By Esmeralda Padilla-Gould
In the heart of Southern Nevada, there resides a beacon of hope and unwavering dedication, and that beacon is Sonny Vinuya. His extraordinary journey, rooted in a profound sense of compassion and a deep connection to the community, is nothing short of heartwarming.
“Meeting with Nevada Governor Joe Lambardo
-Sonny Vinuya
is a moment of inspiration and leadership.”
A Multifaceted Role: As the Southern Nevada Outreach Director for Governor Joe Lombardo’s office, Sonny is more than a public servant; he’s a bridge of understanding and a champion of the people. His role encompasses a myriad of responsibilities, far beyond representing the Governor at official functions. Covering areas like Laughlin, Lincoln County, Boulder City, and Pahrump, Sonny immerses himself in the lives of local leaders. He listens to their challenges, dreams, and aspirations. He’s a vital connection between the state government and its citizens. His scope extends to various issue areas, including healthcare, small businesses, mental health, and housing. Furthermore, Sonny acts as a vigilant liaison to several state agencies, ensuring their concerns, issues, and progress are conveyed effectively.
Navigating Challenges: At the core of Sonny’s mission is helping constituents navigate the labyrinth of state agencies. His work transcends merely providing assistance; it’s about ensuring that every voice, whether from a small business wrestling with licensing issues or an individual seeking government resources, is not just heard but actively listened to. He guides them to the right channels for assistance, helping them navigate the complexities. Common challenges include licensing hurdles for both individuals and businesses and ensuring that people find the right government resources.
Community Commitment: Sonny’s commitment to community service shines as bright as the Nevada sun. His involvement with the Clark County Asian American Community and the Council of Chambers speaks volumes. During his tenure as AAPI County Commissioner, he left an indelible mark. Sonny played a pivotal role in identifying leaders of AAPI communities, understanding their needs, and exploring the feasibility of an AAPI multi-purpose center. In the Council of Chambers, he achieved what many thought impossible by spearheading the creation of an Associate Health Plan (AHP) for business owners, a groundbreaking move aimed at providing affordable healthcare coverage for them.
Leading the Las Vegas Asian Chamber: As the President and CEO of the Las Vegas Asian Chamber of Commerce, Sonny’s tenure was a time of transformation. The chamber, under his visionary leadership, saw its membership triple and achieved a series of milestones. He facilitated dialogues between the health district and AAPI restaurant owners, creating solutions that had a lasting impact. Additionally, he actively advocated for laws that brought about positive changes in the community.
Engaging Broader Issues: Sonny’s involvement with the Attorney General’s Tech Crime Board and NAFFAA showcased his dedication to broader issues. He believes in the power of serving the community in unique ways, showing that one doesn’t need an elected title to make a significant difference.
Continual Education: Sonny’s commitment to lifelong learning is a testament to his desire for growth. Graduating from the FBI Citizens Academy and the Las Vegas Chamber leadership program, he absorbed valuable knowledge that enriched his community involvement. He learned the intricacies of managing diverse workforces and the importance of public relations in preventing crimes.
Supporting Autism: Sonny’s current advisory roles for the Collaboration Foundation, Las Vegas Adult Day Care Association, and Sing out for Autism demonstrate his unwavering dedication to supporting individuals with autism. The Collaboration Foundation, a one-stop-shop for autism resources, has become a model inspiring similar initiatives across states. Paired with Sing out for Autism, it aims to break the taboos surrounding autism in the AAPI community and connect families to vital resources through the Collaboration Foundation.
Balancing Professional Experience: With a background in commercial banking and a master’s degree in healthcare administration, Sonny brings a unique perspective to public service. His knowledge of both business and healthcare informs his approach to advocacy and community involvement.
Family Influence: Sonny’s deep-seated commitment to community well-being is deeply influenced by his family. Many of his loved ones are healthcare professionals, from doctors and RNs to respiratory therapists. Their stories and challenges have not only shaped his perspective but also heightened his understanding of the profound impact healthcare has on individuals and communities.
Future Aspirations: Sonny’s vision for the future is filled with hope and a commitment to continued service. He aspires to secure a leadership role in a state agency, furthering his contributions to positive change. He’s dedicated to lifelong learning, offering invaluable insights, and shaping a brighter future for his community.
Sonny Vinuya’s journey is a testament to the power of compassion, unwavering commitment, and the boundless impact one person can have on a community. His story is not just
inspiring; it’s a testament to the extraordinary good that one heart, one voice, and one person can achieve in the name of community
and humanity.
