Financial Education

Giving back to those who serve

Ten years ago, Congress designated May as National Military Appreciation Month, a time to honor those who, according to the resolution, have been so "instrumental to the preservation of the freedom, security, and prosperity enjoyed by the people of the United States." This designation was re-affirmed in 2004, setting aside four weeks when we as a nation can pause and give thanks to the men and women who serve, and to the families that provide support to their Soldier, Sailor, Airman, or Marine.

This year, there are a number of events and special days to honor members of the Armed Forces, including Military Spouse Day (May 8), Armed Forces Day (May 16) and, of course, Memorial Day (May 27). If you would like to get involved and give back to service members and their families, there are a number of ways to do so:

  • Volunteer at your local VA Hospital—Help a wounded veteran by visiting www.volunteer.va.gov/. They will ask you for some information about your interests and why you want to volunteer to ensure you get the right opportunity.

  • Ask a veteran to speak at a meeting or to a group—Those who have served often developed unique leadership skills and had interesting experiences, and their insight can teach things like leadership, working with diverse groups, and how to achieve a difficult objective. The veteran can be a co-worker, family member, or referred by a local veteran's group.

  • Visit a military landmark—The military has had a prominent role in American history, and there are monuments, memorials, and museums located in every state. If going with children on a day trip, have a car-ride quiz on the way about the history behind the destination.

  • Put the "Memorial" back in Memorial Day—Though it has turned into the unofficial first weekend of summer, Memorial Day was intended as a way to remember the ultimate sacrifice millions have made for our country, so take some time to think about, appreciate, and thank those who did.

  • Answer the Call—This year, Pioneer Services and Heights Finance Corp. are collecting old cellphones, which will then be recycled for money. One hundred percent of the proceeds generated will be donated to USA Cares, a non-profit that provides grants to military families in need. Phones can be dropped off at more than 150 locations nationwide. For more information, visit AnswerTheCallNow.com.

  • Donate to a charity—If you don't have time to volunteer or a cell phone to recycle, consider giving to a charity like Fisher House, National Military Families Association, Donors Choose, USA Cares, or another of your choice. If you're not sure which charity to donate to, check SITE.

  • Just say "thanks"—Whether you do it in person when you see a service member, over the phone to a friend or family member who served, or send an email or letter through sites like www.AMillionThanks.org or www.ourmilitary.mil (formerly "America Supports You"), saying "thank you" is a quick, easy, and free way to show your support to a service member.

No matter what you choose, be sure to take some time this Military Appreciation Month to give back to those who have given so much to all of us.

About the author
Karen Von Der Bruegge is the Chief Marketing Officer for Pioneer Services, the Military Banking Division of MidCountry Bank, a company that provides financial services and education exclusively to the military community. She is both a Certified Credit Report Reviewer and Identity Theft Prevention Specialist, and has managed award-winning marketing and PR campaigns.

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