Letter from the Director of Veterans Affairs
Eric Armstrong
Greetings Cook County Veterans, Service Members and Families,
It is my honor to serve the veterans and military-connected community as the Cook County Director of Veterans Affairs. As a third-generation Marine and a product of Chicago-area schools, Chicago and its surrounding suburbs are special to me. It is critical to ensure that military-connected families receive the level of care and service needed to support the veterans they love. It is my responsibility to create programming that will connect our diverse veteran community with organizations that can assist with their needs.
As the incoming director, my plan is to build on the successes of my predecessors while offering an opportunity to grow in new directions. A core value for me is developing a community of strong partnerships. My primary partnership is with the veteran community of Cook County. I encourage you to contact us with ideas about how we can work with you and for you. We will work together to pull each other up and help the veterans to your left and right.
The Cook County Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to bringing your voice to the table as we work together to serve those who served, and I look forward to connecting with you at events throughout the County.
Welcome Aboard Vanessa Walters,
Deputy Director of Veterans Affairs
The Cook County Department of Veterans Affairs is excited to welcome Vanessa Walters to our team as the new deputy director of Veterans Affairs. Vanessa is a dedicated Army veteran with eight years of active-duty service as a field artillery officer. She served with distinction in the 101st Airborne Division, 5th Special Forces Group and the 434th Field Artillery Brigade. In 2019, she deployed to Iraq in support of Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, contributing to multinational efforts in the region.
A proud graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Vanessa also holds a Master of Public Health from Liberty University. During her time in uniform, she commanded at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where she led the transformation of civilians into soldiers, an experience that deepened her commitment to leadership and mentorship.
Vanessa is passionate about veteran health, particularly advocating for inclusive programs that support all who served, regardless of deployment status. Her long-term goal is to write, publish, and influence public policy to ensure every veteran receives the recognition and care they deserve.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Vanessa is an ultramarathon runner and avid reader. She is also a proud spouse of a fellow veteran and the mother of three wonderful children, balancing family life with a continued dedication to service and advocacy.
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Chicago Cook Technology Academy
The Chicago Cook Technology Academy is accepting applications for its next class, which begins this month. The free 11-week program provides veterans with critical career skills in the technology industry and was launched by Cook County in partnership with National Able Network and Microsoft.
Participants train in cloud development or cloud administration, and upon completion have the opportunity to interview for full-time positions in this field.
The Tech Academy continues to educate and empower veterans to learn new technology skills that prepare them for employment. So far, more than 80 veterans in Cook County have completed the program with an average starting pay rate of $25.97 per hour. For more information about the Tech Academy, contact IT Career Lab at info@itcareerlab.org.
To apply, click below.
Vets and Pets
The Cook County Department of Veterans Affairs and the County’s Department of Animal and Rabies Control (ARC) have partnered with Chicago Animal Care and Control and South Suburban Humane Society to host three Vets and Pets clinics. The first clinic was held on Aug. 30 at Kedzie Armory.
These free rabies and distemper vaccine and microchip clinics are planned for dogs belonging to County military veterans and current service members.
The Vets and Pets program aims to support veterans and service members by ensuring their pets are healthy and protected. The clinics are available to the first 100 dogs on a first-come, first-served basis.
Attendees are asked to bring one form of proof of military status. Accepted documents include DD214 paired with photo ID, veteran ID or common access card. All dogs must be leashed.
This is the third year of the program. The final two clinics will be held in October.
Oct. 18, 2025
9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Crestwood Armory
13838 S Springfield Ave.
Robbins, IL 60472
Oct. 25, 2025
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Kedzie Armory
1551 N Kedzie Ave.
Chicago, IL 60651
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President Preckwinkle Celebrates Completion
of Veteran Home Repair Program
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle joined the County’s Department of Veterans Affairs, representatives from Rebuilding Together Metro Chicago (RTMC) and other elected officials to announce the completion of the Veteran Home Repair Program. In partnership with RTMC, Cook County allocated $1.25 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding to complete indoor and outdoor repairs to 30 veteran-owned homes throughout Cook County.
This free program was open to Cook County veteran homeowners, dependent spouses or caretakers who provide housing for a veteran.
The call for applications went out in March of 2023. Repairs began in the fall of 2023, and the final home was completed this May.
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Property Tax Exemptions for
Cook County Veterans
Did you know veteran homeowners in Cook County can save on their property taxes? The following exemptions are available for veterans:
Visit the Cook County Assessor’s Office website to learn about all available exemptions and apply online today.
New WWII Veterans Exemption Available
for Cook County Residents
Beginning in tax year 2024, legislation expanded the Standard Homestead Exemption for Veterans with Disabilities (SHEVD) exemption to a qualified residence that is used by a veteran who was a member of the United States Armed Forces during World War II regardless of their level of disability rating. Veterans who qualify under the World War II provisions do not need to submit an annual reapplication or renewal form.
The term “World War II” means the period beginning on Dec. 7, 1941, and ending on Dec. 31, 1946. If any of the veteran’s service was performed during this time frame, then the veteran is considered a World War II veteran for purposes of this property tax savings.
Veterans can also download the application and mail it to:
Cook County Assessor
118 N. Clark St., Room 320
Chicago, IL 60602
Veterans can also make an appointment and visit one of the Cook County Assessor’s Office branches or connect with their local Township Assessor.
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Need Help? Connect with Cook County
Veterans Affairs Online
Veterans and military families can now use the new Veterans Information Webform on the Cook County Department of Veterans Affairs website to easily request assistance and access support services. Whether you need help obtaining a DD-214, support with a VA claim, emergency financial assistance or need to report the death of a veteran, this secure form is the fastest way to connect with our team.
Upcoming Events
Cook County Veterans Resource Fair
The Cook County Department of Veterans Affairs is hosting its annual Veterans Resource Fair at Brookfield Zoo. Admission and parking are free for all veterans, military members and their families. This event is an opportunity for military community members to connect with veteran service organizations within the County. Attendees are asked to bring proof of military service. Acceptable forms of identification include: DD214 with photo ID, veteran ID card or military CAC card.
Oct. 11, 2025
12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Brookfield Zoo – Discovery Center
8400 31st St.
Brookfield, IL 60513
Operation Green Light for Veterans 2025
Nov. 4 to 11, 2025
Cook County administrative buildings will be lit green to bring awareness and to honor veterans during Veterans Week. Learn more about Operation Green Light for Veterans at the link below.
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