Veteran’s Day may be one day on the calendar, but honoring and supporting those who served should be a year-round commitment. While parades and patriotic posts are common in November, veterans in your community need ongoing connection, resources, and appreciation. Whether you’re an individual, business, or community group, there are countless meaningful ways to make an impact beyond the holiday.
1. Supporting Veterans Starts with Showing Up
At Project One Vet @ a Time (POVAT), community support is more than a feel-good gesture–it’s a vital part of how we serve veterans. While our team of professionals leads the charge in navigating VA claims, volunteers help amplify our reach and impact across the country.
From staffing events and helping with logistics to showing up for outreach and fundraising efforts, POVAT volunteers are hands-on in creating real change for the veterans we serve. Whether you’re a military family member, a civilian advocate, or someone who simply believes veterans deserve better, there’s a place for you in this mission.
And we’re just getting started.
At POVAT, we’ve seen what happens when people care enough to take action, and we invite you to be part of it. One Vet @ A Time, we’re building something bigger than benefits paperwork. We’re building hope.
2. Support Mental Health Year-Round
Mental health challenges don’t follow a calendar. PTSD, anxiety, depression, and isolation can impact veterans long after their time in uniform. Consider supporting organizations that offer free counseling, peer support, or trauma-informed programs.
You can also advocate for better mental health access by raising awareness, donating to causes like POVAT, or even organizing wellness events or talks in your community.
3. Host a Veterans Appreciation Event, Outside of November
Organizing a lunch, small gathering, or coffee meetup specifically for local veterans can foster connection and belonging, especially in rural or underserved areas. Collaborate with local businesses or schools to sponsor events in months like March, June, or September, when support is often quieter, but still needed.
Remember: sometimes, just being seen can mean the world to a veteran.
4. Educate Others and Share Their Stories
Not everyone understands what it means to transition from military to civilian life. Use your platform, whether it’s social media, a classroom, a church, or a business, to amplify veteran voices.
Share video testimonials (like those featured by POVAT), spotlight local heroes, or collaborate with veterans to lead community discussions. Education builds empathy, and empathy builds stronger communities.
5. Offer Your Skills or Services
Are you a therapist, photographer, career coach, lawyer, or business owner? Consider donating your time or resources to help a veteran.
Whether it’s reviewing a resume, updating a LinkedIn profile, offering pro bono legal help, or taking headshots for job applications, real-life tools can open substantive doors for those who served.
6. Donate With Intention
Many people want to give back, but are concerned with how their dollars are utilized. Seek out organizations like POVAT, which offers 100% free services to veterans, including legal, medical, and advocacy support for navigating the VA disability claims system.
When you donate to nonprofits that are transparent, veteran-led, and mission-driven, you’re not just giving, you’re changing lives.
7. Support Military Families Too
Celebrating veterans also means supporting their families—spouses, children, and caregivers who stand beside them. Think about donating to or volunteering with organizations that provide family services, scholarships, or respite care.
You can also check in on a military family in your neighborhood, offer babysitting for a date night, or invite them to a local event. Small gestures = big impact.
Conclusion: Keep the Spirit Going
Veterans answered the call to serve our country. It’s up to us to make sure they’re not forgotten once the uniform comes off. From small acts of kindness to organized community efforts, your actions matter.
And when you support organizations like POVAT, you ensure veterans receive the personalized help they need, not just on Veteran’s Day, but every day.
