Our U.S. armed forces veterans have devoted their lives to going above and beyond for our country.

On Veterans Day, 2016 let’s go above and beyond for them.

In addition to thanking our troops for their service on Friday, Nov. 11, participate in or host #goaboveandbeyond programming at your local JCC or community/faith-based organization. Host a veteran for Shabbat dinner, have your synagogue give a veteran an aliyah, take part in a service project for veterans, or hear them tell their story and help share it. There are so many ways we can go above and beyond simply saying thanks—by showing it, as well.

Download our free Veteran’s Day Programming Guide to learn how your organization can #goaboveandbeyond with simple programming ideas appropriate for all ages.

Here are some easy ways your staff and community can show your support for our veterans the week of Veteran’s Day (November 11), and all month long.

• Have the kids in your early childhood education program dress up in red, white and blue (or hold pieces of paper) and simulate an American flag for a photo.
• Got some singing talent in your community? Record members or staff singing a patriotic song like America (My Country, ‘Tis of Thee), America the Beautiful, Star Spangled Banner (the National Anthem), or God Bless America.
• Make blue star banners for families with deployed family members.
• Bake challah and deliver it to the local VA hospital or other veterans group in the community.
• Offer free classes for vets for the week or month of Veterans Day.
• Write thank you postcards/have kids make pictures for the troops and send them to our office to be sent.

Snap a picture and share how you or your organization is going above and beyond this Veteran’s Day with #goaboveandbeyond.