Creation of a Contra Costa County Veterans Advisory Commission
Initiative Overview
We are working to establish a Veteran’s affairs commission in Contra Costa county, which is currently the only county in the Bay Area without such a committee. The Veterans Advisory Commission is authorized by Cal. Mil. & Vet Code – 975, Section 975. Added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 638, Sec. 1. States the board of supervisors of any county may create and appoint members to a veterans’ affairs commission either as an independent agency or in conjunction with a California National Guard members’ commission or a veterans’ memorial commission, or in any combination of these commissions.
Status
Phase: Gathering support at the county level
Stakeholders
Contra Costa County
Veteran’s Accession House
Documents
Need
There are approximately 55,000 veterans living within Contra Costa County, with the greatest percentage residing in Central County. There are over a dozen Veterans Service Organizations operating in Contra Costa County, each operating in and represents the interest of their area of the County. There are many issues facing veteran and veterans’ families, including housing, employment, education, health and social services. Many veteran interests and needs go underrepresented when their messaging is fragmented across City and County offices. For most veterans, existing service programs and offices are unknow and or inaccessible to them. Too many veterans and family members, challenged by real life demands, go without having many of their service needs met. As a collective body, a Veterans Advisory Commission composed of veteran and veteran service providers could best identify and voice the needs of the veteran community to the County and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Objective
The Commission will provide the County’s veterans with a forum to address identified issues important to the health, welfare and well-being of fellow veterans, and families. Commission findings and recommendations will be presented to the Board of Supervisors and local Department of Veterans Affairs for evaluation and action. The Commission will collaborate with all Veterans’ organizations and strive to impact benefits and services administered at the County, State and Federal level.
More Info
The Contra Costa County Veterans Advisory Commission is dedicated to advocate for the well-being, rights, and needs of veterans and their families. To serve as a bridge between the County’s veterans, their families, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, and the County Board of Supervisors. We strive to empower veterans by ensuring access to comprehensive services, resources, and support systems that honor their sacrifices and contributions. To foster strong community bonds, and collaborations to enhance the quality of life for those who have served our nation.
Our vision is to create a community where veterans and their families are supported, respected and valued. We aim to be a leading advocate for veterans’ rights; promoting benefits, services and resources for all who need assistance. Through collaboration, education, and outreach, we envision a future where Contra Costa County is recognized as a model County, recognized for its commitment to the health, care, well-being, and success of its veteran population and their loved ones.
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