Veterans Day is Monday, November 11th this year, and it’s an excellent time to spotlight ways that we can all help and appreciate those who serve the United States of America. Whether you attend a service over the weekend, visit a local Veterans Association, or give to a national charity to support veterans, taking this time to show support is an excellent investment for the good of our country.

In 1918, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, the guns fell silent in Europe.  The armistice was signed signaling the end of “the war to end all wars.”   One year later, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed that day as Armistice Day.

The tradition of observing the day on November 11 continued, and since 1954, that date has been set aside as Veterans Day.  Today, veterans and organizations statewide celebrate this holiday with various events. Below is a list of ways you can show support regardless of where you live and work.

National Charities for Veterans

Veterans need our support whether they are entering the military, in the field, or coming home. The following national charities help veterans and their families in a variety of ways and currently accept monetary donations:

• Operation Finally Home – In conjunction with People magazine, Operation Finally Home is an organization that provides custom-designed, mortgage-free homes for disabled and wounded veterans and the widows of those who have died while serving our country. Started by homebuilder Dan Wallrath in Texas, this organization has provided more than 30 homes since it was created.
• Brides Across America – Located in Massachusetts, this organization has provided thousands of sample, gently used and new bridal dresses to military brides.
• Welcome Back Veterans – This organization, started in 2008, is a Major League Baseball Charities initiative that focuses on helping soldiers afflicted with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) they transition to civilian life.
• HirePatriots – If you own or operate a small business, check out this organization that encourages the hiring of veterans in the private sector through full-time positions or one-day jobs. They also accept cash donations to provide veterans with training and have local chapters.

Veterans Day Events Across the Country

If you want to support veterans in your community but aren’t sure what programs are available this weekend, check out this interactive map on the Veterans Affairs website to find activities near you.

If you are home-bound or want to show your support via social media, go to the Veterans Affairs thunderclap and use the hashtag #HONORINGVETS.

Veterans Day Events in Oregon

At Local Fresh, we are all about participating in our local communities. Small businesses like ours are important to creating a growing, stable economy in which we can give to others. Since we are located near Portland, Oregon, here is a list of Veterans Day events throughout the state of Oregon and organized by city.

For veterans and families who would like to volunteer on a more consistent basis, here is a list of related resources for veterans in Oregon.

Resources for Veterans

To get more resources for veterans, check out:

• United States Department of Veterans Affairs
• Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs –ODVA’s Blog, or ODVA’s Facebook page.