Letter from the Interim Director of Cook County Department of Veterans Affairs Vanessa Walters
As we celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary in 2026, we are especially mindful of the generations of Americans who answered the call to serve. Their sacrifices have preserved the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy today, and Cook County remains dedicated to honoring that legacy through meaningful action and service.
This newsletter highlights recent initiatives, upcoming events, partner programs and important updates that impact military families across Cook County. We are proud of the strong network of organizations, municipalities, businesses and community leaders who work alongside us to improve the lives of veterans and service members everyday.
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The Department of Cook County Veterans Affairs (CCVA) joined veterans, residents and community leaders on May 25 for the annual Memorial Day ceremony held at the General John Logan Monument in Chicago’s Grant Park.
During the ceremony, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and CCVA Interim Director Vanessa Walters participated in the wreath-laying ceremony, paying tribute to fallen service members and reflecting on their enduring legacy of courage and sacrifice.
This year's event also marked retired Maj. Gen. John L. Borling’s 30th and final year of organizing the ceremony to ensure the nation's heroes are never forgotten. The Union League Club of Chicago will organize the 2027 Memorial Day event.
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Veterans Treatment Court
This spring, CCVA attended a Cook County Veterans Treatment Court graduation ceremony, recognizing the hard work and resilience of veterans who successfully completed the program.
Veterans Treatment Court is a specialized court program designed for veterans involved in the criminal justice system. The program connects eligible veterans with treatment, mentoring, case management and supportive services to address underlying challenges such as mental health conditions, substance use disorders and other service-related issues.
The goal is to reduce future involvement with the justice system while improving participants' overall quality of life. Veterans Treatment Courts operate throughout Cook County as part of the Circuit Court's Problem-Solving Courts network.
Graduates were celebrated for overcoming personal challenges and remaining committed to treatment while taking meaningful steps toward a brighter future. The ceremony served as a powerful reminder that second chances are possible when veterans are connected to the support they need.
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Chicago Standdown Event
On June 5, CCVA joined community partners at the annual Chicago Standdown, a one-day event dedicated to supporting veterans experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. The event brought together service providers across the region to offer critical resources, including housing assistance, healthcare enrollment, employment services, legal aid, benefits counseling, clothing, meals and other services.
At the Chicago Standdown, CCVA connected with veterans and shared available resources to ensure they have access to the support they earned.
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Blue Star Families Visit the Obama Presidential Center
In May, CCVA, along with military families from the Blue Star Families Chicago Chapter, attended a special early viewing of the Obama Presidential Center. Families explored exhibits throughout the Center, including the third floor which is dedicated to military service. The space features artifacts and memorabilia that honor the contributions and sacrifices of America's service members and veterans. The visit also included time at the Center's outdoor park spaces, where military children and families could play and connect.
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Partner Highlight: Roll Call Chicagoland
Roll Call Chicagoland is a veteran-led nonprofit dedicated to empowering veterans, service members, military spouses and military-connected individuals through networking, professional development, support and camaraderie.
Free White Sox Tickets Available for Veterans
The Cook County Clerk's Office is offering complimentary Chicago White Sox tickets to Cook County veterans, active duty service members, National Guard members and Reservists through its Military and Veterans Discount Card Program. Eligible participants can sign up for a free discount card and redeem a ticket for select 2026 White Sox home games in July, August and September.
Veterans interested in participating can visit the Cook County Clerk's Veterans Services Office website or call 312-603-5788 for more information.
Property Tax Exemptions for Cook County Veterans
Did you know qualifying veteran homeowners in Cook County can save on their property taxes? Learn about the available exemptions below:
Upcoming Events
Veterans and military families with dogs are invited to take advantage of Cook County’s free Vets and Pets vaccination and microchip clinics, a program offered by CCVA in partnership with the Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control (ARC). The next clinics are:
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July 18, 2026 at Leyden Township Westdale Park, 3045 Sandra Ave., Melrose Park, IL 60164, from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
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Aug. 29, 2026 at Bethel Church, 3500 Glenwood-Lansing Road, Lansing, IL 60438, from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Military Appreciation Day at Brookfield Zoo
CCVA is partnering with Brookfield Zoo on Oct. 17, 2026, for this year’s Military Appreciation Day at the Discovery Center. The event is a celebration honoring veterans, service members and their families and will take place from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. At Military Appreciation Day, attendees can interact with vendors and organizations offering resources for veterans and service members. Information will also be available for anyone interested in joining the military. It’s a family friendly day designed to connect the military community with valuable services while enjoying all the zoo has to offer.
Registration for the event will open in August.
Important Links for Veterans
Apply for VA health care, find out how to access services and manage your health benefits online.
Apply for a printed Veteran ID card, get your VA benefit letters and medical records and learn how to apply for a discharge upgrade.
Apply for vocational rehabilitation services, get support for your veteran-owned small business and access other career resources.
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