Memorial Day 2023
Memorial Day is today, which means gatherings and family barbecues will be happening. However, before you get caught up in the holiday’s festivities, take a moment to think about the reason for Memorial Day. If you’re looking for ways to make a positive impact, keep reading.
Five Ways to Show Appreciation on Memorial Day
Below are five easy ways to show appreciation on Memorial Day. This selection is quite flexible, meaning there should be at least one idea that practically anyone can try.
1- Donate to a Worthy Cause
Find an organization that supports veterans and their families and make a donation. Take your time searching through the different listings you’ll come across to be sure you’re working with a legitimate nonprofit. If donating money isn’t an option, find an organization that accepts volunteers.
2- YouTube Memorial Day Tribute
Create and post a Memorial Day tribute video on YouTube (or your preferred platform). You might focus on a family member or friend who passed away in service, or you and your family can film a general video to broadcast to the public. Express your appreciation for the individuals who served and your sympathies and support for family members who’ve lost a loved one in service.
3- Plant Poppies
Poppies are a common symbol we see pinned to hats and shirt lapels during Memorial Day. They’re a solemn gesture, but the ones we wear won’t last very long. If you’re interested in gardening and want to keep a loved one’s memory alive, try planting poppies at home.
4- Send Care Packages
Even if you don’t have a loved one who is actively serving, there are organizations you can reach out to in order to connect with soldiers who’d most definitely appreciate care packages. Send something nice to an individual serving in the military, and if you’re remembering someone special on Memorial Day, extend this act of kindness in their honor.
5- Share Your Family’s Stories
If you have family members who served in the military and have since passed away, share their stories with your family and friends. Talk to other families who want to celebrate a departed service member.
Remember to stay safe and have fun throughout the holiday weekend. Thank a veteran for their service and express your support for the families who carry grief with them during this time of the year.
SOURCES
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/g27455860/memorial-day-activities/
https://www.vehiclesforveterans.org/5-ways-to-honor-veterans-and-soldiers-on-memorial-day/
https://www.military.com/spouse/military-deployment/online-care-package-program.html
https://www.charitynavigator.org/discover-charities/where-to-give/veteran-service-member-charities/