For 17 years, Goodwill of Central Illinois has been celebrating and giving back to local veterans with Stand Down for Veterans. This community-based event provides winter clothing, supplies, food and hygiene items, but that’s just the beginning. Local service agencies gather to let our veterans know what is available to them throughout Central Illinois. The focus is on support. From assistance with bills, housing and health to obtaining veterans’ benefits, it’s all accessible in one place.
“We’re doing more than providing supplies and services for our veterans; we’re honoring them,” said Goodwill of Central Illinois’ President and CEO Kent Kramer. “Events like Stand Down keep our veterans on everyone’s minds, making sure no one forgets their sacrifices.”
The event serves to provide our veterans with much needed necessities, but more importantly, lets them know how many services they have at their disposal. “I wasn’t aware of all the benefits veterans get,” said Sam, an Army veteran attending his second Stand Down.
While Stand Down has a heavy focus on supplies and services, there is another that means even more - comradery. According to Ronald, a veteran attending Stand Down, “I come to meet all the other veterans…people that have something in common.”
Stand Down’s companion event is Goodwill’s Reception of Honor. Together the two events make up Patriot Weekend. The ceremony is an opportunity to present awards to, not only veterans, but the people and organizations that support them.
The categories include veteran, military, organization and citizen patriot awards. Nominated by their peers and the public, each winner exemplifies what it means to be a patriot. Recipients beam with pride as they accept their awards. They support our veterans out of patriotism, but the recognition is something well deserved.
Patriot Weekend is truly an event that resonates with everyone. It’s about working together, offering a hand up and most importantly, saying thank you.
To see additional photos from the event, follow this link, Stand Down 2025 Archives - Goodwill of Central IL
To find out more about Goodwill of Central Illinois’ veterans services visit goodwillpeo.org.