Giving Back to the Troops

Erica Gamet

Whether you observe Veterans Day, Remembrance Day, or Armistice Day, November 11th is designated throughout many parts of the world as a day to remember those willing to make one of the greatest sacrifices. Canada’s Veterans Affairs puts the date as a “remembrance for the men and women who have served, and continue to serve our country during times of war, conflict and peace.” What does this have to do with design and creativity? Not a whole lot, directly. But as creatives and part of a larger community, it means a chance to think beyond our own little creative bubble.

Recently, I got to thinking about how—when I worked for a company before going solo—I used to be more aware of causes and charitable organizations. We would have fund-raisers, pledge drives, and the company would often match our donations. As a freelancer, I haven’t kept up with that giving back to the community spirit. Sometimes it’s because I feel like my contribution won’t mean much, but—as they say—every little bit helps.

So, as November 11th comes around, take the time to remember, appreciate, and thank those that have served and those currently serving your country. And, yes, make a donation if you can. I’ve compiled a list of U.S. veterans and service member-oriented charities to get you started. If it’s a little too close to the holidays for your wallet, bookmark the list and you’ll be all set to donate when you get that tax refund in the spring.

The Wounded Warrior Project provides emergency assistance for those service members wounded in the post-September 11th military actions. They provide a holistic approach, serving the service member’s many needs—economic, skill-based, personal, health—as well as the needs of their families. WWP also employs mentoring and peer support to “foster the most successful, well-adjusted generation of wounded service members in our nation’s history.”

United Service Organization—simply known as USO to most—states as part of their mission to provide a home away from home for America’s troops, and to keep them connected to their families. I grew up seeing recordings of their shows, especially around Christmas time, featuring huge stars like Bob Hope. They always brought me joy, and I can’t even imagine how much comfort they provide for troops serving overseas, especially during wartime. They offer a range of other services including transition programs for those leaving the military, entertainment services to deployed troops, wounded and family care centers, and assistance for families of the fallen.

You probably recall the story of Pat Tillman, who put his NFL career on hold to join the U.S. Army in 2002, and was killed in an ambush in Afghanistan in 2004. Pat Tillman’s wife created The Pat Tillman Foundation in 2004 as a scholarship fund. While the foundation still provides scholarships to those students who are committed to positive change—following in the footsteps of Mr. Tillman—the board broadened their scope to include a support network for veterans and their families.

Veteran Tickets Foundation provides a service a little closer to home, by furnishing veterans, currently serving members of the armed forces, and families of those killed in action tickets to sporting and entertainment events. The organization recognizes the need for entertainment and family time as part of a well-adjusted service member and carries that sentiment to families that have lost loved ones. The foundation states that the service members fought for our life and liberty, why not thank them with a small gift toward their pursuit of happiness. You can donate money or tickets to an event.

Bob Woodruff’s story is another many of us watched unfold on our televisions. In 2006, Mr. Woodruff was the new anchor for ABC News and was reporting on security forces from Iraq. He was severely injured by a roadside bomb, but made a miraculous recovery in just over a year. The Bob Woodruff Foundation was subsequently started to help injured veterans and their families along whatever road to recovery they may be traveling. The foundation finds and partners with programs that help veterans make the transition to the next chapter of their lives.

The inaugural Concert for Valor will be broadcast from the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on November 11th. The star-studded event is being put on to bring attention to veterans and active duty service members and their families. The concert will be broadcast on HBO and live-streamed on their website. This big public thank you will feature the diverse music of Metallica, Bruce Springsteen, and Carrie Underwood, among others. In addition, film personalities like Tom Hanks, Steven Spielberg, and Meryl Streep are scheduled in hopes of raising awareness for service organizations that aid veterans and active duty military. The Concert for Valor website even features a list of other ways to help, that don’t involve monetary donations.

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is dedicated to serving veterans of those particular conflicts, providing transitional assistance and family services. The IAVA has a network that is made up of monthly local gatherings (call
ed “vet-togethers”) and an online community of support for its members. Another valuable service provided is a toolbox for navigating the myriad services that are available to veterans.

How Else Can I Help?

Cash poor, but rich in other treasures? How are your reserves of frequent flyer miles? Many airlines have programs for donating those miles directly to members of the military. The Fisher House also has a program for this purpose. Hero Miles provides airline travel to ill and wounded service members who are going through treatment.

If you find yourself a little short on surplus cash, you can always donate your time. Many of these programs have local chapters and are often in need of volunteer workers. Chances are also good that there is a military or veterans group right in your hometown. Get out and volunteer! As a designer, artist, or photographer, we have the opportunity to provide our creative services, as well. Consider donating your design services for the local VFW Post’s membership directory, your photography expertise to a local charity’s fundraising event, or providing a veteran-neighbor’s resumé with a face-lift. You’d also be surprised how appreciative a service member can be when you buy them a Starbucks or just say, “Thank you for all you do” when you see them at the airport or in the store.