Honoring Veterans Day: Small Ways to Say a Big Thank You

This Veterans Day, we have an opportunity to honor and thank those who’ve served our country, dedicating themselves to protecting the freedoms we often take for granted. It’s a day of reflection, gratitude, and—perhaps most importantly—action. There are plenty of meaningful ways to recognize Veterans Day, whether it's supporting a local veteran-owned business, donating time, or simply reaching out to show appreciation.

Here are a few ways you can celebrate Veterans Day while honoring the incredible contributions of our veterans.

1. Visit or Support Veteran-Owned Small Businesses

Supporting veteran-owned businesses is one of the most impactful ways to celebrate the day. Every purchase you make from these businesses is a vote of confidence and a tangible way to show gratitude. From coffee shops (like our favorite Altruistic Joe!) to artisan stores and local restaurants, veteran-owned businesses are woven into communities across the country, each bringing a unique story and purpose.

This Veteran’s Day, why not make a list of your favorite veteran-owned businesses and plan to stop by? Whether it’s picking up a coffee, ordering lunch, or shopping for gifts, even small purchases help sustain these businesses and the hardworking veterans behind them.

2. Send a Thank-You Card or Message

It may sound old-fashioned, but sometimes the smallest gestures make the biggest difference. A handwritten note or email thanking a veteran for their service can be incredibly meaningful. Not sure who to send it to? Many local Veteran Affairs offices, veteran organizations, and even local community centers welcome cards and letters to share with veterans in the area.

Consider this: a simple message of thanks might be just the reminder a veteran needs to know their sacrifices and service are valued.

3. Volunteer for Veteran Causes

One way to actively honor veterans is by donating your time to causes that support them. There are plenty of opportunities, from volunteering at a local VA hospital to helping with veteran-focused food drives, organizing care packages, or participating in events like “Wreaths Across America.” It’s a way to give back to those who have given so much.

Check out local veteran organizations or your community’s volunteer pages to see where you can lend a hand. Sometimes, the most valuable thing we can give is our time and attention.

4. Attend a Veteran’s Day Event in Your Community

From parades to ceremonies and everything in between, Veteran’s Day events provide the chance to join your community in honoring the day together. It’s a meaningful way to show respect and take a moment to appreciate the collective strength of those who’ve served. You can even bring the whole family along to learn about the day’s significance and help pass on the importance of honoring veterans to the next generation.

5. Donate to Veteran Support Organizations

Donating to organizations that support veterans is another impactful way to celebrate. Some nonprofits work to address veterans' unique needs, like mental health support, career assistance, and healthcare resources. By donating, you’re directly contributing to the well-being of veterans in ways that last well beyond Veteran’s Day.

Look for organizations that align with causes close to your heart, or even consider donating to local groups where you can see the impact firsthand.

Honoring the Day with Action

At Altruistic Joe, we believe Veterans Day is a time to go beyond the “thank you” and put gratitude into action. Whether it’s shopping at your favorite veteran-owned business, volunteering, or donating, each effort contributes to a bigger, more supportive community for those who’ve served.

From all of us at Altruistic Joe, thank you to our veterans. Your bravery, commitment, and resilience inspire us every day.