VA Summer of Service: Giving back

Regardless of where you live, there’s an opportunity for you to give back this summer. Department of Veterans Affairs is happy to announce the annual Summer of Service, providing support to Veteran causes across the nation. For those who served, take some time this summer to show our Veterans how much you care.

“While there is more work to do to honor our sacred commitment to Veterans, we also recognize that VA cannot do it alone,” Secretary Bob McDonald said. “We are asking Americans everywhere to join the Summer of Service and help us give back to those who have given so much to our nation.”

Starting Sunday, June 28, VA will host open houses to answer questions and sign up volunteers. When you join us for your Summer of Service, you’ll be helping to:

• Expand access to care
• Help reduce homelessness
• Host Veterans events

Summer of Service contributes to our 76,000-person volunteer force. Though we are thankful for all their help, VA handles more than 46 million appointments last year. That means there are still many ways to get involved, both big and small.

Summer of Service also gives those looking to begin their career at VA the chance to meet and interact with current VA employees. Recruiters and HR professionals who review job applications like to see volunteer work on a resume. This helps your resume stand out among the many others they receive.

If you’re ready to start a career at VA, visit VACareers.va.gov, and be sure to take the first step in making a difference by signing up to volunteer at va.gov/VASummerofService.

VA takes its commitment to care for the nation’s Veterans and their families very seriously, and this summer, we invite all of you to join in that commitment. Community by community, state by state, our nation can work together to serve Veterans during the VA Summer of Service.

• Look for VA at community events and engage our employees and partners.
• Reach out to your local medical facility or National Cemetery to find out what you can do to help.
• Check out #VASummerOfService on Vantage Point, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, and join VA in caring for America’s Veterans.