With communities around the U.S. observing Veterans Day this week to honor all those who have served in the armed forces, rec centers are running their own unique programs to show their support.
Below, discover how six organizations from around the country are embracing Veterans Day by honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
YMCA of South Florida’s Veterans Day Salute
The YMCA of South Florida’s 12th Annual Veterans Day Salute featured a breakfast, gathering 500 veterans, community leaders, and valued community partners to honor their service and sacrifice on Friday, November 6.
The event featured a keynote address delivered by Captain Charlie Plumb, former Navy Fighter Pilot and Vietnam War POW, sharing insights and stories that resonate with the spirit of Veterans Day. All veterans in attendance receive a special gift including a challenge coin, shirt and more.
Proceeds from this event provide financial support to veterans and their families, granting them access to the Y and the organization’s programming.
YMCA of Greater Indianapolis’ Hero Challenge
On Wednesday, November 11, the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis will be hosting its annual Veterans Day Hero Challenge at the Jordan and Fishers YMCA branches.
This workout — completing 1,000 step-ups at various heights, with or without weights — honors Navy SEAL Chad Wilkinson, who took his life on October 29, 2018. After numerous deployments, Wilkinson suffered from the effects of several traumatic brain injuries, blast wave injuries, and PTSD.
The Y’s goal is to not only bring awareness to the epidemic of suicide and mental health, particularly among veterans, but also to help be a part of the solution. Proceeds from this event will support veterans programs and services at the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis.
The Tribute Swim at Pozez JCC of Northern Virginia
On Veterans Day, Pozez JCC of Northern Virginia will host its second annual Tribute Swim as the J honors and celebrate community Veterans through recognizing their service, sacrifice and dedication.
Participants are invited to swim 18 lengths (450 meters) in tribute to the men and women who have served.
Swimmers can dedicate their swim to a veteran by writing their name on the J’s Wall of Honor, which will be displayed on the pool deck throughout the event. Light refreshments will be provided, and veterans and their family can attend the event for free.
Greater Philadelphia YMCA’s Veterans Wellness Program
This program offers programming tailored to veterans and provides a free Y membership to the veteran and a designated support person. The support person may be a spouse, friend or another person chosen by the veteran.
Participants in the Veterans Wellness Program receive the following benefits:
- 12-week program with complimentary Y family membership.
- Access to virtual content including live and on-demand workouts, cooking demos and more.
- An educational virtual meeting and one in-person group workout each week.
- Twice weekly meetings for 60 minutes with a focus on fitness, mental health, mindfulness, nutrition and overall well-being.
- Pre- and post-program surveys for goal setting and tracking.
- A free six-month adult membership to the Y.
Veterans Day Parade Paricipation
The Attleboro Norton YMCA in Massachusetts is proud to participate in this year’s Norton Veterans Day Parade, and is inviting Y members, veterans, military families, and community members to walk alongside the organization.
Veterans, loved ones or those who simply want to show their support may walk in the parade on Veterans Day. The Y also hosted a free brunch for veterans on November 9.
Flags for Heroes at Countryside YMCA
As part of its annual Veterans Day celebration, the Countryside YMCA will once again fill the Y’s lawn with American flags honoring loved ones who have served. Flags may be dedicated for a $5 donation, with proceeds helping support the celebration.
The program will include:
- Presentation of the Colors by Little Miami High School JROTC.
- Performances by the Little Miami Select Choir and the Lebanon High School Wind Ensemble.
- A 21-gun salute by the Warren County Sheriff’s Department Honor Guard and Pipe & Drum Corps.
- Guest speaker Lt. Gen. John L. “Jack” Hudson, USAF (Ret.).
- Announcement of the Veteran of the Year for Warren and Hamilton Counties.
The Y especially welcomes veterans and their families to join the organization for this meaningful community celebration.
