Giving Back to Our Heroes
Dec 08, 2021
The winter holidays are often thought of as a time of giving, whether it be through acts of service, volunteerism, or gift giving. There are many ways in which we can give back to our community and serve others. One of our favorite things to do around the holidays is give back to those in the Armed Forces, whether they be on active duty, currently deployed, in the reserves, or veterans. Keep reading for some of our go to gifts and ways to volunteer.
Helping those that are on active duty or deployed during the holidays.
The holidays can be particularly tough for those that are deployed or on active duty during the holidays. It can also be incredibly difficult on their families. There are many different ways you can help these members of the Armed Forces and their families.
Care Packages. You can gather different items like holiday cookies, thank you cards, or anything else that would bring our soldiers comfort, and ship it overseas. The best part is you can get your kids and neighbors involved too!
Comfort their families. Being away from your family member around the holidays can be tough. If you know of a military family in your area, help them to feel at home during the holidays. You can invite them over for Christmas dinner or even bring them a meal. Sometimes something small, like comfort food, can go a long way.
Helping our veterans during the holidays.
Too often our veterans go without. What better time than during the holidays to give back to our heroes?
Time. There are veterans that are in assisted living homes with no family or friends to visit them. Simply spending time with them and listening to their story is a great way to show you care.
Donations. There are so many items to choose from when donating to our veterans. You can donate anything from cars to blankets and anything in between.
Service. You can volunteer with several great organizations (listed below) to provide a hot meal, help with a fundraiser, Adopt-a-veteran, and so much more.
Thankfully, there are so many charities out there that are dedicated to helping veterans and their families, especially during the holidays. These charities have programs that help our veterans through acts of service, or providing them with items they need like cars, homes, or other necessities. Here are some veteran-focus charities you can volunteer or give to during the holidays (MilitaryBenefits.info). (Please keep in mind that you will need to contact these organizations ahead of time to coordinate volunteering.)
- American Legion
- Cars for Veterans
- Disabled American Veteran (DAV)
- Elks Lodge
- Honor Flight
- Iraq & Afghanistan Veterans of America
- Operation Home Front
- National Coalition for Homeless Veterans
- Red Cross
- Salvation Army
- Semper Fi Fund
- Soldiers Angels
- VA Search
- VA Volunteer Services
- Veterans of Foreign Wars
- Vets Christmas Ride
- USO
One way that never fails to show our appreciation for our veterans and active-duty military members is by flying a 100% made in America, Real American Flag. Real American Flag also works tirelessly to recruit, hire, and retain veterans. In fact, we are the proud recipient of the 2021 HIRE Vets Medallion Award. There are so many ways to help and show our appreciation for veterans, active-duty military members, and their families around the holidays. How will you give back to our heroes?