For more information on these individual programs and services, including basic documentation and qualification criteria, please continue reading below.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E)

The Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) program helps eligible Veterans with service-connected disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain meaningful employment. Services may include career counseling, vocational rehabilitation, education and training assistance, apprenticeships, on-the-job training, resume development, job placement, self-employment assistance, and independent living services for Veterans whose disabilities make employment difficult. VR&E counselors work one-on-one with Veterans to develop individualized employment plans based on their interests, abilities, and career goals.

Basic Eligibility:

• Generally available to Veterans with a service-connected disability who meet VA eligibility requirements
• Some transitioning Service Members may also qualify

Common Documentation Requested Later by Referrals:

• VA determines eligibility through its claims process
• No specific documentation is required before speaking with a VR&E representative

U.S. Department of Labor – Veterans' Employment and Training Service (DOL VETS)

The U.S. Department of Labor Veterans' Employment and Training Service (DOL VETS) connects Veterans, transitioning Service Members, and eligible spouses with employment opportunities, apprenticeship programs, and career development resources. Services include job search assistance, employment rights education, transition support, and referrals to local workforce agencies and employers committed to hiring Veterans. The program also administers several grants that support Veteran employment throughout the country.

Basic Eligibility:

• Veterans
• Transitioning Service Members
• Certain eligible military spouses for select programs

Common Documentation Requested Later by Referrals:

• No documentation is generally required to receive employment information or referrals
• Individual workforce programs may request proof of military service or eligibility

Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) Veteran Services

Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) Veteran Services provides Veterans with Priority of Service for employment assistance through Illinois WorkNet Centers and American Job Centers statewide. Veterans can receive career counseling, job search assistance, resume development, interview preparation, referrals to training opportunities, and connections to employers actively seeking Veteran talent. Local Veteran Employment Representatives and Disabled Veteran Outreach Program specialists provide individualized assistance based on each Veteran's needs.

Basic Eligibility:

• Veterans
• Eligible spouses may qualify for Priority of Service under certain circumstances

Common Documentation Requested Later by Referrals:

• No documentation is generally required to begin receiving employment assistance
• Some programs may request proof of Veteran status

Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership

The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership operates the public workforce system for Chicago and suburban Cook County, offering career coaching, occupational training, tuition assistance, apprenticeships, and job placement services. Veterans receive Priority of Service under federal workforce programs, allowing them expedited access to many employment and training resources. Career specialists help participants identify employment goals and connect them with available workforce opportunities.

Basic Eligibility:

• Open to job seekers residing in Chicago or suburban Cook County
• Veterans receive Priority of Service for many workforce programs

Common Documentation Requested Later by Referrals:

• No documentation is generally required for an initial inquiry
• Individual training programs may request proof of residency, income, or Veteran status

Hire Heroes USA

Hire Heroes USA is a national nonprofit organization that provides free, individualized career coaching to transitioning Service Members, Veterans, and military spouses. Services include professionally written resumes, interview preparation, LinkedIn profile optimization, networking assistance, career planning, and employer introductions designed to help participants secure meaningful civilian employment. Each client is paired with a dedicated career coach throughout the employment process.

Basic Eligibility:

• Veterans
• Transitioning Service Members
• Military spouses

Common Documentation Requested Later by Referrals:

• No documentation is generally required to enroll for services

American Corporate Partners (ACP)

American Corporate Partners (ACP) is a national nonprofit that connects Veterans and eligible military spouses with experienced corporate professionals through a free one-on-one mentoring program. Mentors provide career guidance, resume reviews, interview preparation, networking support, leadership development, and advice for career advancement. Mentorships are tailored to each participant's career goals and typically last one year.

Basic Eligibility:

• Veterans
• Active-duty Service Members approaching transition
• Military spouses (eligible programs)

Common Documentation Requested Later by Referrals:

• No documentation is generally required to begin the mentorship application

VetJobs

VetJobs is a national nonprofit employment organization dedicated to helping Veterans, transitioning Service Members, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses find civilian employment. The organization offers Veteran-focused job listings, career counseling, employer matching, hiring events, resume assistance, and employment resources through partnerships with Veteran-friendly employers nationwide. Services are provided at no cost to participants.

Basic Eligibility:

• Veterans
• Transitioning Service Members
• National Guard and Reserve members
• Military spouses

Common Documentation Requested Later by Referrals:

• No documentation is generally required to access employment resources
• Individual employers may request proof of military service during the hiring process

Metropolitan Family Services

Metropolitan Family Services is a longstanding nonprofit organization serving the Chicago region that provides workforce development, employment counseling, career readiness training, financial coaching, and supportive services for individuals and families. Veterans and low-income residents can receive assistance with career planning, job search strategies, skill development, and referrals to additional community resources. Services are designed to help participants achieve long-term economic stability and employment success.

Basic Eligibility:

• Services are generally available to residents of the Chicago metropolitan area
• Program eligibility may vary depending on the specific workforce initiative

Common Documentation Requested Later by Referrals:

• No documentation is generally required for an initial inquiry
• Individual programs may request documentation based on funding requirements or eligibility criteria

If you have further questions regarding these services, please contact our main office at 312.433.6010 and select Menu Option 4 to speak with a representative who can assist you with navigating this issue.