Nine meaningful ways to honor veterans

Veterans Day is celebrated on November 11 and falls on a Monday this year. 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) provides simple step-by-step instructions and a wish list for the troops. If your group is crafty, you can make decorated pillowcases or paracord lanyards that will be sent in the care packages. Handwritten letters and photos are also appreciated.

2. Attend a Veterans Day service at a church, American Legion post or community parade. Your presence is appreciated by those who served. To find something near you, just Google “Veterans Day event near me.” If you don’t find one, consider creating one yourself by inviting local veterans to speak at your business or school.

3. Support a veteran-owned business. Look for storefronts and online stores that proudly display a Veteran Owned emblem. A simple search on veteranownedbusiness.com will give you a list of all the stores and restaurants in your state and county. If you’re a small business owner yourself, consider a veterans discount.

4. Participate in a fundraising event to support veterans.
While every community is different, there are events such as 5K runs, golf outings and clinics, bake sales or concerts. Contact your local American Legion, VFW or your state’s department of veterans services for events near you.

5. Participate in cleaning up a military cemetery or decorating flags. These events usually take place on Memorial Day, Veterans Day and around the winter holidays. Contact your local military cemeteries, American Legion or scout troops for dates and times in your area.

6. Buy a veteran a coffee or lunch when you see them. Many veterans are easily recognized by the proud display of their status on hats, shirts and car stickers. If you see one in line at coffee shops or restaurants, 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 simple and can go a long way, each office has a list of items for which donations are accepted, including clothing, magazines, coffee and cookies.

8. Help a local veteran who lives alone. Offer meals, yard work, or a ride to the store or his doctor’s appointment. It is 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 see how much their talents contribute.

9. Use your talent to brighten the day at a Veterans Home. Just like residential care centers, veterans 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.