Help a Vet during the Holidays Volunteer
There's something about the holidays that induces kindhearted acts to those less fortunate than ourselves. Though you may see it on television or hear it on the radio, charity work really comes from an idea to help without being recognized. Take for example volunteering your time at VA for Homeless Vets or those Vets who can no longer care for themselves through a disability or sickness. Based on my experience volunteering my time at a local VAhttp://www.volunteer.va.gov/(I'm a former U.S. Marine), the joy it brings to some of their faces are priceless. Others Vets may seem disengaged through there own thoughts and feelings that "I was that person who helped others" or "I can't believe this is where I'm at in my life." Each Vet thinks differently, but if you do more than drop off a care package to them, like talk to them for a few minutes this will go a long way with those who have served out country.
It's also great way to introduce your children to volunteering their time. My sons came down with me one year and were too shy to interact with the Vets, so we helped clean up after a movie that was shown in "The Great Hall." A large hall that sits hundreds of Vets to watch a recent movie or a recital donated by anonymous individuals or groups. School choirs and bands have performed during many of the holiday celebrations or remembrances as well. The United States Marine Corps also helps with Toys for Tots,http://www.toysfortots.org/so however charitable you feel, there are numerous ways to help Vets especially during the holidays.
Additionally, I felt chills, a little emotional and proud of myself to be able and offer some of my time to these Vets. Contact your local VA and ask for the Volunteer department and see what a difference you can make in someones life by just taking an hour of your life and provide an ear, a shoulder or a care package. Talk to HR at your work and see how Corporate could help. Discuss with your Guidance Counselor at school and see what your school can do to volunteer some much needed time to the Vets. On the major holidays, it brings some relief to these Vets when people they don't know hand them a holiday card or a small gift/care package. Whatever you feel most comfortable with, just do it!
