SUMMIT COUNTY, OHIO—In advance of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro and Councilwoman Christine Higham announced plans to illuminate county buildings green from November 4-11 as part of Operation Green Light for Veterans, a nationwide effort uniting counties in support of military veterans. This is part of an initiative between Summit County, the County Commissioners Association of Ohio, the National Association of Counties, and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers.
Now in its third year, Operation Green Light’s mission is to show support for veterans of all military conflicts, as well as raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by many veterans and their families, and the resources that are available at the county, state, and federal level to assist them. In 2023, over 300 counties participated in Operation Green Light.
“Summit County is proud of our ongoing support for local veterans and their families. At a time when we are feeling divided as a nation, we can all agree that those who risked and sacrificed their lives to protect our country and our way of life deserve our support. This week is a special opportunity for the whole community to show that gratitude for those who served this nation,” said County Executive Shapiro.
In addition to lighting county buildings, bridges, and other meaningful landmarks, residents, businesses and other organizations are encouraged to participate by simply changing one light bulb inside or outside their home to a green bulb. By shining a green light, we let our veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported, and we open up conversations about the needs of veterans and the services that support veteran communities.
“Operating Green Light is a great way to honor our veterans and a simple way to bring awareness to the challenges facing veterans and their families at home.” said Councilwoman Christine Higham. “I encourage everyone to join us in displaying a green light for our veterans and their families.”
Summit County veterans and their family members can access resources and support services through the Veterans Service Commission. The agency is located at 1060 E. Waterloo Rd in Akron and has walk-in hours Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. The agency’s phone number is 330-643-2830.
While this event is focused around the week of Veterans Day (November 4th-11th), participants are encouraged to continue shining the light year-round. Participants are encouraged to share their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.
Visit naco.org/operationgreenlight for more information.
