Summary of Services
- Attends and supports conferences and events honoring veterans
- Advocates for veterans' rights, programs, and services at the local and regional level
- Offers financial assistance to veterans and their families in times of need
- Distributes food to homeless and at-risk veterans
- Facilitates access to specialized mental health and substance abuse treatment
- Operates the Fire Watch program to prevent veteran suicide across five counties
Supporting Veterans and Their Families Across St. Johns County and Beyond
The Veterans Council is a collaborative network made up of veterans' organizations, local businesses, government agencies, and non-profit partners, all working together to serve and honor those who have worn the uniform of our nation's armed forces. Their mission extends beyond recognition, focusing on tangible support and advocacy for veterans and their families across St. Johns County and beyond.
The Veterans Council provides assistance that addresses the needs of the veteran community. This includes offering affordable housing solutions, organizing food distributions for homeless veterans, providing financial assistance in times of hardship, and advocating for programs that promote long-term stability and well-being. The Council also actively engages with senior centers to ensure that aging veterans receive continued care, attention, and companionship.
Honoring the Fallen and Educating The Youth
The Veterans Council also places a strong emphasis on education and outreach, particularly among younger generations. They sponsor contests, attend lectures, and events that allow students to hear directly from veterans and learn about the sacrifices made by those who served.
Community events remain at the heart of the Council's work. The Council participates in ceremonies such as the annual wreath-laying events at the St. Augustine National Cemetery. Their ongoing support also extends to the Jacksonville National Cemetery, where they help maintain a strong presence of remembrance and recognition.
Guiding Veterans Toward Recovery and Care
The Council is also a proud participant in local gatherings such as the Veterans Day celebration at Anastasia Baptist Church. This event unites veterans, cadets, and community members in a shared spirit of gratitude. It supports cultural initiatives like film festivals through the Veterans Film Council and the annual Veterans Day Parade.
The Council's advocacy efforts led to meaningful advancements in veteran care. Under the assistance of the Veteran's council chairman Bill Dudley, Judge Howard McGillin and Judge David D. Beck, the St. Johns County Veterans Treatment Court was established to provide specialized services for veterans and active-duty servicemembers struggling with mental health challenges or substance abuse issues. This groundbreaking court program connects participants to resources, helping them find healing and stability.
Recognizing the urgent need to address veteran suicide, the Council also champions the Fire Watch program, which spans Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau, and St. Johns Counties. This initiative works to reduce suicide among veterans by fostering community support networks, raising awareness, and connecting veterans to lifesaving resources.
Serving as a Testament to Community Commitment
The Veterans Council remains an active, engaged body that adapts to the evolving needs of veterans. They meet on the last Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. to discuss current issues, share updates on ongoing initiatives, and plan future efforts. These meetings serve as both a forum for advocacy and a space for collaboration, ensuring that veterans' needs are met with compassion and action.