Compton Honors Our Heroes at the 22nd Annual Veterans Stand Down
- Compton Chamber Admin
- Oct 6
- 3 min read
September 20–22, 2025 — Compton, California
The Compton Chamber of Commerce proudly organized and hosted the 22nd Annual Compton Veterans Stand Down, a three-day community event dedicated to providing essential services, compassion, and hope to veterans in need.
Held in partnership with the City of Compton, VA Long Beach Healthcare System, For the Love of Our Veterans and numerous community organizations, this year’s Stand Down was a powerful display of unity, gratitude, and service.
A Weekend of Compassion and Support
From September 20 through 22, the Compton Veterans Stand Down provided a wide array of critical resources to veterans, including ...
medical and dental care,
VA claims assistance,
mental health services,
legal aid,
housing referrals,
haircuts,
clothing, and
nutritious meals.
More than 75 vendors participated, ranging from healthcare providers and housing specialists to nonprofit organizations and local service agencies.
Thanks to generous collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs, transportation was provided from area VA clinics and VA housing facilities, ensuring that veterans across Los Angeles County could access the event.
The Chamber and its partners including "For the Love of Our Veterans" coordinated food distribution stations, offering fresh fruit, produce, and staple foods such as rice, beans, and potatoes to veterans and their families.
Meals were served throughout the weekend, including daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner for participants, volunteers, and vendors.
By the Numbers
350 veterans and their families attended the event
160 newly registered veterans were entered into the VA system
130 unhoused or humanitarian cases received targeted assistance
16 veterans (10 men and 6 women) stayed overnight on site during the weekend
600 participants fed, including veterans, vendors, and volunteers
These numbers reflect the true spirit of the Compton Veterans Stand Down — a mission rooted in compassion, dignity, and action. Every veteran served represents a life lifted, a story renewed, and a reminder that our community stands together to offer a hand up, not a handout.
Leadership, Dignity, and Celebration
The event opened with a heartfelt welcome by Mayor Emma Sharif, who reaffirmed the City’s ongoing commitment to supporting those who have served our nation. The keynote address was delivered by Christine White, Deputy Director of the VA Long Beach Healthcare System, whose inspiring words emphasized the importance of restoring dignity and stability to the lives of veterans. Compton City Councilmember Deidre Duhart called the Veterans Stand Down a proud Compton tradition that ensures veterans receive the support and gratitude they deserve. “Their service and sacrifice make possible the freedoms we enjoy today,” she said.
Entertainment throughout the weekend featured a live band and talented soloists, uplifting spirits and bringing joy to attendees. The City of Compton produced an official video of the event, which aired on City Channel 36, showcasing highlights and interviews that captured the essence of this compassionate community effort.
A Lifeline of Dignity and Hope
Media coverage from local publications, including Wave Publication and City Pride Magazine, praised the event as a “lifeline of dignity, hope, and restoration” for veterans. Both outlets noted that the Compton Veterans Stand Down continues to be one of the most impactful veteran outreach events in Los Angeles County, connecting hundreds of veterans each year with essential support networks.
The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, Military and Veterans Affairs, and VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System all listed the Stand Down in their official event calendars, further highlighting its importance to regional veteran advocacy efforts.
Thank You to Our Partners and Volunteers
The Compton Chamber of Commerce extends sincere appreciation to the City of Compton, VA Long Beach, Los Angeles County agencies, veteran service organizations, and the dozens of volunteers who made this event possible. Together, they demonstrated that when a community stands united for its veterans, lives are changed for the better.
As we close another successful year, we honor every veteran who served our nation and reaffirm our commitment to continue serving those who once served us.
Posted by:
Compton Chamber of Commerce
“Empowering Commerce. Strengthening Community.”
Read About the Event
Watch the Event
🎥 City of Compton Video Coverage:
The highlights from the 22nd Annual Veterans Stand Down was produced by the City of Compton and aired on Channel 36. Please contact the city hall for video archive.
Posted by:
Compton Chamber of Commerce
“Empowering Commerce. Strengthening Community.”