2020 Veteran Community Service Award

In partnership with the office of Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, the “Veteran Community Service Award” recognizes an individual or organization that makes a difference in the lives of those who have served our country.

High Desert Medical Group’s Veteran Community Service Award:
Steve Baker of Veterans Outreach

Steve Baker served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War, based at Miramar Naval Air Station near San Diego. He was an Aviation Machinist’s Mate, overhauling engines for F-4 Phantom fighter-bombers, the workhorse aircraft of the Vietnam War, and mainstay of naval aviation. Baker, who worked for 30 years as Executive Director of Grace Resource Center, was its first director, only retiring last year. He continues to work with the faith-based non-profit. In 2003, aided by volunteers, Baker initiated the Veterans Outreach, a targeted response to helping homeless and at-risk veterans. Originally a three-day camping event called Stand Down, the volunteer board shifted it to a one-day event, usually held quarterly at the Grace Chapel campus in Lancaster. During the Veterans Outreach events, dozens of volunteer service organizations, non-profits, and the Department of Veterans Affairs turn out to provide services including housing referrals, healthcare and dental services, hot meals and haircuts, mental health services, and clothing donations. Hundreds of veterans have been served annually, thousands over the years. The pandemic has interrupted Veterans Outreach, but it will continue, and the Grace Resources feeding operation continues.