By Grant Sheehan and Anthony Hernandez
Every year, many Americans celebrate the joy of family and relief from work the holidays bring. Apart from the hustle and bustle, the holiday season is a special time to be with loved ones, engaging in family traditions and rituals, and making memories that will last a lifetime. However, not everyone gets to partake in the holiday gatherings.
First, there are over a hundred thousand military members serving in harm’s way or in 24-hour command centers ready to strike if and when our security is threatened. They constantly train and prepare for these moments in the hope they will never have to fully employ their expertise and skills. We sleep well because young men and women answer their country’s call to duty.
Likewise, we also remember the tens of thousands who serve as of first responders, firefighters, paramedics, police officers, dispatchers, corrections officers, and hospital workers. These are local heroes who take emergency calls, protect and defend our neighborhoods, run towards danger, and fight like hell to keep us alive. Not just during Christmas, but every day on the calendar.
Finally, we must also recognize those who work hard to provide the food, deliver the gifts and services, and the means to travel so we can celebrate the holidays together. There are farmers and ranchers, food inspectors, truck drivers, warehouse operators, air traffic controllers, airline, rail, and bus drivers, retailers, and main street shop owners. Plus, let’s not forget all the grocery store workers and the sacrifices they make, especially during COVID.
The point is there are thousands of Americans who stand watch and serve while the rest of us celebrate. They will miss the warm family gatherings, watching their kids open their presents, or getting some extra sleep. At the same time, they will deal with other people’s problems while silently experiencing feelings of loneliness and other hardships. Deep down, they know they can never replace the valuable time and presence meant for many spouses and kids who have to deal with their absence. It is not the first or last time their families will make these adjustments while putting on a happy face for the sake of family harmony.
Yet, They Still Answer The Call!
Here are some ways credit unions can support all who serve.
1. Recognize their sacrifice with simple actions. It can be an easy “thank you” or simply write it on your business card. Sometimes a short message on social media that “tags” any of the organizations that employ the heroes mentioned above can create an avalanche of thanks. The good news is that it doesn’t cost you anything more than finding a way to say, “Thanks!”
2. Protect those who protect us. Many military members and first responders quietly hide their post-trauma stress levels. Whether it is the constant threat of hostile action, responding to a series of emergency calls, another senseless automobile accident, a preventable house fire, a violent domestic situation, or trying to save a life in the emergency room, each of these heroes are near or in danger all the time. The emotional toll is very high and accumulates with each shift. Learn how to recognize the signs and how to properly offer help. Plus, you can donate to mental health and wellness programs, many which are sponsored by your credit union.
3. Support their families. There are many charities and credit union foundations that offer exceptional programs offering holiday meals and gift cards. Additionally, if you know the family, offer help with childcare, home repairs, or simple yardwork. Volunteer work is part of the credit union ethos. Plus, it is always a nice gesture to invite those left behind to join your family’s holiday celebrations while acknowledging and thanking their loved ones for their service.
4. Visit their place of work and share some goodwill. Drop off baked goods, snacks, coffee, or meals. Take your kids with you to teach the next generation how to be thankful. Even if all you can do is leave a simple “thank you” card on the office bulletin board, it will go a long way. Plus, when was the last time you thanked the person stocking the shelves or checking items you forgot to buy at the grocery store late on Christmas Eve?
5. Be a great neighbor. Check on families whose loved ones must serve and work over the holidays. Pay special attention to elderly and disabled neighbors. Drive safely, watch for winter conditions, control impulses leading to road rage, and avoid driving under the influence. Follow fire and safety precautions. Don’t overindulge in alcohol consumption or eat too much. Keep away from illegal drugs and narcotics. Consider each of these meaningful proactive measures as both an individual and a community contribution to all those who are serving over the holidays.
In the credit union world, we often pride ourselves when we can promote and demonstrate our “People Helping People” ethic. We also like to remind each other to “Be Kind, Do Good.” Imagine the impact when the recommendations above are implemented throughout the year, adding teachers, pastors, and our own credit union staff.
Have a wonderful holiday, spread some good cheer and be sure to THANK those who make it all possible.
Grant Sheehan is the Founder and Executive Director/CEO of the National Council of Firefighters Credit Unions. Anthony Hernandez is the President and CEO of the Defense Credit Union Council.