During November, we were able to donate 533 heart-shaped cough pillows and 1,942 letters to veterans. We were able to partner with Montgomery County Regional-SGA and lead their service event by creating letters expressing gratitude towards veterans. Their members were able to make a thank-you poster, so we were glad that we could donate even more than usual.
Veterans Day is an important national holiday that is celebrated on November 11th every year to honor and recognize the sacrifices made by veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It is a day to give thanks to the men and women who have put their lives on the line to protect our country and its citizens.
For our organization which regularly donates letters to veterans at the Baltimore VA Center, Veterans Day holds a special meaning. It is an opportunity for us to show our appreciation and support for the veterans who have received our letters, as well as all veterans who have served our country. The letters we donate are a small but meaningful way to show veterans that they are not forgotten and that their service is appreciated.
The act of writing letters to veterans can have a powerful impact on them. Many veterans feel isolated and disconnected from society after they return home, and receiving letters can help lift their spirits and provide them with a sense of connection and community. Receiving letters can help veterans to feel seen and heard, which can be particularly important for those who may have experienced trauma during their time in service. Our organization serves as a conduit for younger students to give thanks to veterans.
Doing donation deliveries with the Vice President of HSFL, Matthew Nam, is particularly meaningful because it allows me to see the real-life impact that I am having by interacting with front-line workers. The experience of delivering items is humbling and allows me to see firsthand the impact that our organization is having on the lives of those we are helping.
When I see the gratitude and appreciation on the faces of the front-line workers who receive our donations, it is a reminder of why we do the work that we do. It is a powerful experience to be able to connect with these individuals, hear their stories, and see the tangible impact that our efforts are making in their lives. These interactions also give me a deeper understanding of the importance of our mission and the urgency of the situation. It’s a reminder that every little bit of help counts and makes a difference in someone’s life.
Written by Austin Moon
January 18th, 2023
