Veterans Day is observed on November 11th, and this year, it falls on a Monday. Make it a meaningful three-day weekend by honoring our Veterans in a way that shows how much you appreciate their service.
1. Host a care package drive to send to Operation Gratitude. This is a great project for scouts, churches, businesses, and schools. Their website (OperationGratitude.com) offers easy step-by-step instructions as well as a wish list for the troops. If your group is crafty, you can make decorated pillowcases or paracord lanyards sent in the care packages. Handwritten letters and pictures are also appreciated.
2. Attend a Veterans Day service at a church, American Legion post, or community parade. Your presence is valued by those who served. To find something near you, simply Google “Veteran’s Day event near me.” If you don’t find any, consider creating your own by inviting local veterans to speak at your place of business or school.
3. Support a Veteran-owned business. Look for storefronts and online stores that proudly display a Veteran Owned decal. A simple search at veteranownedbusiness.com will give you a list of all stores and restaurants in your state and county. If you are a small business owner yourself, consider a discount for customers who are veterans.
4. Participate in a fundraising event that supports Veterans.
While every community is different, you will find events like 5K runs, golf outings and clinics, bake sales, or concerts. Reach out to your local American Legion, VFW, or your state veterans services department for events near you.
5. Participate in a military cemetery cleanup or flag decoration. These events usually take place on Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and near the winter holidays. Contact your local military cemeteries, American Legion, or scout troops for dates and times in your area.
6. Buy a coffee or lunch for a Veteran when you see them. Many Veterans are easy to spot by the proud display of their status on hats, shirts, and car decals. When you see one in line at coffee shops or restaurants, be sure to thank them for their service by offering to buy their meal.
7. Donate to a Veterans Home or Hospital. Find a local Veterans hospital by searching the Veterans Affairs website (va.gov). While a monetary donation is easy and can go a long way, each office has a list of items they accept donations for including clothing, magazines, coffee, and cookies.
8. Lend a hand to a local Veteran who lives alone. Offer meals, yard work, or a ride to the store or his doctor’s appointment. It’s also important to make them feel like they are a valued part of the community. Invite them to dinner and get to know them. You may be surprised to hear their stories and find their talents to be a great contribution.
9. Use your talent to brighten the day for a Veteran’s Home. Just like assisted living homes, veteran homes are always looking for volunteers to entertain their residents. If you are a singer, musician, art or dance therapist, yoga instructor, or pet therapy volunteer, contact your local VA Home and ask how you can help.
