Six Solid Ways to Tell Veterans Thank You

Figuring out how to honor Veterans Day can sometimes feel like a challenge. So what's the best way to express gratitude to the people who have served?

Here are a few ideas for thanking the veterans we come across on Veterans Day and throughout our lives.

1. Volunteer at a Veteran's Organization. There are typically plenty of opportunities to volunteer for groups such as the American Legion and Habitat for Humanity, to name a few. They all need volunteers to help with their veterans' outreach programs. Giving your time and energy is a terrific way to say thank you.

2. Attend a Community Event. Be assured that a veteran organization in your area is hosting some Veterans Day events. Drop by your local VFW or American Legion for ideas and event leads, and then take the family or friends out to join the event. 

3. Donate to a Veteran-Focused Organization. The Dubuque Veteran Freedom Center is an ideal local group dedicated to supporting area veterans. Also, support national missions such as the Fisher House Foundation's efforts to build free-of-charge comfort homes for military veterans and their families.

4. Buy A Veteran Lunch. It may be as simple as calling a veteran friend and treating them to a bite to eat. Or the next time you're in a cafe or coffee shop and see a Veteran, you can anonymously pay for their lunch. Or perhaps it's a coffee at a coffeehouse. Mostly, it's about performing a random act of kindness.

5. Hire a Veteran-Owned Business There are countless veteran owned and operated businesses across the country. Also, consider Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses. 

6. Pick Up the Phone & Place a Call. Most people have family and friends who have served in the United States military. Suppose you haven't spoken to them in a while, then make Veterans Day the perfect excuse to reach out and check in. It's a low-cost, no-frills approach, but it's sure to be appreciated by the Veterans in your life.

There are countless ways to show appreciation, but if the list above doesn't work for you, some avenue for expressing gratitude will soon find you. But, until then, you could always buy a round the next time you stop by the American Legion.