification
  • All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law
  • Annual filings with IRS and State of Wyoming
  • Governed by an active Board of Directors

Financial Stewardship

  • Annual independent financial reviews
  • Detailed program expense tracking
  • Over 85% of funds directly support programs
  • Regular financial reporting to board and funders
  • Public disclosure of major grants and funding