The mission of Heart of Illinois Chapter is to benefit the members of the uniformed services, their families and survivors, and to advocate for a strong national defense, while providing support to the community and programs to grow our members.

In order to continue these great programs and activities we need great members, that’s where you come in. We still meet at the Lariat Steakhouse 2232 W Glen Ave Peoria on the third Tuesday of the month except June, July, August and December.  We have added the ability to join Chapter meetings using ZOOM if you cannot attend in person. The Camaraderie before the meeting is vibrant and we all learn from each other during our meetings.  To join our Chapter, Please reply to our Chapter president  david.zabinski@comcast.net

Our members have been involved in such endeavors as “Tee it up for the Troops”, Honor Flights, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, ROTC, JROTC, Veterans Affairs, and others.  In addition, our programs range from current affairs such as Ukraine vs Russia, critical military impacts such as Tricare changes, “Planning for Military Spousal Benefits” and military historical learnings. We are always looking for other ways to support the military in our Chapter region.

Of course, our reason for existence is to influence legislation that affects the military, especially retirees, and there is much of that floating around these days – such as 2023 Tricare changes. And we track what affects Active and Reserve/Guard as well. With so little military experience in our legislature these days, they need our voice.

Future Planned Programs:  No meetings June, July, August.  September is Peoria Veterans Assistance Commission - Mike Grow

Chapter’s 21 May 2024 program is Jewish Federation of Peoria “Yom Ha’atzmaut”, Israel Independence Day Host: Sue Katz, Director, Jewish Federation of Peoria.  Program featuring Retired IDF Officers, Orin Lavi, and David Vaknin, plus Noa Tene, a survivor of the 7 Oct invasion.  Meeting time 5:30pm and location is Anshai Emeth Jewish Synagogue, 5614 N. University St., Peoria, IL 61614.