This Veterans Day, November 11, honor the veterans in your family, your life, and your community. These brave men and women have served our country and fought for the freedoms we hold dear and often take for granted. Acknowledging their service, dedication, and bravery is important — especially in a time when more and more veterans need our support and help.
Here are a few things you can do this Veterans Day.
Say thank you. The simplest thing we can do is thank veterans — not just on Veterans Day, but every day. Maybe it’s someone you know or maybe you meet a stranger wearing a uniform. Pause and say, “Thank you for your service.” If you know a veteran but won’t see them that day, send a text or call them.
Send a note or care package. All around the country there are veterans in hospitals and living assisted facilities. Maybe an older relative of yours is a veteran. Write a note of thanks or put together a care package. Send it off with love and appreciation. The person who receives it will appreciate whatever you send.
Donate to veterans organizations. From PTSD support to helping elderly veterans, there are plenty of organizations run by and for veterans. Honor the sacrifices made by military members and their families by donating money to help these organizations reach their goals. You can do it on your own or bring your family or co-workers together to raise as much as possible.
Support veteran-owned businesses. There are approximately 2.5 million veteran-owned businesses in the US and dozens in Mecklenburg County alone. When you can, spend your money with companies owned by veterans. This helps them support themselves and their families — and you’re supporting small businesses in the local community.
Invite a veteran to speak to your group. Whether you’re a teacher at a school or you’re part of a church group, someone will benefit from hearing a veteran’s story. Schools, churches, local clubs, businesses, and organizations of all sizes can learn plenty from veterans. Everyone is impacted by what veterans have done for this county, and it’s important to hear their stories.
Volunteer. Giving your time to help local veterans is an important way to honor their service and sacrifice and to help those in your local area. You can help an organization with an event or you can volunteer to help a veteran in your neighborhood. From car washes and 5K races to helping an elderly veteran go grocery shopping, you’re making a difference in the lives of local veterans.
Attend parades and events. In and around Charlotte there are several Veterans Day events you can attend — the weekend before and the day of. Check here for event information, and bring the entire family with you. You can teach your children about what it means to serve the country and let local veterans know they’ll never be forgotten.
Everyone at Charlotte Insurance appreciates our veterans near and far for their service to this country. We are the land of the free because of the brave. We extend our gratitude to the families of veterans, as well. Thank you all for your service and your sacrifice.