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Thanksgiving, celebrated in November in the U.S., is a time when most people give “thanks” for what they have in their lives, from family to great health. But it’s also a time to remember veterans who fought for the freedoms Americans so richly enjoy.
The U.S. military personnel deserve your support. After all, they leave their families and put their lives on the line for the country and those living in repressive countries who want to embrace and move toward a democratic system.
Read on to learn about the top veteran charities and how you may donate and give back to those who’ve served and protected the nation and continue to do so.
Give Thanks: Donate to These Top Veterans Charities
The following veteran charities either have an A+, A or A- rating from Charity Watch formerly known as The American Institute of Philanthropy. Consider donating to one or more of them as a way to show your gratitude for the men and women who’ve served and protected you and your family.
Armed Services YMCA of the USA (A Rating)
The mission of the Armed Services YMCA of the USA is to place Christian principles into practice through educational, recreational, social, and religious programs and services for military personnel, either single or married, and their family members.
Fisher House Foundation (A+ Rating)
Military families in need of housing close to a loved one during their hospital stay for an illness, disease or injury may receive help from the Fisher House Foundation. The organization also funds a scholarship program for military families, and offers personnel and their families free air travel and hotel rooms.
Gary Sinise Foundation (A Rating)
Gary Sinise is best known for his role as Lieutenant Dan Taylor in the Oscar awarding winning film Forrest Gump. The Gary Sinise Foundation honors America’s defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need. The organization provides support and programs to entertain, educate, inspire, strengthen, and build communities.
Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund (A Rating)
The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund provides services to military personnel who are severely injured supporting the U.S. The organization strives to improve medical care for military personnel and enhance their ability to return to service or their community, so they can lead a productive and independent civilian life.
National Military Family Association (A Rating)
The National Military Family Association provides guidance to military families of all ranks, including those who are deployed, wounded, and fallen, through stress filled times. The organization provides children’s and family programs, financial help, advice, and advocacy.
Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (A Rating)
The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society in partnership with the Navy and Marine Corps provides Naval Service members of the United States of America and eligible family members with financial, educational, and other assistance.
Semper Fi Fund (A+ Rating)
The Semper Fi Fund, established in 2004, provides immediate and long-term assistance for post-9/11 injured and critically ill members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families, ensuring they have the resources needed during their recovery and transition back into their communities.
Wounded Warriors Family Support (A)
The Wounded Warriors Family Support strives to provide military personnel who were wounded, injured or killed in Iraq and Afghanistan, and their families, with a better quality of life. The organization provides financial funding to other veteran organizations with similar missions.
Thanksgiving and Gratitude: Support Military Charities
Imagine sitting around the Thanksgiving table with your family, but this time you give thanks for the veterans who’ve protected the U.S. throughout the years.
Before you carve the turkey, you and your family bow your heads and take a moment of silence for those who’ve lost their lives so you and your loved ones may enjoy the holiday in your home. Not only are you taking the time to remember veterans on Thanksgiving, but you’ve donated to a military charity. Giving a donation can make a difference in their lives.
Sound good? You bet it does!
To show your support for current and former U.S. military personnel, donate to non-profit organizations for veterans with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), organizations that help homeless veterans, or another top veterans charity.
Enjoy Thanksgiving with your family! Remember to be grateful for the veterans who’ve risked their lives and gave up spending the holiday with their families so that you may enjoy it with yours.
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