Observed on the last Monday in May, Memorial Day honors and remembers those who died while serving in the U.S. military. While we may enjoy barbecues and camping or other activities during the long weekend, it is essential to remember this holiday’s true meaning and pay tribute to our veterans. Honoring Memorial Day by watching the parade and hanging flags at half-mast are excellent ways to show respect and gratitude for the sacrifices made.

There are other ways to support veterans and active military members as well. From donating time at a local VA hospital, donating money to organizations that assist veterans, or donating kind words by simply thanking a veteran for their service, there are a plethora of ways to celebrate Memorial Day, including a few fun and creative ways for all ages to honor veterans, as outlined below.

How to Celebrate Memorial Day Through Charity 

Here at TisBest, our team believes in making the world a better place, one gift at a time. This gift can be one of kindness, advocacy, and action. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite Veteran & Military Charities, but don’t worry, if you don’t immediately fall in love with one of these, there are thousands of others you can choose from!

1. K9s For Warriors are determined to end veteran suicide by providing highly-trained Services dogs to military veterans. The bond built through a K9/Warrior team facilitates collective healing and recovery. They have many ways to get involved to help our Veterans and four-legged friends.
   
2. Operation Homefront is dedicated to serving America’s military families by providing housing, financial, and food assistance to veterans nationwide. They have been able to help over 600,00 families to date!
   
3. American Battlefield Trust fights to preserve battlegrounds while educating the public about what happened there and why it matters. They find that history education is the foundation of good citizenship and a key ingredient in developing national leaders for tomorrow.
   
4. Wounded Warrior Project is a fantastic organization that provides mental health services, career counseling, and long-term rehabilitative care. Their ultimate goal is to honor, empower and improve the lives of millions of warriors and their families.
   
5. America’s Service Dogs, established in 2003, invites volunteers to activities such as puppy raising to provide homes until they are old enough to enter the certified training programs, host a community fundraising event, or purchase homemade dog treats!
   
6. Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) aims to help paralyzed and disabled Veterans regain their independence. They have helped millions of veterans by providing over $1 billion to those who live with spinal cord injuries, MS, and ALS.
   
7. Soldiers Angels assist not only veterans and their families but wounded and actively deployed military members as well. They offer care packages and letters to those deployed, technology and support to the wounded, food service and mental healthcare to veterans and families, and even provide care for military working dogs!
   
8. Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) provides care and comprehensive resources for all those grieving the death of a military or veteran loved one. They offer a national peer support network, connections to grief resources, and host seminars around the country. These free resources extend to all military branches, including but not limited to Army, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, Navy, and National Guard. 

The sacrifices made by our military personnel are ongoing, even after their time in service has ended. By supporting organizations that assist veterans and their families, we can help ensure their sacrifices are recognized and honored. 

Honoring Memorial Day With Crafts & Gifts 

Looking for a way to include the children to help them understand the meaning of the holiday? Involving them in DIY crafts related to Memorial Day is a great way to spark their imagination and create a hands-on learning experience. 

Whether planning a backyard barbecue or engaging in a discussion about the meaning of Memorial Day, incorporating DIY crafts adds an extra element of fun and excitement for the younger generation. These crafts can serve as delightful decorations while also acting as teaching moments that leave a lasting impression. Here are some cheerful DIY craft ideas to engage children during this memorable holiday:

1. Wreaths: Create stunning and patriotic wreaths with just a few simple materials: red, white, and blue colored fabric and a foam circle. You can use brand-new fabric or repurpose old clothing, rags, or towels in those vibrant colors. Cut the fabric in 3-5 inch strips and tie it onto the foam circle. You can cut stars from white paper or fabric to add something extra to your wreath! Hang this on your front door, above the mantelpiece, or use it as a centerpiece for your Memorial Day gathering.
   
2. Mason Jar Holders: Transform unused mason jars into versatile and festive decorations by painting them in vibrant red, white, and blue colors. These decorative mason jars can serve as cutlery holders during your barbecue, providing a functional and visually appealing way to display utensils for your guests. Alternatively, they make excellent vases for fresh flowers or even decorative holders for sparklers or small flags. Arrange them as centerpieces on your dining table, or place them strategically around your backyard for a vibrant and festive ambiance.
   
3. DIY Poppies: For this activity, you will need red tissue paper, black construction paper, scissors, glue, and a pin. Cut the red tissue paper into circles, approximately 2-3 inches in diameter. Cut the black construction paper into smaller circles, about ½ -1 inch in diameter. Place the black circles on top of the red ones, and style the circles by twisting and crumpling the edges to give a natural and textured feel. Glue pieces together, then glue the pin on the back. Attach these to clothing, wreaths, or give them away!
   
4. TisBest Charity Gift Cards: TisBest Charity Gift Cards offer a unique way to blend the spirit of giving with the significance of Memorial Day. They enable individuals to honor fallen soldiers, support veterans and military families, and contribute to causes that align with their values. By giving TisBest Charity Gift Cards, you empower others to make a positive impact and create a meaningful legacy in honor of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. 

Incorporating any of the above into your Memorial Day celebrations can create a meaningful and interactive experience for children. Through hands-on activities and discussions, you will help them grasp the importance of the holiday and foster a sense of gratitude and respect for those who have served in the military.

Thank You, Veterans 

Let’s take a moment to reflect on our military men and women’s sacrifices and commit to showing our gratitude and helping in meaningful ways. Together, we can make a positive difference in the lives of those who have served our country and ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

It is through collective efforts and a shared sense of responsibility that we can ensure the sacrifices made by our veterans are never forgotten. This commitment extends beyond mere acknowledgment and requires active engagement and support. By engaging with veteran organizations, volunteering our time and skills, providing employment opportunities, and advocating for accessible mental health support, we can help veterans transition into civilian life more successfully.

Honoring Memorial Day by Paying It Forward

Memorial Day is a time to remember and honor the men and women who have served in the military. TisBest Charity Gift Cards allow people to choose from a wide range of charities dedicated to supporting veterans, military families, and organizations that address the unique challenges faced by those who have served their country. Directing the gift card towards these causes is a way to show appreciation for their service and contribute to initiatives that improve the lives of veterans.

By working together, we can go beyond honoring Memorial Day by forging a future where the sacrifices of our military men and women are never forgotten and where the support they receive year-round is unwavering. Let us honor their courage, dedication, and service by committing ourselves to positively impacting their lives. Through these efforts, we express our deepest gratitude and fulfill our responsibility to those who have selflessly defended our nation.