Jefferson County proclaims November 2025 as Veterans Appreciation Month, highlights services

The Jefferson County Board of Commissioners on Nov. 4 declared November 2025 as Veterans Appreciation Month, urging residents to recognize the service and sacrifices of local veterans and directing attention to county support programs.

Commissioner Kerr said the county must both honor veterans and address challenges many face after service, including mental‑health issues, homelessness and involvement with the justice system. The county pointed to national data and local services while encouraging veterans and families to use county resources.

Human Services Director Mary Berg said Jefferson County’s veteran services team handled more than 17,400 veteran contacts in 2024 and submitted over 1,100 service‑related claims for benefits such as pensions, health care and burial assistance. Berg said the team has made more than 9,600 contacts so far in 2025 despite staffing shortages and has used community‑solutions data recognition to generate a near real‑time list that currently identifies about 20 veterans who may be experiencing homelessness.

The board named local resources for veterans, including the Jefferson County Veteran Services Office and mental‑health support through the Jefferson Center, and directed residents seeking assistance to jeffco.us/veterans. Commissioners said the proclamation and planned month‑long social media outreach are intended to increase awareness of benefits, treatment courts, employment programs and housing supports.

The board adopted the proclamation during its morning session with unanimous support.