The Veteran's Initiative

With today being Veteran's day, it's time to think of what we can do to honor them along with helping them.The best bet is working together as a community to make sure our vets are well fed and tended to. It may eve bring us together.

One of the best ways to honor them is reaching out. You can volunteer at veteran's homes , helping to cook and bake. Another pair of hands will be appreciated , especially when it comes to cutting and paring veggies.Also be on hand when the vets have birthdays, especially a milestone one. If you're a baker contribute a home made birthday cake or cupcakes, If they're on strict diets, then think about creating fruit bouquets similar to Edible Arrangements. They're easy to create , especially if you have metal cut out molds or paring knives. You can also contribute savory dishes such as veggies and dip or chips and homemade salsa. A homemade dinner is also a great way of saying thank you especially if you have vets in your neighborhood. It's also a great way of learning about history from someone  who has first hand experience. Another way of saying thank you is just taking him or her out for a meal or even a coffee. They'll probably enjoy the company more than the food.

The community can also come together to help vets. Think about having large communal holiday themed dinners like Thanksgiving at your schools. The school cafe or even gym can serve as the dining area. The cost can be diffused by turning it into a pot luck buffet. This is also a good lesson in inclusiveness as well. Have students and their families cook up or bake family favorites or heirloom recipes. It'll give vets a chance to try a possible array of Indian, Filipino and Caribbean dishes as well as such Thanksgiving classics as cranberry sauce and stuffing.  The students , especially the older ones, will gleam info about the country's involvement in recent wars. It may even inspire them to consider public service as a career choice. Another way of honoring them is having block parties. If the weather is mild in your area, then think about a holiday one. It's not just a good time for a plate of Christmas cookies but plaques thanking them for their service. Gift them with gift cards to their favorite restaurants or coffee houses like Panera, Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts.

Don't honor veterans just on today. Honor them everyday. They fought  like the heroes they are. Celebrate them always.