Tomorrow marks a holiday with significant importance to every American, whether they realize it or not. It’s Armed Forces Day; One day set aside to honor the brave men and women of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force who put their lives on the line to defend our country. So, today we’ll be sharing some thrift store projects that are relevant to that dedicated lifestyle.
Image via carynchristensen.com
For anyone who has ever dropped their honey off for deployment and counted down to their return, this simple “welcome home” banner probably conjures up strong feelings. For less than $5, blogger Caryn Christensen thrifted the silver tray from Goodwill and turned it into a chalkboard. Using a chalk pen, she added a fancy message to the entryway of her home. Partnered with the comfort of a glowing candle, this little arrangement would warm the heart of any homesick soldier upon their return. It could even be used as a countdown until arrival day! Of course, it could serve a million different purposes over time even if you don’t live with someone in the military, so make sure you check out the full post for details!
Video via youtube.com/user/amazinggoodwill
To pass the time before their return, many family members of those in the armed forces will assemble care packages to send. One of these DIY photo coasters from Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin made with a current family photo would be the perfect item to send abroad with each deployment. They’re slim and sturdy so they’ll travel well alongside your soldier’s favorite snacks and on the way back home again. Over time, your family will build a collection that can serve to remind you each of the strength you’ve gained from the time apart and the challenges you’ve endured together even when distance made it hard.
Image via goodwillsr.wordpress.com
These are the types of little things that the family members of armed forces do to support their loved ones. Goodwill, too, is committed to working with those who serve our country. Over at Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers, Inc. (Columbus, GA), their Powerworks program helps people with disabilities and challenges in finding employment, like Catherine who is pictured above, earn and excel at dependable jobs on a Marine Corps base and a U.S. Army center nearby. Catherine’s story is one of dedication so it will seem familiar to anyone who has ever served. Even when facing barriers to employment, she has always remained positive and done what she could to help others. Read more about Catherine by clicking through to read her story!
Goodwill believes in the power of work to change lives and I think anyone who has ever been close to a member of the armed forces has seen this idea first-hand. We all have our own struggles, but if we can work together for a greater good, there’s no end to the positive changes we can bring. Thank you to all who have served with courage, loyalty, and a deep love of what makes America our home.
