Sharing Our Gratitude

Many of you know that May is Military Appreciation Month—historically, this has been a time when the nation publicly shows their appreciation for troops past and present. Truthfully, many veterans have been uncomfortable with this kind of attention for a long time. This year, it feels even more important for us to turn that gratitude around and direct it towards those on the new frontlines of our nation’s current war against COVID-19.

While our worlds have been turned upside down, and it’s admittedly hard to find the silver linings at times, we at The Mission Continues have so much to be grateful for:

• Our community partners are already leading recovery efforts in some of the hardest hit cities across the country. Our team has launched #ThankItForward in an effort to recognize their contributions. To join us in supporting this effort, please click here to send a note of encouragement to these hometown heroes.
• Our volunteer platoon leaders in more than 50 cities have adjusted their routines while also dealing with family, work, school and personal stressors. Coming on the heels of National Volunteer Month in April, I wanted to give a special shout-out to our frontline—our Platoon Leaders. They truly embody the heart and soul of our vision of a nationwide veteran-led movement of service. Our work in under-resourced communities would not be possible without their dedication.
• We are excited to partner with Operation Gratitude for an upcoming cross-sector collaboration: Courage4Heroes. We aim to activate thousands of veterans and volunteers in a campaign to write letters of encouragement and thanks to hundreds of hospitals and first responder departments across the country. All are welcome to participate-more details will be shared soon!
• A huge thank you to all of you who continue to support our #GivingTuesdayNow campaign this week. There are many worthwhile causes to support during this time, and your choice to donate to us is extra special this year. Your gift will help us activate platoons across the country to contribute to recovery efforts.

Personally, I am especially grateful for the continued health and support of my family, friends, team, veterans and community partners. I ache for the devastated families and communities that have lost too many, too soon to this virus and that are struggling during this pandemic. Now more than ever, the country needs compassionate leadership to help with the recovery. I am confident that the leaders in our network will sustain this wave of goodwill and selflessness to create a new normal that is more connected, generous, and kind.

Our team is working diligently to stock up on the personal protection equipment that will allow us to confidently get out to communities to serve where we are most needed. Though it will undoubtedly look different, we’re eager to return to the in-person service projects that are our hallmark, and to address the growing needs of the community partners that make up our extended family.

Charlie Mike,

Mary Beth Bruggeman
President, The Mission Continues