Helping Those Who Served on Our Behalf
Joan DiPiero
By Joan DiPiero
Community Engagement Coordinator
Memorial Day may be the traditional start of all things summer, but there is more to the day than hot dogs and swimming pools.
Memorial Day is a time to honor those lost in wars and pay tribute to their sacrifices. Begun shortly after the Civil War, Memorial Day has grown to encompass all wars in which American men and women fought.
It is fitting that the COD campus will host the traveling Vietnam Wall this month. It is also fitting to acknowledge those still with us by supporting veterans and their families. COD’s Student Veterans Association provides camaraderie and support to our military-connected students so that they can thrive in their college experience. In turn, these students give back to their fellow veterans and invite you to volunteer with some of their partner organizations this summer.
Road Home Program is dedicated to the mental health and wellness of veterans, service members, members of the National Guard, reservists and families at no cost and regardless of discharge status. Find out how to support Road Home projects.
Hinsdale Humane Society nurtures the healing powers of the human-animal bonds through the BJ Chimenti Angel Fund for Veterans and Pets and Veterans Pet Therapy.
Founded by Vietnam War veteran Bob Adams and Gulf War veteran Dirk Enger in 2007, Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans provides housing, supportive services and community outreach to help homeless and at-risk veterans and their families achieve self-sufficiency. Volunteer or donate to the commissary.
Operation Support Our Troops supports the morale and well-being of American forces by providing comfort, resources and education to them and their families both while they are deployed in harm’s way and after their return. Donate comfort package items or volunteer time at the warehouse in Lisle.
Returning home can be a difficult journey. Support Over Stigma helps military, veterans and first responders overcome their mental health and service-related challenges. Volunteer opportunities include staffing events, sharing skills and filling care packages.
If you are interested in other volunteer opportunities or would like more information about COD’s Veterans Services, contact Sheri Gross, manager of the College’s Veterans Services, at grosss384@cod.edu.
Get involved
Reach out to COD’s Community Engagement at contactus@cod.edu.