In this issue:
- Letter from the Director
- Military Appreciation Month
- Organization to Know: Park Forest Veterans Closet & Resource Center
- Events in the Veteran Community
Happy June, Cook County veterans and families!
Over the past month, we have seen dynamic changes in the weather and within our community. May was a very somber time for service members and their families as we remembered those who gave the ultimate sacrifice and honored those who were lost this past Memorial Day.
On Friday May 6, 2022, a very special group of veterans celebrated their transition and successful completion of the Veterans Treatment Court program. Three amazing veterans were joined by mentors, community organizations, Veterans Affairs staff and judicial staff at the Skokie Courthouse to honor their commencement of the Veterans Treatment Court program.
The mission of the Cook County Veterans Treatment Court program is to assist those who have served in the United States military by reducing their risk of future involvement in the criminal justice system and to improve their overall quality of life. This mission is achieved through the combined efforts of the Veterans Treatment Court team and the community under the supervision of the court.
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Cook County received more than $1 billion through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The County managed a robust process to develop a responsible, comprehensive and equitable spending plan to use ARPA one-time resources to support both immediate recovery needs and long-term transformative initiatives.
The Cook County Department of Veterans Affairs will focus on recovery issues that benefit veterans by teaming up with various bureaus and departments across the County. Support for small businesses, individuals and Veterans Service Organizations are included. Pictured above is the Bureau of Economic Development’s launch of the Cook County Small Business Source (formerly the Cook County Small Business Assistance Program).
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May is a sobering time for many within the veteran community. During this month, there are many celebratory dates that honor our men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces. However, at the end of the month on Memorial Day, we take the time to honor those who gave all. Veteran organizations throughout the County paused and honored those service members no longer with us in person but who live on in spirit.
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On Saturday May 28, 2022, thousands of veterans, families and friends gathered at Midway Plaisance Park in Hyde Park and virtually to ruck together and honor our fallen. Hosted by Chicago Veterans, the 2022 Chicago Veterans Ruck March marked a symbolic time where we recognized those who have fallen in service and those who lost their battle to suicide. This year’s ruck was 17 miles to bring awareness to the 17 service members we lose daily to the silent battle and wounds that aren’t seen.
Stay connected by following the Cook County Department of Veterans Affairs Facebook page.
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Each year the president makes a proclamation to remind Americans of the important role the U.S. Armed Forces have played in the history and development of our country. May was chosen because of its various days to honor our military's achievements including Loyalty Day established in 1921, Victory in Europe (VE) Day commemorating the end of WWII in Europe in 1945, Children of Fallen Patriots Day and the anniversary of the death of Osama bin Laden.
In 1999, Congress designated May as National Military Appreciation Month. Since then, the nation celebrates the service and sacrifice of the U.S. Armed Forces throughout the month with an array of programs and events including Military Spouse Appreciation Day and Armed Forces Day.
In honor of Memorial Day and National Military Appreciation Month, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle extends her thanks to the service members, veterans and military family members of Cook County. Your service to our nation and your community is parallel to none.
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Spotlight on Park Forest Veterans Closet & Resource Center
Located In the south suburbs, the Veterans Closet & Resource Center in Park Forest is a gem for veterans in the surrounding communities. This organization gives service members access to hundreds of household items free of charge each month. In addition to having the items to furnish a one bedroom apartment, this location also has staff on-hand who can assist veterans and their families with applying for benefits and services they’re entitled to.
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The Veterans Closet & Resource Center is located in downtown Park Forest at 351 Founders Way in Park Forest, IL 60466 and is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday from 1 - 3 p.m.
During these hours, veterans can come in to shop as well as receive resources and guidance from the amazing staff on hand.
Under the Village of Park Forest Veterans Commission, the Veterans Closet & Resource Center stands behind the mission to help existing veterans in the south suburban Chicagoland areas as well as those transitioning from active-duty military service back into the community. Services include, but are not limited to access to, physical and mental healthcare, employment preparedness and affordable housing.
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The Park Forest Veterans Commission seeks to understand the needs of veterans and their families, minimize or eliminate barriers to service and improve the overall well-being and quality of life for the veterans they serve. It is their honor to be of service to those who have risked their lives to protect the freedoms we hold dear.
Know an organization that serves veterans in Cook County? Help spread the word and support. Email your submission for Cook County’s Organization to Know to veterans.affairs@cookcountyil.gov.
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Upcoming Events
Freedom Fest
Friday, July 15 from 6 - 11 p.m. with live music from 7 - 10 p.m.
700 block E. Adams (situated between the hotels)
For more information, visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt Post 923 Facebook page or call 773-278-0093.
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