Since our inception, Chicago Veterans has been at the forefront of assisting and empowering veterans in their transition back to civilian life. The mission of Chicago Veterans goes beyond mere support; it aims to provide a sense of belonging, community, and opportunities for veterans to thrive.

The Chicago Veterans Ball stands as a highly anticipated event that brings together veterans, their families, and community members for a remarkable evening. This event serves as a platform to celebrate inspiring stories, honor veterans, and recognize the tremendous work and dedication of our veteran community.

This year, we are proud to recognize 23 exceptional veterans for their outstanding service to the community at our Chicago Veterans Ball. The 23 veterans selected for this award will be featured in a special edition printed magazine, which will be distributed to all attendees of our Veterans Ball, as well as announced and acknowledged during the event.

We extend an invitation to all family members, friends, and fellow veterans to nominate veterans within their community who have made remarkable contributions. Our aim is to honor veterans who not only go above and beyond for the veteran community but also for their broader local community. Nominees do not necessarily need to work within the veteran space; veterans working as teachers, social workers, police officers, chefs, or even those who are retired and actively volunteer their time are eligible. A veteran’s impact can extend to being a great mother, father, brother, sister, or a thoughtful neighbor – someone who wakes up each day with the goal of enhancing the lives of those they interact with.

The selection process to honor the 23 veterans is both comprehensive and demanding. A committee composed of veterans and community leaders meticulously reviews nominations from all across Illinois. They take into account the nominees’ impact on the community, their personal qualities, and their ongoing commitment to service.

Each honoree has a unique story of commitment to others and we want to share their stories with others. If you know a veteran, we kindly urge you to take a moment and nominate them for consideration. Within our community, numerous outstanding veterans are engaged in remarkable endeavors, and we are committed to ensuring they receive due recognition for their unwavering service to others. We are aware that many veterans possess humility and may not actively seek recognition, but their stories possess the potential to create a profound, enduring influence on others and should be told.

Every honoree has a unique story that exemplifies their resilience and dedication to making a positive difference and we want to hear their stories. If you know a veteran, please take the time to nominate them for consideration. There are many remarkable veterans in our community and we want to ensure they receive due recognition for their unwavering service to others. We understand many veterans possess humility and may not actively seek recognition, but their stories can have a profound lasting impact on other.

Please take the time to nominate a veteran here: https://chicagovets.org/23-in-2023/