Board Governance
Veterans Governance: Chairing NMVIC Through Funding Crisis
As Chairman of the New Mexico Veterans Integration Centers Board (2017–2021), led governance and fundraising when declining federal and state funding threatened services for homeless veterans.
Board Chair Tenure
4 Years
Board Service
6 Years
Mission
Sustained
Challenge
New Mexico Veterans Integration Centers faced widening gap between veteran homelessness demand and available funding—declining federal support and consecutive years without additional state funding threatened programs providing housing, employment training, and supportive services.
Situation
Andrews served first as Board Director (2016) then as Chairman (2017–2021) for the Albuquerque-based 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping homeless veterans and those in housing crisis.
Strategy
Lead transparent governance while actively championing fundraising and operational resource development. Engage community and corporate sponsors. Maintain program quality despite funding constraints. Advocate publicly for veteran homelessness awareness.
Execution
Led VIC-TORY virtual fundraiser and community awareness campaigns. Secured corporate sponsorships from Verus Research and local businesses. Championed GoFundMe and direct donation initiatives. Maintained board governance standards throughout funding uncertainty.
Outcome
Sustained NMVIC operations and community programs through proactive fundraising when institutional funding fell short. Raised public awareness of veteran homelessness disproportionality. Demonstrated that civic board leadership requires operational engagement, not passive oversight.
Business Impact
- ✓4+ years as Board Chairman
- ✓Fundraising campaigns during funding crisis
- ✓Corporate sponsorship development
- ✓Veteran homelessness awareness advocacy
- ✓501(c)(3) governance maintained throughout
Lessons Learned
- “Nonprofit boards must lead fundraising, not merely approve budgets”
- “Veteran service organizations require advocates who understand both military and civic ecosystems”
- “Governance during crisis demands transparency and community engagement”