Many veterans suffer from physical and psychological health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder. In the absence of appropriate care, they may experience severe stress that affects their families, their ability to perform civilian jobs, and their prospects. Many companies say they would like to return the favor by appreciating the veterans’ community but are unsure how to start. Here are some of the most remarkable ways for your company to support the military community and express gratitude for their sacrifices:
Story Stages
Honor the veterans in your workplace.
Many veterans work in the civilian workforce today. Organizing unique learning and social events, like coffee hours, a mentorship program to assist veterans in adjusting to civilian life, or special lunch-and-learns, can be a great way to recognize veterans in the workplace.
Employees can connect over shared experiences and a sense of support by organizing programs and activities for veterans. Ensure the veterans in your workplace are happy to participate and be recognized before planning any celebrations; some may wish to keep their experiences private. In this case, think about subtler ways to show your appreciation.
Donate to veterans organizations.
Corporate Donations for Veterans go a long way in helping nonprofit organization scarry out incredible work helping veterans, their families, and even service dogs in various circumstances. Here is the standard procedure if you want your company to donate to veteran organizations:
- Look into organizations that help veterans’ needs and choose one you would like to donate to.
- Verify the charity’s standing as a respectable and reliable establishment.
- Decide if you want to contribute money to the cause, brand items, or give your time and skills.
- Give something and change the world!
- Record your charitable gifts for tax purposes if you donate money or property.
Offer veterans year-round benefits and discounts.
By implementing a military discount program, you can demonstrate your support for veterans and make your company stand out from the competition. Ninety percent of veterans will admit that they have benefited from a military discount at some point.
Veterans discount programs can be anything from special in-store events and promotions to a percentage discount on each purchase (many companies provide between 10% and 50% off). You can even do this in honor of special occasions like Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day. Through these initiatives, companies can establish a deep emotional bond with their military community clientele and veteran staff members, perhaps leading to enduring partnerships with devoted patrons.
Volunteer services
While many veteran organizations are doing amazing things for the military community, they lack the resources to maintain a flawless operation without volunteers. It’s a terrific idea to dedicate a day or an afternoon for your company to volunteer work for the veterans. Most cities provide many volunteer options, so discovering one is not difficult.
Provide care packages.
Putting together care packages is an engaging and entertaining way to show gratitude for your company’s veterans. You can add everything from branded company items to candies and chocolates to tickets for nearby events to customize these bundles to each individual.
Ensure every package has a handwritten note thanking the employee, preferably from a higher-up like the CEO or the employee’s supervisor. You can organize a company-wide event where employees can make care packages for active service members or veterans in your neighborhood.
Send letters
Make a soldier’s day by having everyone in your organization take a few minutes to write a letter for a veteran. You can organize this through nonprofit veterans organizations like Wounded Warriors Family Support.
Conclusion
Companies can support the military community in various ways, including volunteering, sending letters and care packages, giving discounts, and making donations.
