May 02, 2022
Veterans have long had a penchant for volunteerism and community service work. To recognize that service, in February 2020, VFW launched its #StillServing campaign aimed at showcasing the volunteer endeavors of VFW members across the globe. Since then, thousands of stories have been posted online at vfw.org/StillServing.
VFW Director of Communications Randi Law said the many stories of VFW members contributing their time to volunteer efforts sparked the idea to showcase what the organization does as well.
“The inaugural VFW Day of Service is planned for May,” Law said. “We hope that VFW Posts work with other organizations and civic groups to achieve great things within the community.”
While the VFW Day of Service is scheduled for the first Saturday in May, Posts can select any day throughout the month to complete its service work.
While anyone can participate in the VFW Day of Service, those looking to volunteer are asked to work with a VFW Post.
Law noted that in 2021, a focus group comprised of younger veterans was asked about their perceptions of VFW. Then, the group was shown a selection of #StillServing stories, and the group’s opinion of VFW improved by several points. The overwhelming questions the individuals in the group had was about how to get involved.
“VFW Day of Service will increase ties between veterans and their communities,” Law said. “It also will bring veterans of all generations together. A lot of younger veterans are looking to be leaders in their communities, and this is a way.”
To get started, individuals and Posts should visit www.VFWDayofService.org to fill out a brief form expressing interest, then reach out to another community group and make plans for a Day of Service in May.
Perhaps the city park needs a good cleanup or a community center needs some much-needed maintenance. Do you know of elderly residents who could use assistance sprucing up their yards before summer? What about helping at a local food pantry? The possibilities are endless, Law said.
“The VFW Day of Service also is about camaraderie, which is important now more than ever,” Law said. “And it is about taking all the great things VFW is already doing and letting the world know.”