Las Vegas First Community Service Foundation serves the community, supports small businesses, stimulates the economy, and promotes cultural tourism – celebrating local art, artists, music, musicians, architecture, and history, right along with outdoor recreation. Las Vegas FIRST!

Mission statement

To advance the economic vitality and support the rich history and culture of Las Vegas NM and the surrounding area through promotion of local businesses, tourism, and education. (Adopted April 2026)

Who we are and how we got here

Las Vegas First Independent Business Alliance (our prior name) was a voluntary association of independently owned businesses located in or near Las Vegas, New Mexico, and has been in existence since the early 1990’s.

In 2001, the original organization was incorporated as a 501(c)(6) non-profit corporation, whose purpose was “…to help the greater Las Vegas area maintain its unique community character, provide continuing opportunities for entrepreneurs, build economic strength, and prevent the mass displacement of community-based businesses by national and international chains” (from the By-laws as revised May 2009).

To that end, Las Vegas First IBA sponsored and promoted events in the Las Vegas area, advertised collectively on behalf of members, cooperated and coordinated with other Las Vegas area community and business organizations and governmental bodies, and encouraged the mutual support of its members.

In 2020, Las Vegas First expanded its scope by incorporating Las Vegas First Community Service Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

In terms of cooperative advertising, marketing efforts, and mutual support, we continue to promote historic Las Vegas as a destination for visitors and locals alike.

“When we support local businesses, we’re not just buying a product, we’re investing in our community.”

Regular (voting) membership is open to any independently owned business or local non-profit organization operating directly or indirectly in the Las Vegas area, as well as to supportive individuals. Non-local corporations that want to support our work may also become members but without voting rights.

Members of Las Vegas First serve or have served as volunteers on the boards of both Las Vegas Kiwanis Clubs (Sunrise and Noon-time), the Las Vegas Arts Council, Main Street de Las Vegas, the City of Las Vegas’ Lodgers’ Tax Board, Las Vegas/San Miguel Chamber of Commerce, Las Vegas Economic Development Corporation, Citizens’ Committee for Historic Preservation and other area non-profits.

Various public servants and city officials often attend Las Vegas First meetings to discuss issues and events impacting businesses.

Board of Directors

Susie Tsyitee, President
Arielle Hawney, Vice-President
Caitlyn Howard, Treasurer
Star Ford, Secretary
Christina Muniz
Jim Abreu

Tax Information

Las Vegas First Community Services Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

FEIN is 32-0604351

Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.