Veteran's Resources
Resource Navigation
Chicago and suburban Cook County residents can call 2-1-1 at any time. 2-1-1 is a free, 24/7/365 service that can help navigate resources and help in searching for the right resources according to need. 2-1-1 provides information on food, housing, utility payment assistance, transportation, health care, employment, mental health care, and more.
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Learn more about 2-1-1 by visiting their website or by dialling 2-1-1.
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No Fee Veterans City Sticker
In 2022, I sponsored an ​ordinance that allows all Veterans with a veteran designation on their Illinois state ID or driver's license to receive a No Fee Veteran City Sticker. They now join Veterans with ex-Prisoner of War, Purple-Heart Recipient, I-Served and Disabled Veteran license plates in being able to access this benefit.
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Please note, this offer is only available in person at Office of the City Clerk locations. For more information, please see the "Discount and No-Fee Sticker Programs" tab on the City Clerk's website.
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Veteran Owned Businesses
The city of Chicago Veteran Business Enterprise (VBE) certification can be awarded to small and local business that are owned and operated by veterans. To take advantage of City of Chicago veterans programs/incentives, including the 5% bid incentive, the veteran-owned business must be VBE certified by the City of Chicago. Currently, the City of Chicago has more than 200 Veteran Owned Businesses.
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I was proud to support an ordinance sponsored by my colleague Alderman Gilbert Villegas of the 36th Ward to make the veteran-owned business participation goal program permanent. Previously, this provision was a pilot program that was set to sunset in July 2026.
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Learn more about the VBE certification process by clicking here, or visit https://chicago.mwdbe.com to view all our VBE’s.​
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NEIU Veterans Services Center
On October 6, 2025, I was honored to stand with Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) leadership, faculty, students, and veterans to unveil the new Veterans Services Center at the Ronald Williams Library. This space will assist veteran and active-duty students with guidance on benefits they may be eligible for through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, as well as financial aid, and customized academic advising and networking opportunities.
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Recreational Activities
The Chicago Park District’s Veterans Program provides access and engagement to veterans and active military personnel in sports, recreation, and leisure. Their programs run year long and have many varied activities. All Park District Veterans Programs are free of charge with proof of service.
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Learn more about these programs by visiting their website or contact them at veterans@chicagoparkdistrict.com.
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