A group for veterans recently got approval as a new charter club. The club welcomes all veterans and anyone who wishes to honor veterans or be a part of the group.
Ken Kalscheur, president of the new club, said, “We currently have over 100 members.”
What is the goal for the club?
Kalscheur said, “We are dedicated to informing and assisting veterans and surviving spouses of the benefits that they are entitled to for their services.”
The club has established relationships with Kane and McHenry County Veteran’s Assistance Commissions. The staff of those offices are there to help get assistance with eligibility and the application process. Sun City has hosted three events in Prairie Lodge over the last seven years, where representatives from the county veteran’s offices were present. The events were well-attended.
Kalscheur said, “One of our leaders, Al Roberts, saw the need for a group for Veterans, noting the crowds at the events. Besides helping with benefits, he saw a need for other communications, sharing military experiences among themselves and with schools, and other groups. After the second event in April 2020, he started the group meeting in the basement of Heartland Bank.”
The club hopes to help get opportunities, such as the Honor Flight and Vets Roll for Sun City residents. In addition, they want to assist other veterans who are jobless, homeless, and in need of any assistance.
Kalscheur said, “Al saw a need for the Veterans to share their experiences within their service times as well as how it affects them now. He also saw a need to go out to talk to groups’ especially in the schools.”
Tom Culumber, a Sun City resident and veteran, said, “After a two-year absence for covid, the Veterans Network of Northern Illinois held an Honor Flight for about 60 veterans. I was the only Sun City person; most others were from Woodstock and other northern towns. I understand that a veterans’ group has been chartered for Sun City. If that group can do some fundraising, they could have more Sun City veterans on the flight for next August.”
Kalscheur said, “We are hosting a brunch for all Veterans and guests on Veteran’s Day, November 11, in Drendel Hall. We want to give honor especially World War II and Korean War veterans. The club will pay for those War veterans.”
Starting October 12, monthly meetings are on the second Wednesday of each month at Prairie View Lodge in the Birch Room at 9 a.m. Dues are $10. Interested persons in joining or attending the brunch may contact: Ken Kalscheur at 847-.840-3714 or akkalscheur@gmail.com
