With one call, Illinois Joining Forces empowers friends and family to link veterans to life-saving resources
As Veterans Day approaches and the holiday season nears, Illinois Joining Forces (IJF) is relaunching Operation Connect-A-Vet, a program designed to link veterans, their families, and essential services. With the veteran population in Illinois growing, so does the need for targeted support that addresses both immediate needs and long-term well-being.
“We recognize the incredible strength of veterans, but even the strongest among us benefit from support,” said Erica Borggren, Board Chairwoman of Illinois Joining Forces. “As a family member or friend, you can play a vital role in connecting veterans to the resources that can make a difference. This Veterans Day, let’s honor their service by standing alongside them and ensuring they have access to the support they’ve earned.”
Illinois is home to 537,000 veterans, including 49,000 women. At least 700 veterans are homeless, and 7% live below the poverty line on any given day. In 2021, 6,392 veterans across the U.S. lost their lives to suicide, according to the 2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report. These numbers highlight the urgent need for accessible support, ranging from housing and health services to financial assistance and job opportunities, all of which can help prevent suicide by addressing root causes of distress.
“Veterans don’t always ask for help, and that’s why we must offer support proactively,” said Brenda Osuch, IJF Executive Director. “With Operation Connect-A-Vet, family members and friends have a straightforward way to connect veterans with the essential services they need. This program helps veterans navigate housing, employment, financial assistance, and benefits, preventing serious matters before they happen.”
Accessing Operation Connect-A-Vet is simple:
- Reach Out: Call a veteran in your life and ask them how they’re doing. A simple conversation can be a meaningful gesture of appreciation.
- Submit a Connect-A-Vet Request: If you believe a veteran needs more support, submit a request by calling 1-833-INFO IJF (463-6453), emailing callcenter@illinoisjoiningforces.org, or using the Connect-A-Vet form on www.illinoisjoiningforces.org.
- Identify Services: Our dedicated team members are skilled at connecting veterans with housing, food, employment, mental health services, and other critical needs.
This campaign runs from November through December, a time when many veterans face increased isolation and challenges. Operation Connect-A-Vet ensures that veterans and their families do not have to navigate these challenges alone. For more information, visit www.illinoisjoiningforces.org.
About Illinois Joining Forces:
Illinois Joining Forces (IJF) is a non-profit organization in Illinois that collaborates with a statewide network of providers to connect service members, veterans, and their families with the resources they need, precisely when and where they need them.
***Courtesy of Illinois Joining Forces***
