As a community, we carry the profound responsibility of ensuring that our veterans receive the care, respect, and support they deserve. The men and women who have served our country have faced challenges that many of us cannot imagine, and for some, the battle continues long after they have returned home. Veteran suicide is a critical issue that demands our attention, compassion, and collective action. 



We are proud to share that Illinois Joining Forces (IJF) is the only statewide agency in Illinois to receive the VA's SSG Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program (SSG Fox SPGP). This distinction underscores our commitment to making a difference in the lives of veterans across the state and highlights the importance of our collective mission to prevent veteran suicide.

Four Ways to Help a Veteran in Crisis

The VA S.A.V.E. Training offers four ways you can act with care and compassion if you come across a Veteran who is in crisis or having thoughts of suicide. The acronym S.A.V.E. helps you remember the important steps involved in suicide prevention:  

• S - Know the Signs that indicate a Veteran might be thinking about suicide  
• A - Ask the most important question of all — “Are you thinking of killing yourself?”  
• V - Validate the Veteran’s experience  
• E - Encourage treatment and Expedite getting help 

For more on ways to help a Veteran in crisis and for additional resources on suicide prevention, click here. For immediate assistance for a Veteran in crisis dial 988, then press 1. 

Central Illinois Regional Summit

We had a wonderful day at our Central Illinois Regional Summit, held July 19th at Erin’s Pavilion in Springfield, Illinois. Our Summit brought together 50 attendees representing 18 Veteran Service Organizations from across southern Illinois. We facilitated roundtable discussions surrounding best practices, problem-solving, resources and collaboration. The session provided time for networking in support of Veterans, Service Members, and their Families. 

Soaring to New Heights Fundraising Event

Illinois Joining Forces, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, depends on the support of our grantors, donors, and sponsors to advance our mission for Illinois Service Members, Veterans, and their families. Our annual fundraising event in August, held at Bob Buford’s stunning four-story home with breathtaking 360° views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan, offered a blend of remarkable art, captivating scenery, and thrilling aviation, creating a truly unique and memorable experience. The day was further enriched by inspiring talks from Scott Kartvedt, former Commanding Officer of the Navy’s first stealth fighter squadron. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and donors, the event was a tremendous success. 

This summer, nearly 300 Veterans took part in our 'Thank You for Your Service' survey, providing invaluable insight into how they and fellow Service Members prefer to be recognized. Your voices are crucial in shaping how we express our gratitude, and this fall, we can't wait to share the results. Stay tuned to discover what we’ve learned and how you can use these insights to more meaningfully honor those who serve!