Sheila Spaulding
2021-2022 National Youth Activities Ambassador
Fall Service Opportunities for Youth
Autumn is here and with that comes a very special day of observance: Veterans Day, November 11. This day holds many opportunities for young people so let’s dive into some ideas that will invite and engage youth in our areas.
This year why don’t you think about inviting youth to participate in one or more of the following:
- Parades
- Ceremonies
- Student assemblies
- “Buddy”® Poppy drives
- Flag distributions
Veterans will be marching in parades and lining the streets. The VFW Auxiliary wants all veterans to know that we care about them while also recognizing young people for doing their part to support veterans. Patriotic Youth Awards and Youth Groups Supporting our Veterans Citations are wonderful ways to recognize our youth. These resources are available at vfwauxiliary.org/resources.
On the heels of Veteran’s Day comes another important holiday, Thanksgiving. The holidays can be a difficult time of year for many people, including veterans. We want to teach our youth to think beyond themselves and be thankful, kind and caring. Try involving local youth in some of the following activities at your Post:
- Make crafts/centerpieces/table favors to be sent to VA Hospitals and Veterans Homes.
- Organize a food drive, collect items and deliver to a food bank.
- Create survival kits filled with personal care items for the homeless population.
- Write letters/cards to deployed soldiers.
Memories from these events will impact youth and forever instill volunteerism in their lives. Let’s work together to Soar Above & Beyond for our veterans and future generations of patriotic volunteers.