City of Tyler, Texas Government/Smith County and the City of Quitman/Wood County as the first recipients of he East Texas Council of Governments Texas Veteran-Friendly Community Designation. (Contributed Photo)

Smith County and the City of Tyler have been recognized as a Veteran-Friendly Community, receiving one of the first designations under a new program by the East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG).

The City of Quitman and Wood County also received the designation.

Awarded Feb. 13, this designation highlights local efforts to support veterans through resources in housing, healthcare, transportation and education. A Veteran-Friendly Community is “defined as a community that encourages and welcomes veterans into their community by providing ongoing assistance and addressing their needs in the areas of economics, housing, transportation, health care, education, and overall quality of life,” according to ETCOG.

“Being recognized as a Veteran-Friendly Community not only honors this city’s commitment to veterans but also sets a standard for others to follow,” said David Cleveland, ETCOG Executive Director in a press release. “Veterans have made immense sacrifices in service to our country, and we must ensure they receive the support and respect they deserve when they return home.”

Dr. Marilyn Young, a UT Tyler Hibbs Institute Fellow and professor of management, compiled a brief detailing initiatives that go beyond the standard to support veterans. Her research helped the Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce Veterans Committee apply for a Texas Veteran-Friendly Community designation through ETCOG.

Several organizations in Tyler play a key role in supporting veterans.

CampV coordinates resources for more than 700 veterans monthly and sponsors the annual Homeless Veterans Stand Down event. Starbrite Therapeutic Equestrian Center provides therapeutic services, while the Marine Corps League and Disabled American Veterans (DAV) offer advocacy and assistance.

The Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce said the designation underscores Tyler metro area’s “unwavering commitment to honoring and supporting veterans and their families. It recognizes the community’s collaborative efforts to provide resources, opportunities, and a welcoming environment for those who have served our nation.”

“Receiving the Texas Veteran-Friendly Community designation is a powerful testament to Tyler’s unwavering commitment to our Veterans,” said Jackie Clay-Robertson, Co-Chair of the Tyle chamber’s veterans committee. “This achievement is the result of dedicated efforts by local leaders, organizations, and community members who have worked tirelessly to ensure that Veterans are recognized, supported, and valued.”

The Veteran-Friendly Community designation includes official recognition from ETCOG, a certificate, and use of the VFC logo. ETCOG said the designation not only acknowledges Tyler’s commitment to veterans but also helps attract veterans and their families to live, work and invest in the community.

The initiative began as a pilot program in July, developed in partnership with ETCOG, the Alamo Area Council of Governments, the University of Texas at Tyler, and the University of Texas at San Antonio.

“With strong community interest, we look forward to expanding this opportunity across the region,” ETCOG said in a Facebook announcement.

The Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce Veterans Committee invites the public to join a special ceremony celebrating the milestone. An event will be held 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27 at the Rose Garden Center Lobby at 420 Rose Park Dr. in Tyler.

At the ceremony, attendees will hear remarks from local officials and community leaders, sharing insights into the importance of this designation and what it means for the region’s veterans. The event is open to the public.

ETCOG serves Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Gregg, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Smith, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood counties. For more information, visit www.etcog.org.