From L-R: JCF Sgt. Ricardo McCalpin, Chairman Ja. Ch. (JaExsmwfnd), Maj. Heleda Thompson, JDF Veterans affairs, Ms Norva Frazer, Welfare officer Ja. Legion, retired WO2 Yvonne Foster, admin officer Ja Legion, retired Lt Col Michael Anglin, senior admin officer Ja. Legion, retired JDF Cpl Stafford Grant, CEO/Founder JaExsmwfnd and Dr Jurian Thomas, Trustee of the Jamaica Ex-servicemen & Women Foundation inc.
Handing over donated washing machine to the Jamaica Legion by the CEO/Founder of the Jamaica Ex-servicemen and Women Foundation ( JaExsmwfnd inc.) Stafford Grant, in collaboration with retired JDF Cpl Patrick Freeman.
As we go about our daily lives, it’s easy to forget the sacrifices made by our nation’s heroes. Veterans have risked their lives, faced unimaginable challenges, and left behind loved ones to serve and protect our country.
It’s our turn to show them the sympathy and kindness they deserve. Here are some ways to make a positive impact in a veteran’s life: Listen with compassion: Sometimes, all a veteran needs is someone to listen to their story. Be present, empathetic, and understanding. Offer practical help, help with errands, household chores, or yard work. These small gestures can go a long way in showing your appreciation. Donate to or volunteer with organizations that provide vital services to veterans, such as healthcare, education, and employment assistance. Show gratitude, express your thanks through a simple “thank you for your service” or a heartfelt letter.
These words of appreciation can brighten a veteran’s day. Be patient and understanding, recognize that veterans may be dealing with physical or emotional challenges. Be patient and understanding when interacting with them. By showing sympathy and kidness to veterans, we can demonstrate our gratitude for their sacrifices and let them know that we care. So take a moment to thank a veteran, offer a helping hand, or simple listen to their plea. Together, we can make a positive impact in the lives of those who have give so much for our country.
Adjusting to civilian life after serving.
The true strength of a person isn’t measured by what they can endure alone, but by the community they build and the victories they achieve together.
Nick Paterson
For many veterans, the transition to civilian life can be challenging, with feelings of isolation, loss of purpose, and physical injuries. and for some veterans, engaging in sports provides not only a way to stay fit but also an opportunity to reconnect with others, find camaraderie, and discover new passions.
Research has shown that physical activity can improve mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, sports provide a structured environment that helps veterans build confidence, discipline, and a sense of accomplishment traits that are often cultivated during their time in service.
As part of our ongoing mission to empower and uplift veterans, the Jamaica Ex-servicemen and Women Foundation inc. (JAEXSMWFND) has launched a Veterans volunteering Initiative, a program designed to bring together ex-servicemen and women through networking sport activities.
The program will also feature adaptive sports, catering to veterans with physical disabilities. These sports are tailored to encourage participation regardless of physical limitations and offer a new sense of accomplishment and pride.
The goal of our sports program goes beyond just physical health. We aim to create a strong, supportive community where veterans can form lasting friendships, engage in healthy competition, and share experiences. Our sports events will foster teamwork and build trust, reminding veterans that they are never alone in their journey.
In addition to the mental and physical benefits, we believe that sports will help raise awareness about the needs and challenges faced by veterans. Hosting community sports events allows us to engage the public and foster a greater understanding of the sacrifices made by our veterans. These events will also serve as fundraising opportunities, helping to generate much-needed funds for our ongoing support programs.
As we move forward with this initiative, we’re excited to witness the positive impact it will have on the lives of our veterans. The strength, resilience, and determination that our veterans displayed during their service will undoubtedly translate into their success in sports. Together, we can help our veterans heal, thrive, and build a brighter future through the power of sports.
Stay tuned for upcoming sports and fundraising events, and don’t forget to follow us on social media for updates and ways to get involved. Join us in making a meaningful difference in the lives of our heroes!