With Memorial Day coming up at the end of the month, it’s a great time to think about ways to serve veterans who have so bravely served us – and to help soldiers still serving. Whether it’s giving time through volunteering or needed funds through donations, there are a number of organizations and projects for veterans and soldiers that can use your support:
The Wounded Warrior Project provides help with recovery and support for soldiers wounded in battle. There are many ways to get involved that range from making donations to giving back by volunteering your time.
Hire Heroes USA offers transition assistance and job search assistance as well as job placement services to military members and their spouses. Find out how you can help by making a contribution or helping to hire a vet.
Help rebuild the lives of veterans returning from Afghanistan and Iraq by joining with Volunteers of America and the Home Depot Foundation in building homes for vets. The Home Depot Foundation has committed $80 million over five years to ensure that every veteran has a place to call home.
If building houses isn’t for you, you can help by making a donation to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, which supports members of the Armed Forces and their families by serving returning vets suffering from traumatic brain injury and post traumatic stress.
Show you care by sending a personal thank you to a soldier still serving. Anysoldier.com provides opportunities to create and send care packages to those abroad while United We Serve connects individuals with opportunities to say thank you to veterans – and makes it easy to volunteer in your community, or to start your own project.
Staying in touch with loved ones while serving is crucial for soldiers, but the costs of calling home from Afghanistan or Iraq are incredibly high. Cell Phones for Soldiers is trying to change that, and you can help! Each week the organization donates at least 12,000 calling cards to soldiers, providing enough money on each card for an hour of conversation. Donate money – or a gently used phone – to help soldiers keep in touch during a critical time.
Looking for more ways to help? Contact your state Veterans Affairs office or Veterans Service Organization to find out about volunteer opportunities in your community.
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