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Wayne County veterans office reports jump in calls and cases in first year
Summary
Veterans Affairs Director Frank Araujo told commissioners Feb. 12 that the county office has seen call volume and new cases increase substantially since his arrival, and he said the office aims to reach thousands of veterans not yet served.
Wayne County Commissioners on Feb. 12 heard an annual report from Veterans Affairs Director Frank Araujo detailing a sharp increase in contacts and cases since he took the post.
Araujo told the commissioners that prior to his arrival the office received 146 calls; in the first six months after he started the office received 460 calls. He said the office opened 41 new cases in 2024 and 109 in 2025, and that Wayne County has about 4,000 veterans, roughly 1,000 of whom are currently being served. "One of my goals is to reach the other 3,000 veterans to make them aware of their services," Araujo said.
Commissioners praised Araujo for outreach and program growth. Chairman Brian W. Smith said he was "extremely proud" of what Araujo has done; Commissioner Jocelyn Cramer noted his passion and dedication; and Commissioner James Shook described him as "a breath of fresh air." The Chief Clerk also complimented Araujo on expanding awareness of the office among veterans.
Araujo thanked the board and said he has felt welcomed since he began, adding that the increase in walk-in and call volume reflects greater community awareness. The report did not identify a specific timeline or staffing plan to reach the veterans not currently served; commissioners offered continued support as the office expands outreach efforts.
The board took no separate action beyond recognition and receiving the report.
