Veteran's Day is an excellent time to get involved in your community and support our troops. Many people don't know where to start though. The Sears Imported Autos team gathered a few ideas for showing your appreciation to our military service members for all the amazing things they do.
Create Care Packages
If you want to support active duty service members, create and send them care packages. Deployments are difficult and many times our military members don't have access to simple things we take for granted. Packing a care package full of simple pleasures and a handwritten note can make a service member's week. Many organizations exist to help coordinate these packages, like AdoptaPlatoon and the American Red Cross Holidays for Heroes Program. Here are some ideas of things to include:
- Socks
- Toiletries
- Non-perishable or meltable snacks
- Games
- Stationary (like envelopes, paper, pens, etc) Note: skip the stamps, as they don't need them
Visit a Veteran's Hospital
If you want to have conversations with some of the veterans in our community, visit a veteran's hospital. You may find opportunities to visit with people who don't have families or volunteer your time to help support their healthcare.
Talk to a Veteran
Most Americans know at least one service member or veteran, if not more. Make sure you reach out to them, not just on Veteran's Day, but often. Military service is difficult, and difficulties continue far beyond the end of service. Make sure you check in with the veterans you know, and do what you can to make them feel like they're a part of your community—because they are!
Donate to Veteran-Focused Charities
There are so many amazing charities that support our troops. These charities always need more financial support, as well as more hands to help out. Even if you can't donate financially, you can volunteer at a veteran-focused charity to donate your time. You might also get to meet some of the incredible people who have fought for our country.
Veteran's Day is set aside for us to think about the people among us and abroad, who have committed to keeping our country safe. Remember the veterans in your life and community, not just on November 11th, but every day of the year. To all the veterans in our community, the Sears Imported Autos team would like to say a very heartfelt, "Thank you!"
