Established in 2002 by Favil West and Chuck Davis, the Foundation Assisting Seniors’ (FAS) mission is to assist seniors in times of illness, recovery, confinement at home, coping with loss of a loved one, and other senior challenges. This organization was formed because they saw firsthand how their own parents and neighbors struggled with things such as transportation and normal household chores during their golden years.
Since 2002, FAS has responded to over 500,000 assists. The HOWRU™ program has saved 13 lives. FAS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public benefit corporation.
It is the ultimate goal of the Foundation to improve the overall quality of life for seniors and veterans by ensuring that they remain as safe and comfortable as possible in their own home as they age. With the support of individual and corporate donors, we look forward to continuing our roles and expanding our resources to help more seniors and veterans in our communities.
What began as a small, community-based effort has grown into a trusted nonprofit serving Seniors throughout the Las Vegas Valley. Over time, the Foundation evolved to focus on providing free durable medical equipment and daily wellness checks, helping Seniors remain independent, supported, and connected in their own homes.
Since its founding, the Foundation Assisting Seniors has remained committed to dignity, compassion, and meeting Seniors where they are, without barriers, paperwork, or cost.
We serve seniors age, 50 and older and veterans of all ages across the Las Vegas Valley, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds with dignity, respect, and compassion.
A Las Vegas resident since 1971, Vicki Bertin has built a career rooted in leadership, entrepreneurship, and community service. With more than five decades in Southern Nevada, she brings deep local insight and long-standing community relationships to her work and leadership.
Vicki began her professional journey as an educator before transitioning into business, founding Answer Plus in 1987, a national call center specializing in medical clients. Under her leadership, Answer Plus was recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Las Vegas from 1994 to 1996.
She has long been active in professional and community leadership, serving on the Board of Directors for the Association of TeleServices International (ATSI). In 2001, Vicki was named a top three finalist for the ATHENA Leadership Award through the Henderson Women’s Chamber of Commerce.
In 2023, after personally benefiting from the services of the Foundation Assisting Seniors, Vicki began volunteering with the organization. She later served as Office Manager and joined the Board of Directors in 2024.
Today, as President & CEO, Vicki serves in her role on a volunteer basis and is deeply committed to advancing the Foundation Assisting Seniors’ mission. Her leadership is guided by a belief that Seniors deserve dignity, timely support, and the opportunity to remain safely and independently in their own homes.
From manufacturing mannequins to playing a pivotal role in shaping the cable TV industry we know today, Ray has always been at the forefront of innovation. Beyond his entrepreneurial spirit, he has dedicated himself to serving the community in numerous ways.
A strong advocate for youth and neighborhood initiatives, Ray has been actively involved in youth soccer, the PTA, Neighborhood Watch, Spring Cleanup, and Paint the Town programs throughout Southern Nevada. His unwavering commitment to helping others has earned him recognition from the Jewish War Veterans of the USA and Neighbors Assisting Neighbors for his efforts in supporting seniors, individuals with disabilities, the homeless, and veterans.
Ray is also the founder of Neighbors Assisting Neighbors (NAN), which has since become an integral part of Community Assisting Seniors. As a member of the Veterans Association in Sun City Anthem, he remains a steadfast supporter of fellow veterans, always ready to lend a hand. Even today, he remains deeply involved in day-to-day operations at the Foundation Assisting
Seniors and Veterans. He spends many days each week in the office, ensuring that medical equipment is properly organized, sanitized, and ready for use. His dedication extends beyond the office, as he frequently delivers equipment to those with urgent or last-minute needs, ensuring that no one goes without essential support.
Ray’s contributions continue to make a lasting impact, reflecting his lifelong commitment to innovation, service, and community betterment.
Born and raised in Vietnam, I came to the United States as an immigrant with a deep sense of purpose and a strong work ethic instilled in me by my parents — especially the value of charity and community service. I pursued my education in Utah, earning a degree in finance while working for a medical practice during my college years. That experience sparked a lifelong passion for healthcare, and I’ve proudly built a career in the industry that has spanned over 40 years.
Throughout my journey, I’ve remained deeply committed to serving others. Since the 1980s, I’ve been actively involved in community service — a tradition rooted in my upbringing. After moving to Las Vegas, I continued that mission by volunteering with Three Square, a local organization dedicated to fighting hunger.
As a licensed Medicare insurance agent, I strive to be more than just a resource for coverage — I aim to be a trusted guide and advocate for my clients. That commitment led me to meet Carol Chapman, President of The Foundation Assisting Seniors. Once I learned about the Foundation’s incredible work supporting seniors in need, I knew I wanted to be part of it.
I’m also a proud parent of four daughters and a joyful grandparent to two grandsons, who continue to inspire me every day. My life has been shaped by resilience, service, and the belief that giving back is one of the greatest privileges we have.
Larry Carter
Lennard Grodzinski
Sharron Grodzinski
JD Sussman
John Wasserburger
Annie Caddick
Pat Caddick
Merrell Virgen
Deborah Pittman
Lynette Chappell
Carol Troesh
Foundation Assisting Seniors is guided by individuals who care deeply about dignity, compassion, and community. We welcome those who feel called to give back by serving on our Board of Directors or Advisory Board.
If you share our commitment to helping Seniors remain safe, independent, and supported at home throughout the Las Vegas Valley, we invite you to learn more about how you can serve.
Please contact us to explore leadership opportunities. We would be honored to connect with you.
