Veteran Resources

The United Way of Pekin is deeply committed to supporting the brave men and women who have served our country. This page is dedicated to providing veterans with access to resources and services tailored to their unique needs. Our goal is to honor their service by ensuring they receive the support and recognition they deserve.

We collaborate with various organizations and programs that specialize in assisting veterans. These resources encompass a wide range of services, including healthcare, career transition support, educational opportunities, and assistance with benefits navigation. Additionally, we focus on connecting veterans with community support networks, offering a sense of belonging and understanding.

Veterans have given so much in service to our nation, and it is our privilege to serve them in return. We encourage veterans and their families to explore these resources, and we invite community members to join us in supporting our veterans. Together, we can provide the care, respect, and assistance our veterans need to thrive in the community they served.

The ever changing needs of our veteran population.

The demographics and specific needs of veterans from different generations reflect the diverse experiences and challenges faced by these individuals, shaped by the era of conflict in which they served. With approximately 18 World War II veterans, 250 Korean War veterans, 1,000 Vietnam War veterans, and 500 veterans from the Gulf War and post-9/11 conflicts in your area, the range of needs is broad and varied.

World War II Veterans: The remaining World War II veterans are now in their late 90s or older. Their needs are primarily related to aging, including healthcare for age-related diseases, access to long-term care facilities, and benefits assistance. Emotional support is also crucial as they reflect on their service and life experiences.

Korean War Veterans: Similar to World War II veterans, Korean War veterans, often in their late 80s and 90s, face challenges related to aging. However, they also require recognition and support for the unique psychological impacts of what has been called "The Forgotten War," including addressing any unresolved feelings of neglect or under appreciation.

Vietnam War Veterans: The needs of Vietnam War veterans, now mostly in their 70s and early 80s, are complex. Many grapple with the long-term effects of exposure to Agent Orange, PTSD, and other mental health issues. They also face physical health challenges related to aging and injuries sustained during their service. Additionally, Vietnam veterans seek acknowledgment and healing from the societal reception they received upon returning home.

Gulf War Veterans: Veterans of the Gulf War, generally in their late 40s to early 60s, experience unique health issues, often referred to as Gulf War Syndrome, which includes a range of unexplained medical symptoms. Their needs encompass comprehensive healthcare services, including treatment for chronic pain, fatigue, and mental health support.

Post-9/11 Veterans: The youngest group, post-9/11 veterans, face a distinct set of challenges, including high rates of PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and adjustment disorders. Their reintegration into civilian life often requires access to education, employment opportunities, and mental health services tailored to younger veterans who may be balancing family and career aspirations.

Addressing the needs of these diverse groups requires targeted support services that consider the historical context of their service, the specific health risks associated with each conflict, and the changing nature of warfare. Initiatives should span healthcare, psychological support, social reintegration programs, and benefits navigation to ensure all veterans receive the comprehensive care and recognition they deserve.

United Way of Pekin's Veteran Est. Population

The Disabled American Veterans…

“Every veteran is affected by service. They may face health problems, employment issues and struggles around accessing their benefits—immediately after service but also in the years to come.

Benefits and policies for veterans continue to change and become more complex from year to year. The system can be hard to navigate. It takes knowledge and persistence to understand what’s available, what’s required to file the right claims, how to manage appeals and—most importantly—how to see the process through.

The ever-changing face of the military and of service itself means that our veterans require individualized support—for wounds both visible and invisible—over their lifetime, depending on when, where and how they served.

Transitioning back to civilian life can be an especially tough time for veterans. “Finding the mission again”—creating a purposeful life through employment, service or education—is critical. Struggles in transition can cause serious problems, including depression, homelessness and increased risk of crisis. Disabled veterans facing disasters or emergencies at this point are especially vulnerable.”

Growing need for care…

Taking care of post-9/11 veterans is of paramount importance due to their increased likelihood of having service-connected disabilities, which results from their unique exposure to combat situations and the nature of modern warfare. The experiences faced by these veterans, including prolonged engagements in Iraq and Afghanistan, have led to a higher prevalence of physical injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and amputations, as well as mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Addressing their needs is not only a matter of fulfilling a national obligation to those who have served but also crucial for ensuring their successful reintegration into civilian life. By providing comprehensive healthcare, psychological support, and rehabilitation services, society can help mitigate the long-term impacts of their service-related disabilities, enhancing their quality of life and enabling them to contribute positively to their communities.

Post 9/11 Veterans with Service Connected Disabilities

Local Veteran Resources

Pekin Outreach Initiative provides meals, toiletries, showers and laundry to those experiencing homelessness. The also provide classes and seminars to provide needed skills to help individuals adapt and overcome their situation.
The Salvation Army 360 Life Center operates the Rust Transitional Center and Homeless Shelter as a safe place for those dealing with sudden or long term home insecurity in Tazewell County. They provide case management programing as part of this program.
The Pekin Park District’s Miller Center, is located across from Minerals Springs Park Pavilion. Pekin residents 50 and older can call to schedule a ride for destinations in Pekin and the surrounding areas. Medical appointments take precedence. Wheelchair transportation is available upon request. This service is made available in part through the Pekin Park District, Pekin United Way, fundraising events, and rider donations. “In-town” suggested donation is $5. “Out-of-town” suggested donation is $15. Wheelchair transport suggested donation is $30. No one is turned away for inability to pay.
Call to schedule your ride today! (309) 346-5210
Prairie State Legal Services offers free legal aid for Illinois Veterans & Military Members.
Pekin Mobile Diner: Home-delivered meal program that caters exclusively to disabled citizens of Pekin - individuals who are homebound and unable to prepare meals for themseves.
Neighborhood House, Meals on Wheels Program: Meals are delivered to eligible participants who are unable to prepare their own meal, on a 3 or 5 day schedule, at mid-day.
The Pekin Park District’s Miller Center, is located across from Minerals Springs Park Pavilion and engages adults aged 50+ with various activities, events, and select transportation services.
The Salvation Army 360 Life Center offers assistance to those facing challenges with financial costs across Tazewell County. Services are based off current funding amounts and so these can be subject to change throughout the year. *Certain documentation will apply.
Financial needs supported include:
- Water Utilities
- Sewage/Wastewater Utilities
- Rental & Mortgage Bil