Veterans Assistance Commission of Will County

09/08/2026

Today is 988 Day—a reminder that every Veteran deserves to feel supported, valued, and heard.

At the VACWC Veteran Wellness Program, we care deeply about helping Veterans receive the support they need before, during, and after a crisis. We understand that asking for help can be difficult, which is why our team is committed to meeting Veterans with compassion, respect, and without judgment.

Our services are free and designed to support the whole Veteran through:

• Therapy coordination and connections to appropriate care
• Individualized case management
• Peer support
• Crisis support and continued follow-up
• Connections to benefits, resources, and community services

Whether a Veteran is experiencing a mental health crisis, struggling with everyday challenges, or simply needs someone in their corner, our team is here. No Veteran should ever feel like they have to navigate these challenges alone.

On 988 Day, we want Veterans and their families to know: We care about you. We are here for you. Your life matters, and reaching out is a sign of strength.

09/04/2026

Have you filed for your PACT ACT Benefits?

Did you know? If you served in the military and were exposed to burn pits, toxic substances, chemicals, radiation, or other environmental hazards, you may be eligible for VA benefits under the PACT Act. You may also be eligible to file a claim for conditions associated with TERA (Toxic Exposure Risk Activity)---even if your specific condition is not one of the conditions automatically presumed to be connected to a particular exposure.

Do not ever assume you don't qualify.

Our Veteran Service Officers can help you understand your options, determine what documentation may be needed, and assist you with the claim process.

Let us help you explore your benefits!

Contact the Veterans Assistance Commission of Will County today to schedule an appointment with an accredited Veteran Service Officer! 815-740-8389

09/01/2026

September is Su***de Prevention Month

This month, we honor the veterans we have lost to su***de, stand beside those who may be struggling, and remind every veteran in our community of one important message:

You do not have to fight your battles alone.

At the Veterans Assistance Commission of Will County, su***de prevention is more than a conversation we have in September—it is a commitment we carry with us every day.

Through our Mental Health Program, we are working to break down barriers that can keep veterans from reaching out for help. Whether that means responding during a crisis, providing mental health support, connecting a veteran with resources, offering case management, providing peer support, or simply being there when someone needs to know they are not alone, our team is committed to meeting veterans where they are.

Ending veteran su***de takes all of us.

It takes recognizing the signs.
It takes asking the difficult questions.
It takes checking on one another.
It takes making mental health care accessible.
And most importantly, it takes reminding our veterans that asking for help is a sign of strength.

Throughout September, we will continue sharing information, resources, and messages of hope as we recognize Su***de Prevention Month and continue our mission of supporting the mental health and well-being of those who served.

🎖️ One veteran lost to su***de is one too many.

08/29/2026

🇺🇸 Happy Birthday to the Marine Forces Reserve! 🇺🇸

On August 29, 1916, the Marine Corps Reserve was established with a mission that continues to this day: to provide Marines who are ready to answer the call whenever and wherever they are needed.

For more than a century, Reserve Marines have proudly balanced civilian life with the commitment to serve our nation. They are neighbors, coworkers, parents, students, and community members—who also stand ready to become Marines in service to our country.

Today, we honor the men and women of the Marine Forces Reserve for their dedication, sacrifice, courage, and unwavering commitment to the United States.

Thank you for answering the call and for always being ready to serve.

🎂 Happy Birthday, Marine Forces Reserve!

Semper Fidelis. 🇺🇸🦅🌎⚓

08/26/2026

Meet Hector, Our Veteran Wellness & Fitness Specialist!

The VAC of Will County is excited to introduce Hector Casas, our Veteran Wellness & Fitness Specialist!

Did you know the VACWC has a Veteran Wellness & Fitness Center available to eligible members of our veteran community?

Hector is here to help veterans get familiar with the fitness center, complete required orientations, safely use the equipment, and support veterans as they work toward their individual health and wellness goals.

Whether you're looking to get back into a fitness routine, stay active, or just want to learn more about what the center has to offer, we encourage you to reach out!

Contact the VACWC for more information about eligibility, membership, and scheduling an orientation.

Our goal is simple: provide veterans with another resource to stay active, connected, and healthy.

08/24/2026

Need a ride to a VA appointment or other medical appointment? The Veterans Assistance Commission of Will County is here to help!

Our Veteran Transportation Program provides transportation assistance to eligible Will County veterans, helping ensure they can get where they need to go safely and with dignity.

🇺🇸 We drive so you can focus on what matters.

📍 1300 Copperfield Ave., Joliet, IL
📞 815-740-8389
🌐 www.veteransassistancewillco.org

If you or a fellow veteran could benefit from transportation assistance, give us a call today to learn more about the program and eligibility requirements.

Transporting Veterans. Honoring Their Service. 🇺🇸

08/20/2026

Heads up, Veterans and families: a new mail scam is targeting Veterans with official-looking postcards promoting a fake "Veterans Savings Program."

The postcards claim Veterans and spouses may qualify for up to $185 a month in additional VA benefits — including CHAMPVA, TRICARE, and dental coverage — regardless of disability rating. Scammers imply a VA connection and pressure recipients into calling within five days and sharing personal information like Social Security numbers and birth dates.

VA has received reports of this scam in multiple states, including Iowa, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina.

Protect yourself: never share personal or financial info with unverified contacts, don't act on urgent unsolicited requests, and don't call the number or click any links on a suspicious postcard, email, text, or call. When in doubt, contact VA directly at 1-800-MyVA411 (698-2411). Additional resources in the comments.

Know someone who might get one of these postcards? Share this post — it could save them from becoming a target.

08/18/2026

We’re happy to help spread the word about an upcoming Veteran Resource Fair hosted by the Veterans Assistance Commission of DuPage County! 🇺🇸

Veterans and their families are encouraged to attend and connect with organizations offering valuable information, benefits, programs, and resources.

Events like these are a great opportunity to learn more about the services available to our veteran community and connect directly with the organizations providing them.

08/15/2026

08/13/2026

🍎 STORM RECOVERY FOOD GIVEAWAY 🍎

Food assistance will be available this Saturday, August 15, from noon–3:00 PM, or while supplies last at Faith Movers Church in University Park.
This drive-through food giveaway is open to all Will County residents. One box will be provided per family while supplies last.

📍 Faith Movers Church
425 W. Exchange Street
University Park

🚗 Please remain in your vehicle and follow directions when you arrive.

Please share this information with anyone who may need a little extra help following the recent storms.