ILLINOIS WARRIOR SUMMIT BEING HELD TO ASSIST VETERANS APRIL 24

    The Illinois Warrior Summit – the largest event ever held in Chicago to assist military veterans making the transition back to home and family – is being staged Saturday, April 24, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM, at the University of Illinois at Chicago Forum, 725 West Roosevelt Road.
    The Illinois Warrior Summit, hosted by the Student Veterans of America and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, is open to all veterans and their families, as well as active duty service members. There is no admission charge and all services are being provided free of charge.
    Approximately 100 government and service organizations will be present providing information on employment, veterans benefits, health care, and community resources to assist veterans. More than 50 Chicago area employers who are actively recruiting to hire veterans are expected to attend, as well as representatives from 20 colleges and universities.
    The Department of Veterans Affairs will offer enrollment for VA health care and information on other VA benefits, including compensation and pension. Medical Center staff will be on-site to provide veterans who enroll for VA health care with the option to receive a comprehensive physical examination. Other veterans can receive free health screenings.
    Workshops will be conducted throughout the day providing information on resume-building, preparing for job interviews, the GI Bill, obtaining VA home loans and VA health benefits. On-site enrollment for unemployment benefits will also be available.
    This event offers free refreshments, massages, and raffle prizes. A kids Corner provides an array of free fun activities for veterans’ children. There will be entertainment throughout the day, including live rock bands.
    Program organizers expect over 2,000 veterans and family members to attend. “An event of this magnitude has never been done before," says Rob Malnik, Illinois State Director for the Student Veterans of America. “This is a great opportunity to welcome home all of the troops that served our country and get them the benefits and job opportunities they deserve.”
For information, log onto www.illinoiswarriorsummit.com or contact Rob Malnik at 773/414-5888, or OEF/OIF Program Manager Valerie Creedon at Jesse Brown VAMC at 312/569-6516, or Ivy Lloyd at Hines VAMC: 708/202-2076.