We know that we’re a bit early, but Veteran’s Day is right around the corner. In only one short week, we will be celebrating our veterans on the 11^th hour on the 11^th day of the 11^th month of the year.

According to the US Census Bureau, there are over 21 million living veterans in the United States. On Veteran’s Day, we all get a chance to thank these heroes for their service, but as Lions, we have an opportunity to go one step further. We can show our appreciation by inviting them to serve with our clubs and reconnect with their communities.

In July 2013, Lions Club International introduced the Involve a Veteran Program. From now until June 30, 2017, qualifying veterans will receive waived entrance and chartered fees when they join a Lions Club. Eligible veterans include all branches of the US military – Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard personnel who are retired or honorably discharged. The National Guard and Reserve personnel who were called to active duty for other training are also eligible. Learn more about the program.

You can invite Veterans to your club with these simple recruiting tips:

• Exhibit at a Veteran community event. (Now you can see why this post is a little early.)
• Invite veterans to help serve at one of your club’s community projects.
• Leave club brochures at your local VFW. There are over 30 locations in Wisconsin alone; find a location near you.
• Honor veterans on your club’s social media accounts.
• Start a new club branch with Veteran members.

This Veteran’s Day, join the 700 clubs that have taken advantage of this program and given veterans the chance to continue serving as a Lion.

Happy Veteran’s Day from all of us at Lions Pride!