Salt Lake County is set to participate in a nationwide initiative called Operation Green Light for Veterans. From November 4 through November 11, iconic county buildings, including the County Government Center at 2001 State Street and the County Jail on 3415 S 900 W, will glow in green, the color of hope and renewal, acknowledging Veterans and their families' service and sacrifices. This initiative, organized by the National Association of Counties (NACo), is an invitation to the public to join in by simply changing a light bulb in their entryway to green as a symbol of appreciation for veterans.
According to Salt Lake County, in addition to lighting up landmarks, Salt Lake County provides considerable support to Veterans through various services. Throughout November, Veterans are eligible for waived pet adoption fees at Salt Lake County Animal Services. Special discounts and offers are also available at the Clark Planetarium, where Veterans receive free tickets on Veterans Day and family members can purchase discounted tickets at $5 each with valid identification.
The engagement with the Veterans community is demonstrated further with a collaboration of court services specifically designed to support Veterans charged with criminal offenses. Stakeholders including the Third District Court, Salt Lake County District Attorney's Office, and several other justice and legal bodies work together to offer treatment and support, using a therapeutic justice approach through the Veterans Treatment Court. The Salt Lake County Health Department also steps up as it prioritizes military families for grant programs related to Maternal and Child Health.
Beyond these dates marked by Operation Green Light, long-term programs such as the Aging and Adult Services partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for in-home services and the Cell Phones for Soldiers initiative add to the county's ongoing support. Starting in December and running through January, the latter program accepts used cell phones and converts them into calling cards for active-duty service members. It is not only the programs but also the integration of Veterans into the county workforce and volunteering opportunities that punctuate Salt Lake County's commitment to those who have served.
Residents and businesses alike are encouraged to partake in #OperationGreenLight for Veterans, amplifying the gesture by lighting their own spaces green. Information on how to get involved, details on adaptive programs, and other services available to Veterans can be found by visiting Salt Lake County's webpage on the initiative.
