Hospital: September Holidays

Those who attended the workshop at National Convention saw some examples of easy crafts to make. I hope you found that it gave you some ideas and hopefully sparked some others for your own creative projects.

Now would be a great time to start planning and put those activities in action. The next several months have holidays that would be the perfect opportunity to make crafts and distribute them to patients.

September 11:  Patriot Day

I hope everyone remembers the impact this tragic day had on our country.

• Please take the time to visit a facility and pass out American flags. By including those who are confined, you will give them the chance to participate in showing their American pride.
• If you’re having a ceremony at your Post Home, check to see if there are any patients who could be transported to attend.

September 19: POW/MIA Recognition Day

It’s so important to honor those who were prisoners of war and never forget those who are still missing in action.

• Contact a facility and schedule a POW/MIA Ceremony. Invite ALL veterans, members, and the public. If you’re unable to schedule the ceremony, consider visiting a facility and passing out POW/MIA and American flags.
• If you know of any former POWs in the hospital or nursing home, be sure to recognize them and their sacrifice.

Entire Month of September:  Suicide Awareness & Prevention

• Remember to wear the blue teardrop. You can download the template from the National Auxiliary website here. When someone asks about it, explain our concern about the number of veteran and military suicides. It’s an easy way to bring veteran and military suicide awareness into our communities.
• Have information about the Veterans Crisis Line available to give out.
• Contact your local VA Suicide Prevention Coordinator about a training session to recognize telltale signs. Even one suicide is too many.