Cook County Participates in Operation Green Light in Support of Local Veterans

In advance of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle announced plans to illuminate County buildings with green lights from November 6-12 as part of Operation Green Light for Veterans, a nationwide effort uniting counties in support of military veterans. The initiative, led by the National Association of Counties (NACo), raises awareness around the unique challenges faced by many veterans and the resources available at the county, state and federal levels to assist veterans and their families.

The Cook County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution supporting participation in Operation Green Light at the County’s October board proceedings. The following County facilities are participating in Operation Green Light:

- Cook County Building – 118 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60602

- Rolling Meadows Courthouse – 2121 Euclid Ave., Rolling Meadows, IL 60008

- Skokie Courthouse – 5600 Old Orchard Rd., Skokie, IL 60076

- Markham Courthouse – 16501 S. Kedzie Ave., Markham, IL 60426

- Bridgeview Courthouse – 10220 S. 76th Ave., Bridgeview, IL 60453

- Maywood Courthouse – 1500 Maybrook Dr., Maywood, IL 60153

- George N. Leighton Criminal Courthouse/Criminal Court Building – 2650 S. California Ave., Chicago, IL 60608

- Cook County Juvenile Court – 2245 W. Ogden Ave., Chicago, IL 60612

- Domestic Violence Courthouse – 555 W. Harrison St., Chicago, IL 60607

Now in its second year, Operation Green Light is an initiative to support military veterans and raise awareness about the challenges they may face. It seeks to empower and connect counties and soon-to-be new Veterans and their families through a coordinated and cohesive transition process. The initiative aims to improve relocation outcomes and reduce the stress for new veterans and their families.

Operation Green Light also provides educational opportunities for governments, businesses and individuals to learn more about military culture, suicide prevention and many other topics.

In addition to lighting County buildings, bridges and other meaningful landmarks, residents, businesses and other organizations are encouraged to participate by simply changing one light bulb to a green bulb. This can be an exterior light that neighbors and passersby see, or an interior light that sparks a conversation with friends. By shining a green light, we let our veterans know that they are seen, appreciated and supported.

Counties and residents across the country are sharing their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight. For more information on Operation Green Light, click here.