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1 <br /> ORANGE COUNTY <br /> BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS <br /> ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT <br /> Meeting Date: November 2, 2023 <br /> Action Agenda <br /> Item No. 8-h <br /> SUBJECT: Resolution Supporting Operation Green Light for Veterans <br /> DEPARTMENT: County Commissioners <br /> ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: <br /> Resolution Jamezetta Bedford, BOCC Chair, (919) <br /> 245-2130 <br /> Laura Jensen, (919) 245-2130 <br /> PURPOSE: To approve a resolution expressing support for Operation Green Light for veterans. <br /> BACKGROUND: Operation Green Light is a national collaborative initiative of the National <br /> Association of Counties (NACo), supported by the North Carolina Association of County <br /> Commissioners (NCACC), to support military veterans, as well as raise awareness about the <br /> unique challenges faced by many veterans and the resources available to assist them and their <br /> families. Approximately 200,000 members transition out of the armed services each year. In the <br /> period following separation from the military, service members face the challenge of transitioning <br /> to a post-military civilian life. Tragically, evidence suggests that transitioning veterans are at higher <br /> risk for suicide, yet they often do not receive adequate support and resources. Veteran suicides <br /> have claimed over 30,000 lives since 2001 alone — four times more than the number of U.S. <br /> military personnel who died in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan. Veterans make up roughly 11% <br /> of adults experiencing homelessness. Of that group, 70% of homeless veterans also experience <br /> substance abuse, and 50% live with mental illnesses like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). <br /> In 2019, 61% (or 11.7 million) veterans were over the age of 65. <br /> Beginning November 6th through the 12th, county buildings across the nation will be illuminated <br /> green, letting veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported. November 11th is <br /> Veterans Day. Individuals and businesses are also encouraged to change one light bulb in the <br /> entryway of your house or business to a green bulb. <br /> FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no additional financial impact associated with this item. <br /> SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: There are no Orange County Social Justice Goals applicable to this <br /> item: <br /> ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: There is no Orange County Environmental Responsibility Goal <br /> impact associated with this item. <br /> RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends the Board approve the attached resolution <br /> and authorize the Chair to sign the resolution. <br />