On January 17, 2011, the YMCA AmeriCorps team coordinated, created, and organized a pot-luck for homeless veterans throughout the Greater Milwaukee area. Furthermore, they attained donations from local businesses/organizations & recruited WECA, another AmeriCorps program in the Milwaukee area, teens, and adults to help in their efforts. They were going to provide meals to over 40 veterans; however, with the horrible weather, they were able to provide meals to 10 veterans.  Even though they were disappointed at their numbers initially, they realized that they made the difference in the lives of these 10 veterans. The veterans were very appreciative & loved the event. 

No longer was it simply another “Day of Service”. No longer was it simply another task, another act of kindness but rather something that meant more- as they why their service was so necessary- and how much our veterans need support when they come home.

MLK day for my members this year was one they will not soon forget.  The Veterans that we got to serve I believe appreciated it more then could even be expressed. It made the members feel like they were doing the right thing by serving and by loving.  They were grateful that it was a Day On, not a Day Off.  The members felt fortunate enough to touch the life of just one of the veterans there in just a fraction of the way it impacted them, they know that they have served in the greatest possible way.

With that in mind, since their event did not go as planned in terms of numbers.  On Saturday, May 21, 2011, from 11:00 am-2:00 pm the YMCA AmeriCorps team and Vet’s Place Central are joining together on Armed Forces Day to honor the men and women who have risked their lives serving our country.

 Over 300 veterans & and their families plan to attend this honorary, but fun event. 

 The YMCA AmeriCorps members have been working hard at attaining food donations from local businesses and organizations, recruiting volunteers & local musicians, and creating/coordinating the event.

 There will be live music, games, food, and so much more. 

 The YMCA AmeriCorps members created this event because they want to give thanks to the veterans of Milwaukee. 

 The YMCA AmeriCorps team is committed to get things done and continue to make a difference throughout the Milwaukee community.

 “Life’s most urgent and persistent questions is what are you doing for others?”  The YMCA AmeriCorps team answered that questioned when they came together and made a difference in the lives of 10 veterans & each other.