Today, according to the Council on Foreign Relations, there are about 1.3 million active-duty military service members, each of which is prepared to put their life on the line in the name of their country and the people who call the United States home. Plus, there are around 19 million veterans, all of whom gave part of their lives to serve.
Military members, veterans, and their families all face unique hardships. Luckily, you can help make a difference. If you want to improve the lives of military members, veterans, and their families, Rockland Homes for Heroes shares what you can do.
Making Medical Care Accessible
Many veterans struggle with getting the care they need. That’s why organizations like Disabled American Veterans (DAV) are so crucial. The DAV is a nonprofit that improves veterans’ access to medical care, assisting with transportation to appointments, claim form completion, and more.
By supporting the organization or volunteering, you too can make a difference. Plus, you can positively impact the lives of disabled veterans by referring those who may benefit from support from DAV.
Building Housing for Disabled Veterans in Need
Many veterans with injuries need modified housing to live comfortably. However, finding that on the open market is difficult.
According to Apartment List, only 6 percent of housing units in the United States are accessible, a number that isn’t nearly enough to support the more than 15.2 million people living with physical disabilities. As a result, many veterans struggle to find the accessible homes they need to thrive.
If you want to make accessible housing available to veterans, support organizations like Rockland Homes for Heroes. Whether you want to donate or assist with the actual building, your contribution can change the life of a veteran and their family, ensuring they have an accessible place to call home today, tomorrow, and into the future.
Providing the Love of a Pet
Having a pet can have a dramatic positive impact on a person’s physical and mental health. If you want to make sure that veterans suffering from injuries get access to loving animal companions, supporting Pets for Vets lets you assist with this critical kind of care. Plus, the program pairs veterans with shelter animals, allowing you to make a difference in the lives of animals in need, too.
Career Growth
Whether it’s an active-duty service member transitioning to civilian life or a spouse that wants to establish a career or business of their own, you can get involved. If you own a business or are in a hiring position, seek out veterans to bring on board. You can actively recruit candidates by posting your desire to fill vacancies with vets on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, as well as your website.
Along with offering support, share information that can help these heroes take the next step. For example, Google Jobs for Veterans helps military members see how their service translates into civilian opportunities. The Small Business Administration’s Office of Veterans Business Development has resources for military families that want to launch companies.
Put your concern for our vets into actionable steps by following one or more of these tips. It’s a win-win for everyone involved!
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Rockland Homes for Heroes develops permanent supportive housing for honorably discharged veterans, both male and female, who are homeless, disabled, or at risk of homelessness in New York’s Mid-Hudson Valley. Find out more today by calling (845) 323-2329!
