Ideas For Adoption Activities
Suggested Adoption Activities
There are many activities communities and units can engage in. Whatever you plan, be sure you think of the following things before you begin:
1) What will the activity cost? Are there transportation costs involved?
2) How much time and how many people will it take to plan and run the activity?
3) Is there sufficient support in the community for the activity?
4) Is the unit stationed at home or deployed abroad?
5) Have unit members agreed to the activity, if it requires their attendance?
With these questions in mind, here are some activities to consider. . . .
Sending Letters & Care Packages
Unit members love receiving letters and care packages. These can be sent by school and community groups. Or you can look the Ideas for Care Packages page included on our website.
Having Unit Members Speak to School and Community Groups
Many unit members enjoy coming to talk to school and community groups, when they are stationed at home and are able to do this. the Youth Civic Action and Awareness Program (YCAP) encourages teachers to integrate adoption activities into the classroom. (Visit the YCAP page for more information on this program.)
Holding Parades and Hosting Parties
Whether it’s the 4th of July, Memorial Day, or Veterans’ Day, both community residents and unit members can enjoy a parade! Going away parties for units being deployed and homecoming parties for units returning from abroad are also a great idea. Just remember there may be transportation costs involved for unit members to travel to the adoptive community, so fundraising may be needed. Plan ahead!
Exchanging Awards and Holding Recognition Ceremonies
It is a good idea to create opportunities to recognize unit members for their military service and for their involvement in your community’s adoption program. It is also good to give them the opportunity to recognize community residents who have been particularly supportive and committed to working with the adoption program and adoption activities.
Showing Support for Family Members of Units Deployed Abroad
It is often difficult for families of service men and women when their loved ones are deployed abroad. Finding ways to show community support for them, particularly if a unit member is wounded or makes the ultimate sacrifice, is an excellent thing to do. Notes, cards, letters of support from the Mayor, and even meals delivered by caring neighbors during a difficult time are all things to consider.