Volunteer Sedona & the Verde Valley is helping kick off America250 this Saturday, June 6, with a drop-in letter-writing event at Community Library Sedona, with the goal of crafting 50 heartfelt messages of thanks to local veterans.
The event, co-hosted by JustServe and Love Cottonwood, runs from noon to 4 p.m. Pre-made cards will be provided, however attendees can bring their own. The finished letters will be distributed to veterans associations throughout Sedona and the Verde Valley ahead of Independence Day
“The 250th celebration of the United States is a big deal, and we want to honor those people who dedicated at least a part of their life to protecting and defending this country,” VSVV Executive Director Spring Graf said. “It’s going to be a very uplifting event.”
“America is celebrating its 250th anniversary, so we wanted to focus on the men and women who have helped make America what it is today and have protected and served our country in so many ways,” JustServe specialist Joyce Talbot said.
A second session is planned for Saturday, June 13, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Cottonwood Public Library, with a goal of 50 additional cards.
“Simple messages of thanks, encouragement, and recognition can make a lasting impact and serve as a meaningful reminder that their service is valued and remembered,” the event description reads. “Through this small act of kindness, the community becomes part of the national America250 celebration while honoring those whose courage helped shape the country’s story.”
Later this year, VSVV is also hosting the Community Care Expo & Volunteer Fair on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Camp Verde Gym & Field at 51 E. Hollamon St. The expo is co-hosted with The Verde Villages and will connect families and volunteers with local organizations with interactive booths, giveaways. To get involved, email ccandpeofficial@gmail.com.
VSVV also has several ongoing volunteer opportunities to support veterans. Visit vsvv.org for a complete list of programs. Visit justserve.org or lovecottonwood.com to learn more about the co-hosting organizations.