Kalamazoo county launches program to honor veterans & boost local business

Kalamazoo County launched a Veteran Honor Rewards program, offering discounts to veterans who file DD-214 forms. Support local heroes and businesses in one innovative initiative.

In a move that combines community support, veteran appreciation, and local economic stimulation, Kalamazoo County has unveiled an exciting new initiative. The Veteran Honor Rewards program, announced by the County Clerk/Register of Deeds Office, offers a win-win solution for both veterans and local businesses in the area.

How the program works

The Veteran Honor Rewards program encourages veterans to file their DD-214 military discharge papers with the County Clerk’s office. In return, veterans receive an Honor Rewards Card, which can be used to access exclusive discounts at participating local businesses. This innovative approach not only helps veterans safeguard their important military records but also provides them with tangible benefits in their daily lives.

Meredith Place, County Clerk/Register of Deeds, expressed her enthusiasm for the program: “We are excited to launch this program to benefit Kalamazoo County veterans and grateful to all of the business partners who have signed up to make it possible.”

Benefits for veterans and their families

The program offers more than just discounts. Encouraging veterans to file their DD-214 forms ensures that these crucial documents are preserved and easily accessible when needed. Lauren King, Veterans Service Office Supervisor, highlighted the importance of this aspect: “This document is the most important for any veteran and their families. The VSO is thrilled the Clerk’s Office is offering this incentive to register DD-214s.”

Michael Fry, Veterans Affairs Committee Chair, emphasized the program’s broader impact: “This program isn’t just for our veterans – it’s for their families too. All too often, families struggle to locate a veteran’s DD-214 to access benefits like compensation claims, survivor benefits, and even burial services.”

Community involvement and future growth

Currently, 35 local businesses are participating in the program, offering discounts on a wide range of products and services. The County Clerk’s Office is actively encouraging more businesses to join, creating a robust network of support for veterans throughout Kalamazoo County.

Veterans and businesses interested in participating in the Veteran Honor Rewards program can find more information and sign up here.

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This story was generated in part by AI and edited by The ‘Gander staff.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

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