Veterans inherit physical, emotional, and personal stress from serving in the armed forces. Different issues like post-traumatic stress disorder affect their well-being. Adjusting to civilian life is challenging, and veterans can use a helping hand. Consider these four easy ways to support veterans in your community today.
Volunteer at Your Local VA Facility
Volunteer at your local Veterans Affairs (VA) facility. The facilities offer health-based services like physical therapy, orthopedics, critical care, and mental health sessions.
The centers accept volunteers for various duties like facilitating recreational activities, escorting patients to appointments, and offering companionship to veterans.
Spend Time With a Veteran
Another easy way to support veterans in your community is to spend time with them. Be a listening ear and engage with people. Some veterans experience social isolation, negatively affecting their mental and physical health. Fortunately, engaging in conversation helps!
Connect with veterans in your area and become a friendly face. Talk about their time in the service, interests, hobbies, and other appropriate topics.
Plan outings with community members and veterans to sports games, national parks, and local events. It's all about integrating veterans with communities and ensuring they're not forgotten!
Perform Chores for a Veteran in Need
Veterans may need help with household chores because of a disability, old age, or lack of financial resources. That said, perform chores or home repairs for veterans. Visit their homes and listen to their needs. Tasks like folding laundry, vacuuming floors, or replacing window curtains are simple yet effective.
For larger responsibilities, collaborate with community members to complete duties. For instance, some home repairs require multiple people and particular expertise.
Make a difference in a veteran's life by improving their home!
Show Gratitude to Veterans
Last but not least, show gratitude to veterans. Say a heartfelt “thank you” to those who served. Showing gratitude is an act of kindness that never goes out of style. You can brighten someone’s day with a simple “thank you.”
Besides verbal gratitude, consider writing letters. Deliver gratitude letters, cards, or care packages to veteran homes. This initiative is great for people of all ages. Kids can draw cards and deliver them with their parents or youth groups. It’s easy, fun, and effective!
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