Empathy in action: How “Angel” volunteers change Veteran lives

Disclaimer: The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA.

Every day, countless Veterans and service members rely on VA medical facilities for healing and support. While these facilities provide essential services, the emotional and personal support offered by volunteers is unparalleled in its impact. This is where the national nonprofit Soldiers’ Angels steps in, bridging the gap with compassion and dedication through our incredible volunteer network.

Volunteerism rebounds

Our volunteers are literally the backbone of our organization and following the impact of COVID-19 health restrictions, we, like many organizations, have seen volunteerism on the rise. A recent volunteerism survey reveals that 28.3%, equivalent to nearly 76 million Americans, volunteered with a nonprofit organization between September 2022 and September 2023. This indicates a significant recovery compared to the 23.2% rate recorded in 2021, during the peak of public health shutdowns. While it’s not back up to pre-pandemic levels quite yet, the upward trend is encouraging.

One surprising development is the rise of virtual volunteering. For the first time, the survey asked participants to specify whether their volunteering was done partially or entirely online, and an impressive 18% said it was. This embracing of digital volunteerism can only serve to widen access to giving opportunities, making it easier than ever for interested individuals to make their mark. Despite the initial drop in participation due to the pandemic, it seems that volunteering is not only surviving but adapting and growing to meet new challenges.

Your role as a volunteer

Whether you’re lending a listening ear at a VA hospital or sending morale-boosting care packages from your living room, every act of kindness you offer makes a world of difference. At Soldiers’ Angels, our volunteers bring hope and comfort to those who have given so much for our nation.

Virtual volunteering opportunities

• Send cheer from afar: Participate in our year-round campaigns like Treats for Troops or Warm Feet for Warriors, where your contributions can warm the hearts (and feet!) of our military community.
• A personal touch: “Adopt” a service member and provide ongoing support throughout their deployment with letters, care packages and more.
• Support caregivers: Offer a shoulder to lean on to the caregivers of wounded heroes, recognizing their invaluable role in the recovery process.

In-person volunteering opportunities

• Direct impact at VA facilities: Spend time with Veterans, offering companionship during patient visits, organizing luncheons and participating in activities that bring joy.
• Feed service members in need: Join efforts at our food distribution events in cities nationwide, ensuring no Veteran or service member goes hungry.
• Community engagement: Engage in local events like deployment send-offs, Stand Downs and more, strengthening the bond within our military-connected community.

Volunteers are more than just a helping hand—they’re a symbol of gratitude and respect. By joining our team, you help uplift those who have protected our freedoms and stand with them as they transition back into civilian life. Your involvement ensures that their sacrifices never go unnoticed.

Join our global network

Soldiers’ Angels is proud to boast volunteers from all 50 states and more than 31 countries worldwide. By becoming an Angel volunteer, you join a global community passionate about honoring and supporting our military families, service members and Veterans.

Getting started is easy. Simply visit SoldiersAngels.org/Volunteer to register. Whether you’re near a VA facility or prefer to volunteer from your home, there’s a place for you in our network.

Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of those who have served. Become an Angel today and help us continue to support our nation’s heroes with the dignity and respect they deserve.