Letter from the Director of Veterans Affairs Eric Armstrong
Season’s Greetings Cook County Veterans, Service Members and Families,
The Cook County Department of Veterans Affairs (CCVA) wants to take this opportunity to wish you the best this holiday season and a wonderful start to 2026.
CCVA had a very busy fall season celebrating our veteran community and ensuring we provided access to resources and services for veterans, service members and their families.
As we head into the new year, we’re especially excited about what lies ahead. With new initiatives on the horizon and a renewed commitment to innovation and impact, the future is bright, and we can’t wait to share it with you.
Cook County Hosts Annual Veterans Resource Fair
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle welcomed 350 military members, veterans and their families to the CCVA’s annual Veterans Resource Fair at Brookfield Zoo on October 11. More than 28 veteran-serving organizations participated in the event, providing a wide range of resources and support services for attendees. From healthcare and housing to employment, education and legal services, attendees had access to a wealth of information and assistance in one welcoming space.
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Cook County Commissioner Frank J. Aguilar (16th District) and Dr. Terrell Odom, director of the Office for Military-Affiliated Communities at the University of Chicago, joined President Preckwinkle in welcoming attendees from across Cook County.
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Vets and Pets
CCVA partnered with the Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control (ARC), Chicago Animal Care and Control, the South Suburban Humane Society and the Illinois National Guard to host three Vets and Pets clinics this summer.
Veterans, service members and their families received free microchips as well as rabies and distemper vaccines for their pets.
Over 300 pets were serviced at the events.
Service dogs and companion animals play a crucial role in the lives of many military families, offering emotional support, reducing stress and aiding in the transition to civilian life. Programs like Vets and Pets recognize the powerful bond between veterans and their animals, ensuring these loyal companions receive the care they deserve.
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Operation Green Light for Veterans
From November 4 to 11, 2025, Cook County joined counties across the nation to participate in Operation Green Light for Veterans. Cook County administrative buildings were illuminated in green throughout the week leading up to Veterans Day to honor the courage, service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans.
By shining a green light, Cook County stood in solidarity with military members, veterans and their families, reaffirming the County’s ongoing dedication to ensuring they receive the recognition and resources they deserve.
Eleven County-affiliated buildings participated in Operation Green Light for Veterans. To learn more about this national effort visit the Operation Green Light for Veterans | National Association of Counties
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Cook County Veterans and Military Employee Appreciation Ceremony
CCVA hosted a ceremony and luncheon for employee veterans and service members to honor their service to the nation as well as Cook County.
President Preckwinkle was joined by Commissioners John Daley (11th District), Donna Miller (6th District), Dr. Kisha McCaskill (5th District) and Jessica Vasquez (8th District) as well as Chief Administrative Officer Zahra Ali and Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security Executive Director and U.S. Coast Guard veteran Alex Joves in celebrating the County’s employee veterans and service members.
This annual recognition highlights the invaluable contributions veterans and military-connected employees make both in uniform and in public service. Their leadership, integrity, and commitment to mission exemplify the values that strengthen the County’s workforce and community.
Veterans Day
President Preckwinkle and leadership from CCVA participated in the 2025 Veterans Day Ceremony at Soldier Field on November 11. The event honored the brave men and women who have served our nation in both war and peace, bringing together veterans, service members, their families and community leaders from across the region. |
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County Resources for Service Members and Veterans
Veteran-Owned Business Certification
Are you a veteran business owner? Do you qualify as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business (SDVOB)?
Cook County encourages veteran entrepreneurs to take advantage of certification opportunities available through the Cook County Diversity Management System.
Becoming a certified veteran-owned or SDVOB opens the door to valuable opportunities, such as increased visibility, access to County contracts and inclusion in supplier diversity initiatives.
These certifications help ensure veteran-owned businesses are represented and supported in County procurement processes.
Register and Apply for Certification
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:
Veterans with Disabilities: www.cookcountyassessor.com/veterans-disabilities-exemption
Returning Veterans: www.cookcountyassessor.com/returning-veterans-exemption
WWII Veterans: www.cookcountyassessor.com/wwii-veterans-exemption
Visit the Cook County Assessor’s Office website to learn about all available exemptions.
Connect with Cook County Veterans Affairs Online
Veterans, service members and military families can now use the new veterans information webform on the CCVA 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.
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