It’s easy to think about supporting our military personnel and veterans around holidays like Memorial Day or Veterans Day. While those times are certainly important, the needs of our service members and their families don’t take a break after the parades are over. Many companies are realizing the value of stepping up year-round, offering consistent support that makes a real difference in the lives of those who serve our country. This ongoing commitment not only aids military communities but also strengthens a company’s own sense of purpose and connection within the broader community.
Building a Culture of Support for Our Military
This kind of sustained support goes beyond just a symbolic gesture; it’s about practical help that can be felt every day. Companies have a unique opportunity to be a consistent force for good through direct contributions, employee involvement, or leveraging their public platform. By integrating support for military personnel into their regular operations, companies can build a culture of giving that benefits everyone, creating a more connected and caring environment for employees and the community alike.
Impact Events: Hands-On Ways to Give Back
One fantastic way companies can get involved is by organizing “Impact Events” for their employees. These are hands-on activities that allow teams to contribute to the well-being of deployed troops and veterans directly. Imagine your employees coming together to pack care packages filled with essential snacks and personal notes for soldiers overseas, or perhaps assembling cozy no-sew blankets for veterans in VA hospitals. Other engaging options include packing hygiene kits for homeless veterans or even preparing ready-to-eat box lunches for those in need.
Employee Giving Programs: Sustaining the Impact
Beyond these engaging events, businesses can also establish employee giving programs to foster a culture of continuous support. This could involve matching employee donations to military support organizations, allowing for payroll deductions where staff can easily contribute a portion of their paycheck, or even offering incentives like paid volunteer hours for time spent helping out. Some companies take this a step further by providing company grants based on the volunteer hours their employees dedicate, effectively amplifying the impact of individual generosity.
