I usually oppose government spending. Nonetheless, the way to lower spending is to stop hiring workers, rather than decrease the benefits and pay of workers. I speak here of our brave veterans. I find it highly disturbing how poorly we and our government treat our veterans. While cutting veterans benefits, congress continually decides to raise their own salaries!
The U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) estimates that nearly 200,000 veterans are homeless on any given night. And more than half a million experience homelessness over the course of a year. (Information from National Coalition for Homeless Veterans)
On this veterans’ day, let us promise to no longer let our veterans suffer! Let us no longer let our veterans remain homeless, poor, or hungry! Since the government that sent these brave men and women to war fails to fully provide for them, let us help these brave men and women ourselves. Through private charities and other private means we can help the veterans.
Unfortunately, many veterans charities are inefficient or corrupt, with only pennies on the dollar going to help the veterans. Many times, the donated money is wasted on fundraising costs and by paying the hefty salaries of paying the CEOs of these so-called “non-profits.” For example, of the 22 veterans charities evaluated by Charity Navigator more than 1/3 have fundraising expenses over 20%, with 3 charities spending more than 50% on fundraising and 2 charities spending more than 95% of your donations on fundraising!
When we go to give to the veterans through charities, let us make sure we perform due diligence, and verify the efficiency and helpfulness of the charity.
A great way to ensure the effectiveness of one’s funds is by giving locally. In this way, we may even be able to work directly with veterans. Also, if you know a veteran, whether poor or not, why not do something to help them this veterans day, such as making them a dinner or just giving them a call and saying thanks.
- Here’s a list of 4 of the most efficient and effective veterans charities:
- Fisher House Foundation
- Disabled American Veterans Charitable Service Trust
- Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society
- Coast Guard Foundation
I really don’t think non VETS care because it’s rare to see them even put down 50 cents for a small FLAG
Vegas Lexington,
I’m a non-vet and I’m anti-war, but I still care. I wouldn’t buy a FLAG(?), though. Why would I waste $0.50 on a flag, when I could put that money to a better cause, such as helping veterans? A flag is just a symbol which has different meanings to different people; giving $0.50 to a veteran or anyone is a direct action that has an objective effect.
Anyway, let us not judge others, but just ask for compassion. Everyone has their own situation, and everyone does what they personally think is best.
Peace and prosperity to the veterans,
Scott Hughes