MCC to host forum geared toward assisting veterans
Readjusting to civilian life after spending years in the armed services can be unsettling to some.
That's why a pair of groups are holding a free forum for McHenry County veterans of all ages, scheduled from 6 to 10 p.m. Oct. 13 at McHenry County College's conference center, 8900 U.S. Highway 14 in Crystal Lake.
The college, which GI Jobs magazine recently designated a military-friendly school for 2011, has 103 veterans and dependents registered at the school.
Organizers hope the event is a one-stop shop to address veterans' needs, whether they involve post-traumatic stress disorder, knowing the options available for those interested in continuing their education and even offering support to mothers with children serving in the military.
Other topics to be covered include women's veterans issues, financial aid at MCC, job assistance and health care.
State Rep. Mike Tryon will also be on hand to meet with veterans about concerns he could focus on in at the state level.
Chi Gamma, MCC's student veterans organization, and the Veterans Network Committee of Northern Illinois are planning the event.
"We're trying to make this as broad as possible so that everyone can get their questions answered and issues addressed," said Paul Wheeler, president of Chi Gamma Iota.
The forum came to fruition because many veterans in the county that the Veterans Network encountered didn't know what they are entitled to for serving, said Randy Granath, 63, the group's president.
"You've got to do these things so that the vets can talk to these people and see where they fit into the system," said Granath, a Fox River Grove resident.
Wheeler, 28, of Crystal Lake, served in the Navy from 2002 to 2008 in both Iraq and Afghanistan.
Veterans leaving the military life and returning to civilian life these days face unique challenges, Wheeler said.
"It's very difficult because you have, especially now with the economic situation ... it's a really tough time to get out and move on with your life and start a new chapter," said Wheeler, now studying for a criminal justice degree at MCC. "Opportunities for World War II vets, they aren't there for us."
As for aging veterans, many don't realize they are entitled to military health benefits, long after they leave the service, Granath said.
"They're still obligated to help you out with the cost of health care and the rest of that," said Granath, who fought in the Vietnam War.
It is estimated that roughly 24,000 veterans call McHenry County home, Granath said.