For many veterans, one of the most important things they learned in their time in the military was the service to others. A large percentage do not want to stop helping their communities even once they have been discharged. The commitment to service is so ingrained in their personalities that many seek alternative ways to continue helping those around them. AFBA has listed several ways veterans can continue to serve their communities after they leave the military.
1. Volunteer with local veterans groups
One of the most rewarding things former servicemembers can do is to help other veterans with the transition to civilian life. Seek out veteran advocacy groups in your community and find out what you can do to help them out.
2. Participate in fundraising activities
Whether it be a bake sale for your kid's elementary school class field trip or collecting donations for local first responders, getting involved with fundraising can be an excellent way to help promote development in your community.
3. Be a listening ear
As a former servicemember, you have likely experienced some difficult things in your life. You could use those memories and your coping methods to help others who may be struggling. Host a support group for fellow veterans or community members who need a little extra help getting from day to day.
4. Join a nonprofit
The goal of nonprofit organizations is to provide a service that will improve the community in some way. These programs often have difficulty finding volunteers to help run things. Your military experience made you highly organized and prepared to tackle tough projects. Lend your valuable skills to a nonprofit of your choosing and watch how your help can make a difference.
5. Organize a community event
As a veteran, people look to you for leadership. You can use your influence to organize an event like a community clean-up, a family-friendly activity day or a block party. Not only will this strengthen community relations, it may give you a chance to reconnect with neighbors and friends you missed during your service.
6. Become a mentor
Children need positive role models to look up to. You can fulfill that role by mentoring the youth in your community. Consider coaching a Little League team, tutoring at the local high school or volunteering to help at-risk teens.
7. Donate blood
This may seem like a simple act, but you would be surprised how helpful it can be. Many blood banks are often low on supplies, and your donation may even save someone's life. This is an especially useful form of service if you have one of the rarer blood types.
8. Lend a hand to the homeless
Veterans homelessness is a big issue in the media right now. However, former servicemembers are not the only group of people affected by it. You could help your community in a big way by raising the money for a transitional housing community. By fundraising and organizing a build, you might provide housing for the less fortunate members of your community. You could also donate your time to a local food bank or soup kitchen for more immediate results.
Life after service does not have to mean life without service. There are plenty of opportunities for veterans to get involved with their communities and continue serving. In the words of author Howard Truman, "Don't ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive and then go do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive." If service is what makes you come alive, then that is something you should pursue.