Clay Veterans, Inc (formerly Clay County Center for Veterans, Inc.) is organized and shall be operated exclusively for charitable purposes to promote the welfare of Veterans under section 501(c)(3) as a Public Charity in the Internal Revenue Code. Our mission is to improve the welfare of Clay County Veterans and their families.

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Board of Directors for Clay Veterans, Inc includes President Jessica Polvikoski, Vice President John Ruark, Second Vice Erick Saks, Secretary VACANT as of June 18, 2025, and Treasurer Chris Lanham. 

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​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 interation.
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 interation.

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) 658-0105.

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Why does Clay need a Veterans Center?

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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.

 

We’re working every day to improve the welfare of veterans in Clay County. But we can't do it without your help. Your support keeps the mission alive.

 

What are we working to bring to life first?

 

Clay Veterans Center – Where Community Meets Commitment

Each day, the Clay Veterans Center opens its doors to be the vital link between veterans, their families, and the support systems they need. Whether it’s answering questions, helping complete paperwork, connecting to local services, or simply offering a place to be seen and heard, our center is a hub of hope and practical support. Volunteers play a key role in our mission—serving as friendly faces, resource guides, and compassionate listeners.

 

Here, every conversation is a chance to serve.

 

The Open-Door Program at Clay Veterans Center offers a welcoming space where veterans can connect, relax, and engage with fellow service members while their caregivers take a well-deserved break. Through bookable Open-Door Hours, caregivers can schedule time for their veteran to participate in meaningful activities and community-building opportunities. When booking, caregivers can indicate if they are required to stay, if a home health professional will remain on-site for services beyond the scope of volunteers, or if the veteran will attend independently. Veterans and community members can also volunteer, fostering mentorship and camaraderie across generations.

 

The Open-Door Program is more than a service—it’s a community built on connection, care, and support. Help us keep the door open for those who served—donate today to support veterans and caregivers in our community!

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Connecting through on-line platforms. Imagine a community where Clay Veterans can stay connected, share stories, and engage in gaming and discussions—no matter where they are. By using online platforms like Discord, we create a virtual gathering space where veterans can interact in real time, enjoy gaming sessions together, and participate in meetings that strengthen camaraderie and support networks. This digital hub fosters engagement, mental well-being, and a sense of belonging, ensuring that no veteran feels disconnected. Whether for casual conversation, strategic gaming, or meaningful discussions, our online space is built for veterans, by veterans.

 

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.