To: Charles Winfrey, Human Services Committee Chairperson
From: Derrick Britton, Director of Veterans Services
title
RE: Approval of the 2026 Veterans Resource Rally
recommendation
BOARD ACTION REQUESTED:
Approval of 2026 Veterans Resource Rally
BACKGROUND:
Genesee County Department of Veterans Services has hosted a veteran resource fair for the past 5 years.
DISCUSSION:
The Veterans Resource Rally is designed to connect veterans, service members, and their families with local, state, and federal resources that support their well-being, career development, education, health, and overall quality of life. The fair creates a one-stop space to access services, ask questions, and build meaningful connections with organizations committed to serving those who have served. This year’s rally is being planned for 9/12 at Elms Park, Swartz Creek.
IMPACT ON HUMAN RESOURCES:
None.
IMPACT ON BUDGET:
The Veterans Resource Rally has been budgeted under GL Number 2930-689.00-900.005 “Community Relations.”
IMPACT ON FACILITIES:
None.
IMPACT ON TECHNOLOGY:
None.
CONFORMITY TO COUNTY PRIORITIES:
Inclusive, Collaborative Culture: The Veteran Resource Rally helps to connect veterans with county resources other than those offered through our department. It focuses on the whole veteran for education, housing, transportation, peer support, health care and other necessities. Community and Economic Growth: Utilizing millage funds for this purpose helps to strengthen the veteran community by promoting resources that help to maximize veteran benefits flowing into the county. This helps to support businesses, reduce strain on emergency services, and stabilize families.
resolution
TO THE HONORABLE CHAIRPERSON AND MEMBERS OF THE GENESEE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, GENESEE COUNTY, MICHIGAN
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:
WHEREAS, Genesee County recognizes and honors the service, sacrifice, and dedication of veterans and their families; and
WHEREAS, many veterans face challenges related to healthcare, mental health, housing, employment, education, and access to benefits; and
WHEREAS, the Genesee County Veterans Resource Rally provides an opportunity to connect veterans, service members, and their families with local, state, federal, nonprofit, and community-based resources; and
WHEREAS, hosting the Genesee County Veterans Resource Rally promotes collaboration among service providers and increases awareness of available programs and services; and
WHEREAS, Genesee County is committed to supporting initiatives that enhance the well-being, stability, and quality of life of veterans residing within Genesee County.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by this Board of County Commissioners of Genesee County, Michigan, that:
1. The Board hereby supports the hosting of the Genesee County Veterans Resource Rally to be held on or about September 12, 2026, at Elms Park in Swartz Creek, MI.
2. The purpose of the Veterans Resource Rally shall be to provide veterans, service members, and their families with information, resources, and direct access to services related to healthcare, mental health, housing, employment, education, and benefits.
3. County departments are authorized to coordinate, as appropriate and within available resources, with veterans service organizations, nonprofit agencies, governmental partners, and community stakeholders to support the planning and execution of the event.
4. The County encourages broad community participation and outreach to ensure veterans are aware of and able to attend the Veterans Resource Rally.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution shall take effect immediately upon adoption.