Nevada Nurse Unlocks First Home Through Workers' Advantage Program

The state initiative offers up to $20,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance for essential workers.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:04pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a nurse's scrubs and stethoscope repeated in a tight grid pattern, capturing the essential role of healthcare workers and the new opportunities they are finding through a state housing assistance program.A creative pop art tribute to the essential workers who have selflessly cared for their communities, now able to achieve the dream of homeownership.Las Vegas Today

Chuck Anazodo, a Nevada nurse, recently purchased his first home with the help of the state's Workers' Advantage Program, which provides up to $20,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance for essential workers in healthcare, public safety, education, and construction. After putting his homeownership dreams on hold during the pandemic to focus on caring for patients, Anazodo was able to secure a new home for his family of four with the program's financial support.

Why it matters

The Workers' Advantage Program aims to make homeownership more accessible for essential workers in Nevada, where housing affordability remains a significant challenge. By offering substantial financial assistance, the program helps bridge the gap between wages and rising home prices, enabling key community members like nurses to put down roots and build generational wealth.

The details

Anazodo, who works in hospice care, was close to buying a home in 2020 but put those plans on hold when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. After years of caring for others, he was finally able to unlock the door to a home of his own with the help of the Workers' Advantage Program. The program provides eligible essential workers with up to $20,000 that can be used for a down payment, closing costs, or to buy down an interest rate. Anazodo was able to use the funds to cover part of his down payment and closing costs, as well as to buy down his mortgage rate.

  • In 2020, Anazodo was close to buying his first home but put those plans on hold due to the pandemic.
  • Last month, Anazodo and his family of four moved into their new home.

The players

Chuck Anazodo

A Nevada nurse who recently purchased his first home with the help of the state's Workers' Advantage Program.

Kenya Posey

A realtor with Keller Williams Realty who connected Anazodo with the Workers' Advantage Program and helped him secure his new home.

Timeka Clark

A loan consultant with The Gatling Group who worked with Anazodo to utilize the program's financial assistance.

Workers' Advantage Program

A Nevada state initiative that offers up to $20,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance to essential workers, including those in healthcare, public safety, education, and construction.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Right before COVID, I was close to getting a home. But when COVID hit, I was all about saving lives... you know, I'm a nurse.”

— Chuck Anazodo, Nurse

“Seeing people counting their days... It's emotionally draining. But it adds value to what I do. And I love it.”

— Chuck Anazodo, Nurse

“The first person that came to mind was Chuck... I said listen — there's $20,000 about to hit. Let's get you connected with my lender.”

— Kenya Posey, Realtor

“He was able to use it to buy down his rate, cover part of the down payment, and some of his closing costs.”

— Timeka Clark, Loan Consultant

“I would just encourage people to make a bold step... take the opportunity.”

— Chuck Anazodo, Nurse

What’s next

State officials say there is still money available through the Workers' Advantage Program, and about 450 qualified families could still apply and get help buying a home.

The takeaway

The Workers' Advantage Program is a valuable initiative that helps make homeownership more accessible for essential workers in Nevada, enabling them to put down roots, build wealth, and continue serving their communities.