Photo: (Getty)
Memorial Day is great for a lot of things: You get a three-day weekend, it's the start of the summer season, and there's usually tons of great food and fun to be had. But remember, there's a reason we get a 24-hour reprieve from the workweek: It's a day to remember those who have lost their lives in service to our country.
If you're looking for some fun and meaningful ways to give back in honor of those who died for our freedom, we've got you covered. Here are three ways to give back this Memorial Day:
+ Write A Letter
If you're looking for a way to help the troops who are currently serving our country as a way to give back this Memorial Day, why not send them a letter? Pull a Taylor Swift and get all your thoughts down on the page! Your note of support is an awesome way to boost morale and let the troops know you're thinking about them. All you need is a pen and paper, so bring some to the BBQ for your family and friends, too!
+ Werk Out for Wounded Warriors
If you're a bit of a daredevil and want a fun way to support our troops, this is for you. After you've eaten all the BBQ and red, white, and blue-colored popsicles you can stand, you should use the rest of your day off to get in your first training session for the Tough Mudder challenge. The 10-12 mile obstacle course was designed by British Special Forces, so the challenge is hardcore to say the least. By joining in and becoming a Tough Mudder, you'll be doing your part to support our soldiers: The events have already raised more than $5 million for the Wounded Warrior Project! Know what that means? It's time to start stretching.
+ Be a Crowdrise Champ for Your Vet
Crowdrise partnered with craigconnects and The Rahr Foundation to honor veterans and military families in its latest challenge. The Veterans Charity Challenge runs from May 23 to July 3, and the organizations involved will give away $100,000 to the three teams that raise the most for their cause by the end of the challenge. If you're sitting around your loved ones this Memorial Day, why not challenge them to give up the cost of an iced coffee for a good cause? It's a simple, thoughtful way to give back in honor of those who have lost their lives in service to our country.
For more ways to give back to vets and honor those who have died in the line of duty, take action below.