Accessible Memorial Day Activities
Memorial Day is a time to recognize the brave United States armed forces service members who made the ultimate sacrifice by giving their lives for their country. Accessibility Services, Inc. (ASI) is passionate about recognizing all those who have served, but we hold a very special place in our hearts for those who perished in the line of duty.
Team ASI will be honoring military heroes in various ways this Memorial Day. We encourage you to also take this day to remember and honor those who have perished. We’ve made a list of accessible Memorial Day activities to help you participate in this cherished day of remembrance.
Donate flowers to a soldier’s grave
This is a great activity for everyone – including caregivers and family members – to participate in to honor our country’s fallen military heroes. The Memorial Day Flowers Foundation needs volunteers to place flowers in front of headstones at National Cemeteries throughout the country. As each flower is placed, volunteers quietly read the inscription and thank the deceased military member for their service and sacrifice.
Help build a home for a Veteran
Building Homes for Heroes has volunteer opportunities for everyone. This nationwide partnership of communities and corporations work together to make our country a better place by serving our nation’s heroes. Building Homes for Heroes hopes to reach 343 homes by Sept. 11, 2023 – in honor of the 343 FDNY firefighters who died on 9/11 – and a milestone 400th home by 2024.
Shop at a Veteran-Owned business
Supporting Veteran-Owned businesses is easy and helps support those who have served. Additionally, it’s an opportunity to shop local and support your community. Simply conduct a Google search for “veteran owned businesses near me” to get started.
Learn to play a patriotic song or create your own playlist
Dust off your six-string and practice strumming a patriotic tune! Use the autonoME to browse YouTube for your favorite songs like, “God Bless the USA.” Echoes of Heroes also has some great resources. Check out their video gallery of original patriotic songs.
Watch the PBS Memorial Day Concert
You can watch this special concert to commemorate service members who have perished in the line of duty live from your autonoME on Sunday May 28th.
Take a virtual tour of the White House
Technology gives us the opportunity to experience places we might otherwise not be able to see. Head to Google Arts & Culture to tour historical American places, including the White House.
Make your own Memorial Day poppy
Poppies, specifically red poppies, are worn to commemorate the sacrifices made during wartime by U.S. soldiers. Making a Memorial Day poppy pin is fun and easy. There are many online resources outlining how to do it. Here is one of our faves.
Write letters to soldiers
A Million Thanks supports active duty military and their families by sending cards and letters of appreciation to U.S. service members around the world.
Pack care packages for soldiers
Operation Gratitude has delivered nearly four million care packages to members of the United States military and first responders over the past 20 years.
Adopt a soldier
Ladies of Liberty supports women who are serving overseas. Soldier Angels are needed to help provide personal care items (i.e., lotion, body wash, hairbands, shampoo, etc.) as well a leisure materials such as books, magazines, adult coloring books, etc.
Attend a Memorial Day parade
Memorial Day parades occur in most major cities and in many suburban areas throughout the country. Simply conduct a quick Google search for “Memorial Day parades and activities near me” to find out what is happening in your area. Oh, and don’t forget to wear your paper poppy pin you made!
Participate in the Veterans Heritage Project
The Veterans Heritage Project connects students with veterans to help preserve their stories for generations to come. Scholarship opportunities are available for participating students. Get involved by making a donation or volunteering.
Watch Films
Watch films like Black Hawk Down, Megan Leavey & Max, and Saving Private Ryan – based on the lives of real service members, their courage, and the sacrifice’s they’ve made for their country.
Cemetery Visit
Visit your local cemetery and volunteer to leave flags on the graves of soldiers.
Share
Try a new recipe and share with friends and neighbors, holding a moment of silence for fallen service members.
Donate to the USO
The USO was founded more than 80 years ago and still stands strong today. Consider supporting this worthy cause that provides various types of support to active duty service members.
