This program formally recognizes communities whose priorities and efforts have provided a Veteran-Friendly Community within our region.
Welcome to the Veteran-Friendly Community Designation Program, an initiative by the East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) and partnering agencies dedicated to honoring and recognizing cities that go above and beyond in their commitment to supporting our nation's veterans. This program is designed to acknowledge the efforts of communities that have created an environment where veterans and their families can thrive.
1.4M
Veterans live in Texas
6.20%
of the adult civilian population in Texas are considered Veterans
7.10%
of Veterans earn below the poverty line
4%
of Veterans are unemployed
Veterans have made immense sacrifices in service to our country, and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the support and respect they deserve when they return home. A Veteran-Friendly Community designation signals that your city prioritizes the needs of veterans, offering them access to resources, services, and opportunities that enhance their quality of life.
Being recognized as a Veteran-Friendly Community not only honors your city's commitment to veterans but also sets a standard for others to follow. It can boost local pride, attract new residents and businesses, and enhance the overall sense of community.
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Utilize this drop down menu to find out more about program requirements, eligibility, and how to apply!
The requesting organization is expected to meet the following requirements:
Evidence of Community Support including:
A Community Profile providing information that is important and useful to veterans and other individuals seeking to relocate including community demographics, economics, housing, health care, and other community services.
A Working or Existing Plan including the following:
An Initial and Annual Self-Assessment that objectively identifies deficits in community resources or services that may be addressed by a community development strategy.
To be considered for designation as a “Veteran-Friendly Community,” a community must be an incorporated city, located within the East Texas region and comply with the certification standards and other requirements as specified in the certification plan.
This joint program is a collaboration of the East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG), the Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG), the University of Texas at Tyler, and the University of Texas at San Antonio.
Prospective applicants may download our application packet online. If the prospective applicant elects to seek a designation, the applicant will complete the application form and submit it to ETCOG, along with a letter of authorization and support from the governing body of the applicant community.
There is no application fee or certification fee for this program.
There is no pre-certification consultation for this program.
Applications are due by 5 PM on November 29, 2024. To apply, download the application linked below, and complete the form fields.
Submit your application and associated documentation to our Special Projects Director by uploading them at the drop link provided.
A review committee will review and score applications. ETCOG will notify awarded applicants on January 2, 2025.
Special Projects Director
David Scott, Ph.D.
David.Scott@etcog.org
903-218-6489
3800 Stone Road
Kilgore, Texas 75662
903-218-6400
Equal Opportunity Employer/Program
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Deaf, hard-of-hearing or speech-impaired customers may contact Relay Texas: 800-735-2989 (TTY) and 711 (Voice). Equal opportunity is the law. Equal opportunity notice in English and Spanish