Genesee County, MI — On Saturday, hundred of people came out to Flushing’s Riverview Park for the Veterans Resource Rally. The event, hosted by the Genesee County Department of Veterans Services (GCDVS), was designed to connect active military members, Veterans and their families with local, state and federal resources.

The event was held in Davison for the last two years, but organizers opted for a change of scenery in 2024.

“It’s always a challenge with changing venues, particularly after two years of being at the same location,” said GCDVS Director Derrick Britton, who recently retired from the Michigan Air National Guard. “Many Veterans I spoke to were appreciative of having the event on the other side of the county. And we were so fortunate to be blessed with a beautiful day to host the event.”

The overarching goal of the event is to increase awareness of resources available to Veterans, and in that endeavor it was a huge success.

“There are many Veterans who either don’t know or don’t want resources that they could be eligible for,” Britton said. “For both groups, I believe the key is hearing from other Veterans who have taken advantage of the resources available. There’s no better messenger for Veteran resources that other Veterans who have benefitted.”

The event is also a great opportunity for Veterans to connect and share their experiences GCDVS. Britton says that events like this one can have the impact of overcoming something that is engrained in military culture.

“We want to remind Veterans that it’s okay to ask for assistance, and we are here to serve them — you don’t have to ‘tough it out,’” Britton said.

Genesee County Commissioner Dale K. Weighill, who represents District 8 on the Board of Commissioners, also spoke at the event. The Rally featured dozens of Veteran-focused partner organizations from across the state and nation.

If you or someone you know needs veterans’ services, please contact GCDVS at 810-257-3068 or by email at v@geneseecountymi.gov.