Veterans Day: Ways to Give Back

Veterans Day gives Americans the opportunity to celebrate the bravery and sacrifice of all U.S veterans. It originated as “Armistice Day” on November 11th, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Congress passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance. Therefore, November 11th became a national holiday beginning in 1938. This day commemorates veterans of wars. Today, Veterans Day is a federal holiday which many cities celebrate with parades and ceremonies. In Washington, D.C., there are ceremonies throughout the city including a wreath laying at Arlington National Cemetery. This Veterans Day make a difference in the lives of former military members. For example, just thanking a veteran can go a long way, but an act of kindness means even more.

Here are some ways you can give back and appreciate the sacrifice they made:

1. Thank them: A quick thank you can go a long way or make their day. 2. Pick up the tab for Vet for their coffee or meal: This simple act of kindness can make such a positive impact. 3. Volunteer at a VA hospital: Your local VA hospital would love to have a few hours of your time or drop off books, movies or something special. 4. Show up to a Veterans Day event in your local city. Help spread the word to your community if you do know of a special event. 5. Get outside: Invite a Vet or a military family to explore a national park. Admission is free for visitors on Veterans Day. Being outside helps improve physical and mental health, boosts emotional well-being. As a result, this is a great way to celebrate the day with a veteran. 6. Donate: There is plethora of organizations across the nation that provide much-needed services for our veterans and their families. Whatever you can give, large or small, is a great tribute to our veterans. 7. If you have a business, consider a discount or special offer for veterans. 8. Write an old-fashioned letter or send a care package. Looking for something a little more personal than a text or email? Send a veteran a handwritten letter or care package with a small gift and some of their favorite snacks. 9. Visit a Vet with your pet: It is a well-known fact that animals provide emotional and physical benefits. 10. Sponsor a companion dog for veterans with PTSD: With the help of a service dog veterans report feeling safe, protected, and loved. They often return to work or go to college. Also, they can care for their families. 11. Volunteer at a PATH equine assisted therapy program: Path International Equine Services for Hero’s assists military veterans through services provided by Path International members and by providing leadership and guidance for equine assisted activities and therapies. Here is the link for more information >>> https://www.pathintl.org/resources-education/path-intl-equine-services-for-heroes In conclusion, whether you have five minutes or five hours to spare, you can make a huge difference in a veteran’s life this November 11th.