Exhibitors
The list of exhibitors is still growing. At this time the list includes:
- The American Legion: The mission of The American Legion's Be The One initiative is to reduce the rate of veteran suicide. We're actively working on lessening the stigma associated with mental health treatment and empowering everyone to take appropriate action when a veteran or service member may be at risk – one life at a time.
- The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) actively works to combat veteran suicide through various initiatives focused on awareness, prevention, and support. They advocate for increased funding for VA and DOD programs, promote access to mental health services, and encourage open conversations about mental health to reduce stigma. The VFW also partners with organizations like Give an Hour to provide free mental health services to veterans and their families.
- DeKalb County Veterans Assistance Commission (DCVAC): a County Government Agency that is operated by and for Veterans. The Commission provides services and financial aid to military Veterans and their families who reside in DeKalb County and qualify for and/or need assistance. The Financial Assistance Program is designed to help Veterans and their families who are in need of basic shelter assistance. A veteran peer support group meets monthly at the site of the DCVAC.
- Northwestern Medicine Ben Gordon Center: Provision of mental health counseling and substance abuse treatment services to the DeKalb County area. For people experiencing overwhelming life circumstances, mental health or substance use issues, Northwestern Medicine Ben Gordon Center provides a space called "The Living Room" for people to address crises as an alternative to going to an emergency department. The Living Room is open to any DeKalb County resident age 18 or older, they do not need to be a registered
client of Ben Gordon Center, No appointment needed, and no cost. An example of the Living Room will be at the walk in a separate tent. - BraveHearts: They "exist to bring hope, joy and unlimited possibilities through the healing power of the horse. Through our programs, we connect horses with people as a catalyst for wellness. Everyone has the opportunity to discover healing horsemanship at BraveHearts. We serve military veterans, veterans’ families, children and adults. All veterans and family members are served at no charge."
- K9s for Veterans: Their mission is to help veterans with post traumatic stress disorder transition back to civilian life once their military service has ended with the help of trained service dogs. They are committed to educating the public about the plight of veterans with PTSD and streamlining the process for them to get service dogs, so they get the help they need... Before it’s too late.
- Hines VA Homelessness Program: They help Veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless due to financial hardship, unemployment, addiction, depression, or transition from jail. Help with Immediate food and shelter, including both transitional and permanent housing, Job training, life skills development, and education, Support with justice system navigation and community re-entry from jail, Financial support to prevent homelessness, Treatment for addiction and depression, Health and dental care.
- Kishwaukee Special Recreation Association: Proudly serves those that served our country by bringing them recreational events that allow them to find their fun in a safe environment surrounded by people who understand.
- Folds of Honor: Provides life-changing scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen or disabled military.
....and more to come!
