THE FOLLOWING IS A VETERANS ASSISTANCE COMMISSION RELEASE
Danville, IL — The Veterans Assistance Commission of Vermilion County (VACVC) is making significant strides to better serve local veterans through strengthened leadership, improved processes, and a renewed commitment to accessibility and care.
Over the past several months, the organization has undergone key structural and operational improvements aimed at ensuring veterans in Vermilion County receive the assistance, respect, and customer service they deserve.
New Leadership and Governance
The VACVC has welcomed new leadership to guide the organization forward:
• Interim Superintendent: Brandun Schweizer, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran
• Assistant Superintendent: Sabrina Kelley, U.S. Army Veteran
At the March 2026 Annual Meeting, the following officers were elected:
• Board President: Mickensy Ellis-White
• Vice President: Frank Hoskins
• Secretary: Gary Miller
• Sergeant at Arms: Matt Long
Additional leadership includes Board Member Richard (Dick) Taylor and County Board Liaison Eric Luttrell.
Board President Mickensy Ellis-White is an Army Reserve veteran who served eight years as a Behavioral Health Specialist, including deployment during Operation Iraqi Freedom. She now serves the community as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, bringing both clinical expertise and lived experience to her role.
Interim Superintendent Brandun Schweizer and State Representative continues his service to fellow veterans by helping them navigate and access the benefits they have earned.
Assistant Superintendent Sabrina Kelley, a seven-year Army veteran, brings a strong record of service both in the military and the community. Her involvement includes
leadership roles in local and national organizations, as well as ongoing volunteer work throughout Vermilion County.
Key Organizational Achievements
Since restructuring, the VACVC has made measurable progress in several areas:
• Accreditation Efforts: Initiated steps toward accreditation through the Illinois Association of County Veterans Assistance Commissions (IACVAC).
• Policy Improvements: Implemented a new Emergency Financial Assistance policy and streamlined application process to maximize service delivery within budget constraints. The policy is publicly available at: https://www.vercounty.org/veterans-assistance/
• Increased Accessibility: Established consistent office hours for both walk-ins and scheduled appointments.
• Professional Development:
o Completion of Open Meetings Act training
o Enrollment in FOIA training
o Completion of Basic Benefits training toward Veterans Service Officer (VSO) accreditation
o Application submitted for national accreditation through NACVSO, which will enable the office to assist veterans with disability claims upon approval
• Community Outreach: Distributed printed resources to key community partners, including Post 210, Danville Rescue Mission, Danville VA, and Accolades Nursing Home.
2026 Impact to Date
• Veterans Served: 15 (with additional applications in progress)
• Financial Assistance Provided (Year-to-Date): $11,123.59
Looking Ahead
The VACVC remains focused on expanding services, strengthening partnerships, and increasing its capacity to meet the needs of veterans across Vermilion County.
“The Veterans Assistance Commission of Vermilion County exists to stand beside the veterans who stood for us, making sure they receive the care and assistance they have earned. With strong leadership, dedication, and revitalized energy from Chairman Mickensy Ellis-White, Administrative Assistant Sabrina Kelley, and new members joining the board, the future of the VAC in Vermilion County is incredibly bright.” — Brandun Schweizer, Interim Superintendent
