Veterans Council Clay County Florida Inc

Why does Clay need a Veterans Center?

https://www.clayveterans.com/

When the Uniform Comes Off, the Questions Begin

For many service members, transitioning out of the military—whether through separation or retirement—means stepping into the unknown. After years of structure, purpose, and community, they’re suddenly expected to navigate civilian life alone. There’s no roadmap. No team. No mission.

Veterans in Clay County are no exception.

Spouses are often left in the dark, especially when tragedy strikes. They don’t know where to turn for support, benefits, or even answers. Veterans themselves—once strong and sure—can feel lost without the sense of identity and belonging they once had. Isolation quietly takes hold. The phone stops ringing. The camaraderie fades. And for many, the silence becomes deafening.

But it doesn't have to be this way.

The Clay Veterans Center exists to change that reality. We are here—still serving—to ensure that no veteran or family member has to face life after the military alone. Whether it’s a compassionate voice on the other end of the phone, guidance through the maze of resources, or a place to simply connect and be understood, we’re building a community where veterans and their families can find belonging again.

Clay Veterans Programs:

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Clay Veterans Center: Lead Jess Polvikoski providing administrative and operations oversite.

Family Support Program: Lead Bonni Haber providing caregiver education & support groups

AuDHD AA Program: Lead Nirvana (Harley) Janette providing education & support groups

Open-Door Program: Lead Jess Polvikoski providing in person camaraderie between Veterans seeking purpose and Veterans seeking social interaction.

On-Line Connections: No Lead identified. Programs in development. Intended to provide opportunities for connection via Discord with games, support groups, meetings, conferences, veteran issues sessions, etc. similar to https://warriorgmrfoundation.org/

Can I Call You?: No Lead identified. Program in development. Intended to provide virtual camaraderie between Veterans seeking purpose and Veterans seeking social interaction.

Veteran Tech Hub: No Lead identified. Program in development. Intended to provide Veterans and family members with assistance with establishing logon's for VA.gov and other government websites, scanning assistance, notary services, and other assistance as requested. Some services are available now - please call (904) [phone redacted].

Join us and stay connected!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Where are the funds going?

A: Veterans Council Clay County Florida, Inc. is committed to raising funds to support the Clay Veterans Center’s operations and key programs. All contributions are used for the purpose identified. Undesignated funds are maintained in the Veterans Council Clay County Florida, Inc. Operational Fund, while designated gifts (e.g., Open-Door Program, VRAP, Online Connections) are used exclusively to support those programs.

Additional Suggested Q&A:

Q: What does the Clay Veterans Center do on a daily basis?

A: The center serves as a central connection point for veterans and their families—offering resource navigation, information, peer support, and a welcoming environment. We provide direct help or connect individuals with trusted partners in the community who can meet their specific needs.

Q: How can I get involved?

A: There are many ways to serve! Volunteers can assist with front desk support, outreach, community events, resource referrals, or simply be a friendly face. Whether you have a few hours a month or want to be a regular presence, we have a place for you.

Q: Is my donation tax-deductible?

A: Yes. Veterans Council Clay County Florida, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Donors will receive a receipt for their records.

Q: Can I designate my gift to a specific program?

A: Absolutely. If you want your contribution to support a specific program—such as the Open-Door Program, Veterans Vehicle Repair Assistance Program (VRAP), or Online Connections—just indicate that when giving. We honor all donor designations.

Q: What makes the Clay Veterans Center different from other organizations?

A: We are veteran-led volunteers and community-rooted. Unlike larger agencies, we offer personalized support and in-person connection in a welcoming environment. Our team understands the unique challenges veterans face and is committed to meeting them with compassion, respect, and real solutions.

Q: What are your biggest needs right now?

A: Our most urgent needs include funding for daily operations, program expansion, and volunteer support. Every donation helps keep the center open and our programs running. We also need community ambassadors to help spread the word about our mission.