Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County
The Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County is a local unit of government that is composed of elected members, delegates, and alternates representing various Veteran Service Organizations in Cook County, Illinois. The central operational offices include a Superintendent, Deputy Superintendent and support staff dedicated to providing direct financial benefits, support, advocacy and additional services to Cook County resident Veterans and their immediate family members.
The establishment of the Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County was created pursuant to the VETERANS AND SERVICE MEMBERS 330 ILCS 45 Military Veterans Assistance Act (MVAA). The act mandates the Commission to provide responsible aid, assistance, and necessary services to the Veteran community:
"...For the just, necessary, and needed assistance and services of military veterans,
who served in the Armed Forces of the United States and whose last discharge from
the service was honorable or general under honorable conditions, to be eligible for
assistance, their families, and the families of deceased veterans with service as
described in this Section who need assistance and services...”
330 ILCS 45/2 (From Ch. 23, par. 3082 Sec. 2 (Public Act 102-0732 revisions passed 5/6/2022
Effective Date January 1, 2023
Mission Statement
The mission of the Cook County Veterans Assistance Commission (VACCC) is to honor and empower the Veterans of Cook County by providing compassionate, professional, and effective advocacy for the benefits and services they have earned through their military service.
We are dedicated to ensuring that every Veteran, and their eligible dependent has equitable access to federal, state, and local resources, including compensation, education, health care, and emergency financial assistance.
Through outreach, education, and collaboration with community partners, the VACCC strives to bridge gaps in awareness and accessibility, reaching underserved and at-risk Veteran populations across all neighborhoods of Cook County.
Guided by integrity, respect, and accountability, we stand as a trusted resource for Veterans, committed to their well-being, dignity, and successful reintegration into civilian life.
Agency Head