Dear Veterans andResidents of Cook County,
As President of the Veteran Assistance Commission of Cook County (VACCC), I am humbled by the opportunity to serve our incredible Veteran community. The work we do here goes far beyond providing services—it creates a lasting impact for generations. The care we provide to Veterans extends to their families, loved ones, and the communities that surround them.
Our commitment to serving Veterans is unwavering. The services we provide will continue to improve, our reach will extend further, and the number of Veterans and their families we serve will only grow. This is not just a promise—it is our mission.
On a personal note, I have always believed in advocating for Veterans in Cook County. I never imagined, however, that I would one day be impacted by the very services we provide. After the loss of a beloved family member—a Marine Corps Veteran who fought in Vietnam—I experienced firsthand the impact of this Commission. Superintendent Elizabeth Soto and the VACCC supported my family during one of the most difficult times of our lives. This deeply personal experience reminds me that the work we do doesn’t just serve Veterans; it uplifts the people we love.
I want to emphasize the importance of registration for the Veteran Assistance Commission, which opened on January 1st and closes on February 28th this year. It is vital for Veteran Service Organizations throughout Cook County to join and represent the Veteran communities they serve. Every neighborhood, every zip code, has its own unique challenges and concerns. Representation in all parts of our city and county ensures that we address those needs effectively and equitably.
The services we provide, the advocacy we pursue, and the impact we make will continue to grow. Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive network of support for Cook County’s Veterans and their families.
With gratitude and resolve,
Frank Gutierrez
President, Veteran Assistance Commission of Cook County
