Introduction from the President, Clay Veterans, Inc.

Jessica Polvikoski, President, Clay Veterans, Inc.

First, a little history. For me, being a founding member of the nonprofit Clay Veterans, Inc. began as an idea about giving back to Clay County veterans after I retired from Camp Blanding in 2019. I personally experienced the frustration of figuring out on my own how to submit a VA claim, where to find information about VA educational benefits, and generally, searching for who was responsible to "gather up" the information I needed.

Luckily for me, VFW Post 8255 Veteran Service Officers, Harry Silvers and Chris Lanham introduced me to the Veterans Council Clay County Florida Inc. and by 2021 the Veterans Council made "Championing a Veterans Center in Clay County" a strategic goal. They set up Clay Veterans, Inc., a separate nonprofit, to manage the center and by April 2025 the Clay Veterans Center became a reality.

We've continued to refine how we serve veterans and have recently agreed on an improved strategy:

Clay Veterans, Inc. Strategic Plan 2025 - 2030

Vison A thriving veteran community where every veteran and their family can access support services, find camaraderie, and continue serving others — all from a dedicated, stand-alone facility with space for programs, events, and community gatherings.

Strategic Priorities

• Operate and Strengthen the Veterans Center

• Build Membership Value Through Connection and Purpose

• Expand Programs and Participation

• Grow Organizational Capacity and Sustainability

• Secure a Stand-Alone Facility with Grounds

For further exploration, download our Strategic Plan.

STAY TUNED - MORE TO FOLLOW!