Livingston County is asking residents and businesses to display green lights from Oct. 14 through Nov. 13 in support of veterans, renewing a local campaign that has spread across the country. A green porch, window or exterior light is intended to show former service members that their community recognizes them and can help them connect with support.
The county's Operation Green Light announcement says its Veteran Services office proposed the campaign to county supervisors in 2021. It now has been adopted by more than 400 counties in 44 states, according to the county, with displays at homes, businesses, schools and public buildings in the weeks surrounding Veterans Day.
A visible invitation to connect
David Terry, Livingston County's veteran services director, said the light is meant to do more than express appreciation. He hopes it starts conversations that help veterans learn what benefits and resources are available, where to seek assistance and which questions to ask.
Terry said the campaign can also help people leaving military service build a local support network. Connections with other veterans who share interests or experiences can provide a comfortable, nonclinical setting for them to talk, he said.
That transition can be especially difficult during the first year after discharge. The Veterans Health Administration has identified increased suicide risk during the move to civilian life and has emphasized connecting former service members with community resources. County officials describe the green lights as an invitation to make those connections, not a substitute for direct assistance.
The adjustment to civilian life can bring isolation and other challenges, said Anthony Gaiter, the Livingston County American Legion commander and a Marine Corps veteran. His message to veterans is that people in the community, including other veterans, understand those experiences and are ready to help.
The county encourages green lights outside homes and businesses throughout the Oct. 14-Nov. 13 period. The same display can be used at municipal buildings and other public places. County Administrator Shannon Hillier said Livingston County takes pride in the participation the initiative has drawn since it began there.
From school windows to rural porches
Terry pointed to Avon Central School as a local example. The district put green lights in the main office windows of its elementary, middle and high schools, he said. Students then looked for another way to help and developed the Avon CSD 5K for Veterans and Kids Fun Run into an annual event. The money it raises goes to local veterans with urgent needs, according to the county.
Large public displays are only one part of the campaign. Terry said he especially notices a green porch or farm light at a rural home, where a veteran passing by can see that someone made a deliberate effort to acknowledge their service.
Livingston County Veteran Services offers programs for veterans and their families returning to civilian life. Residents interested in becoming a mentor for a returning veteran can call 585-243-7960; the county's Veteran Services office has more information about available programs.
Veterans in crisis, and people concerned about them, can reach the free, confidential Veterans Crisis Line at any time by dialing 988 and pressing 1, texting 838255 or using its online chat. The service is available to veterans and their loved ones, including those not enrolled in VA health care.
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