When Veterans Lose a Lifeline: A Crisis That Demands Action
A well-known North Las Vegas nonprofit has reached a breaking point. Forgotten Not Gone has served over 20,000 veterans, helping many find purpose after trauma. But now, it’s out of funds. Without community help, this group may shut down. Veterans who depended on it feel abandoned. The city honored them once—now, it’s silent. The pain is real, and the risk is clear. If the community doesn’t act, a vital support system could disappear. This isn’t just a story—it’s a wake-up call.
A Mission Built from Pain: Why ‘Forgotten Not Gone’ Matters
Founded over a decade ago, Forgotten Not Gone was created by veterans for veterans. The co-founders, Peter and Kelly Guidry, built it after Peter struggled with suicidal thoughts post-service. Their solution? Recumbent trikes. Veterans rode together, found community, and began healing.
Over the years, the group grew from a simple idea to a powerful support system. Events, rides, and mentorship programs became their foundation. Veterans who felt isolated found people who truly understood them.
The nonprofit didn’t just give rides. It gave meaning. It helped people feel like they mattered again.
20,000 Veterans Strong: Impact That Can’t Be Ignored
Helping more than 20,000 veterans is no small feat. Each number represents a life touched, a crisis averted, or a sense of purpose rediscovered.
Veterans like Reggie Curry credit Forgotten Not Gone for saving their lives. He describes the moment he joined a trike ride and felt kids and neighbors join in. That moment changed everything for him.
These stories aren’t rare. They’re repeated by countless veterans who found hope through this nonprofit. And that’s what makes this crisis even more heartbreaking.
The Funding Crisis: What Went Wrong
Until recently, Forgotten Not Gone operated with the help of a $1.6 million COVID-era grant from the City of North Las Vegas. But that funding has ended.
Monthly operating costs are high—about $10,000. That covers bikes, maintenance, insurance, and basic utilities. Without the grant, the Guidrys have no choice but to shut down unless immediate help arrives.
Peter and Kelly aren’t asking for luxury. They’re asking for survival. They refuse to charge veterans for services. “We’re not putting a price on something that keeps someone alive,” Peter said.
Community Silence: A Cry for Support
Despite previous city honors—including a day named after the nonprofit—Forgotten Not Gone now feels forgotten itself. There have been calls to officials, requests for space, and even media coverage. Still, the group waits for meaningful action.
Councilman Scott Black has shown interest. He mentioned looking into possible warehouse options. But that’s not enough. The community must move faster. Waiting could mean the loss of everything this group has built.
Local businesses, churches, and civic groups have an opportunity to help. Even small donations or space-sharing could make a big difference.
The Trike Brigade: More Than Just a Ride
The organization’s most unique program is the Trike Brigade. Veterans ride together on three-wheeled recumbent bikes, often joined by families and community members. It’s fun, yes—but it’s more than that.
The rides build camaraderie. They help veterans exercise, connect, and stay mentally healthy. These aren’t just events. They’re lifelines.
Participants often speak of these moments as turning points. The physical act of moving forward mirrors their emotional progress. That symbolism can’t be overstated.
Not Just a Nonprofit—A Family
What makes Forgotten Not Gone stand out is its deeply personal connection to those it serves. This isn’t a large, impersonal organization. It’s a grassroots family.
Peter and Kelly know most of the veterans by name. They ride with them. They check in. They listen. That trust can’t be replicated easily. It’s built on shared experience and mutual respect.
That’s also why losing this group would hurt more than just logistics—it would break a bond.
Why We Can’t Afford to Wait
Time is running out. The last planned ride is scheduled for Saturday. After that, without funding, everything will be packed away.
Many veterans rely on this nonprofit not just weekly, but daily. Removing it from their lives could put some in danger of falling back into depression or isolation.
The message from the Guidrys is clear: they can’t do this alone. But with support, they don’t have to.
How You Can Help Right Now
If you’re in or around North Las Vegas, consider donating space, funds, or supplies. Forgotten Not Gone is transparent about their needs and open to partnerships.
Here are ways you can help:
- Donate: Every dollar goes directly to operations
- Offer Space: A warehouse or meeting area can serve as a hub
- Sponsor a Ride: Local businesses can co-host events
- Spread the Word: Share on social media, reach out to officials
Even if you don’t live nearby, you can still make a difference. Donations are accepted online, and awareness spreads far.
Final Thoughts: It’s Our Turn to Show Up
Veterans gave their all. Now, when they need us, we must show up. Forgotten Not Gone stands as proof that one idea can change thousands of lives.
Let’s not let funding silence something this important. There’s still time to act. The community has a chance to be the reason this nonprofit stays alive. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
If you’re ready to support Forgotten Not Gone, visit their website or contact local leaders today. Your help could keep 20,000+ veterans connected to a place where they feel seen, heard, and valued.As part of our commitment to community impact, we are bringing this story to light because every voice counts when it comes to saving lives.
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