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REMEMBRANCE DAY TRADITION AT RISK
Could the long-held tradition of fundraising around Remembrance Day and Anzac Day by local military charities and veterans' associations be at risk?
Each year more and more veterans groups say they are finding it harder to get people to run their fundraising stalls or street appeals. For most it is simply because their members are getting older and although the veterans want to support their club, many just cannot physically manage a full day’s fundraising.
Earle Jennings, National President of the National Serviceman’s Association, says it will soon be up to the next generation of veterans to carry the tradition forward.
“The older veterans in my local branch are still keen to get out there because they know that the funds raised really do benefit other veterans and families,” Earle said. “A lot of people mistakenly believe just because you’re a veteran you get all manner of help directly from Government but the reality is charities provide much of the support needed."
“Nowadays most of what we raise through fundraising goes to things like providing wheelchairs, home support services, transporting people to medical appointments and, as is the case when your members are all getting-on, providing funeral benefits to help the families.”
The issue is the same for many local branches of charities such as Legacy and the RSL.
Earle says people can support veterans in their community by volunteering to help out.
“I know the Nashos would welcome individuals, local scout groups, cadets, or schools wanting to get involved. It is a very rewarding thing to do because you get to meet some fantastic people who share our national pride in those who have served and at the end of the day you are helping our veterans.”
People interested in helping out can find details for their local charities online. For Nashos, Earle says people can also leave their name at a fundraising stall.
The team behind Military Voice has been supporting local veteran charities for decades and has worked with many to create new products to broaden the appeals and raise more funds.
If you want to find your local charity you can email Military Voice and we’ll put you in touch or you can search the links here.
