1) The first weekend of GREAT weather.

2) The Indianapolis 500 turns Speedway into the second largest city in Indiana for a day.

3) Cookouts, family, friends and a DAY OFF of work.

But more importantly, we celebrate Memorial Day.  A day to remember all of those who are currently serving, are considering serving, and those who HAVE served.

flickr photo by eddiecoyote

Those who have served in the military do so for the love of their country and the love of freedom.  At HealthNet’s Homeless Initiative Program, we have a special project called the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP).  It is a program that helps veterans who may have fallen on hard times after coming back from tour and found themselves living in shelters, moving from house to house, or even living on the streets.

The HVRP helps homeless veterans in Indianapolis to start the journey back to self-sufficiency, housing and employment by giving them tools to help job search, have successful interviews and maintain an affordable lifestyle.

We want to extend a thank you to all of those in the military or retired, the family members of those who have served, and we especially thank those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.

Would you like to give a special thanks to the military person in YOUR life??  Leave a comment below, give them a shoutout on our Facebook page, or you can even give a gift right to our Homeless Initiative Program in memory or honor of your hero.

While Memorial Day marks the start of the summer vacation season, we are also reminded that is it more than just a party. It is a day dedicated to commemorating U.S. soldiers who died while in the military service. It is a day of remembrance. Many of us honor the memory of a friend or family member; however, let’s not forget those that fought for our country and are now struggling with the aftermath of certain medical and mental health concerns such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and homelessness.

Consider commemorating the lives of those living and departed by flying a U.S. flag. Or, honor our heroes by honoring those that fought beside them that now need a place to turn for help. Honor them by making a contribution to one of many nonprofit organizations providing health care, housing, job training and mental health service to our homeless veterans.

Almost 1 in every 4 homeless persons is a veteran.  Close to 700 veterans in in Marion County are homeless.  During this Memorial Day Weekend, in the midst of the 100th Anniversary of the Greatest Spectacle in Racing, remember that we need to fight for those who fought for us!  It is as easy as donating to our Homeless Initiative Program that includes the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program.

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What are some unique ways that you celebrate Memorial Day?
Any suggestions on other programs that help homeless veterans?
Comment below!

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