Show Your Patriotism for Just $11

by Gary Toebben

Every Veterans Day we celebrate those few among us who have done so much for so many. Through bravery and sacrifice of life and health, our men and women in uniform give so much and ask so little in defending our country. On Nov. 11 each year we honor those who have served. Yet after the parades end, the speeches conclude, the picnics are packed up and the bunting is taken down, we all return to our everyday lives, while the real struggle continues for so many that we just exalted.

For too many veterans, the only spoils of war and service are crushing physical and mental ailments. This leads to numerous challenges and obstacles with the starkest being the number of veterans who are homeless on the streets of Los Angeles and other cities across our nation. It is a shame upon all of us that those who were willing to give the ultimate sacrifice now lie huddled in the cold.

Beginning in 2010, the L.A. Area Chamber of Commerce began a partnership with the United Way of Greater Los Angeles called Home for Good. We have made great strides in providing permanent supportive housing for veterans, but our work is far from done.

Today I challenge all of us to do more than take the day off to commemorate our veterans or hang the stars and stripes outside our homes and businesses. Right now there are two opportunities for you to take action. Join with Mayor Garcetti and the Chamber in donating $11or more to help pay the final move in costs for 500 homeless veterans. Then send this invitation to your friends, family and business associates and encourage them to do the same.

For the cost of one meal, for just $11 on 11/11, you can help cover security deposits, basic furniture and other final barriers to providing 500 veterans with a home. 

Don’t stop there. On Nov. 21 join the United Way, the Chamber and so many others in supporting HomeWalk. Put on your walking shoes and take part in this fundraiser for Home for Good.

Today is one of those times when words can inspire, but they are hollow without action. Let’s show our patriotism with a small sacrifice for those who made our way of life possible.

And that's The Business Perspective.