How Can You Help Military Families?

Volunteering to help military families can be a rewarding way to give back to those who serve the country.

Military families often face unique challenges, including frequent relocations, long deployments, and the stress of having a loved one in service.

Volunteering to help care for their lawns and yards provides tangible support, shows appreciation for their sacrifices, eases some of their burdens and creates heathier neighborhood green spaces. That is what Project EverGreen’s GreenCare for Troops program has done for military families across the United States since 2006.

Now in its 18^th year, GreenCare for Troops has provided an estimated $20 million in donated lawn and landscape services and peace of mind to 20,000 military families in need across the country since the program’s inception. And the need continues. In the last year, the GreenCare for Troops program has seen a 13 percent increase in requests from military families for services.

When you volunteer, you’re generously providing these benefits to deployed military families:

• Promotes environmentally healthier and safe green spaces
• Encourages outdoor activities
• Enhances mental health and well-being
• Builds community
• Provides stability and peace of mind
• Improves property value and curb appeal
• Demonstrates appreciation and gratitude

Ways to Help Military Families

There are several ways you can help military families in your community. By getting involved in any of these ways, you can make a significant difference in the lives of military families.

1. Join or Support Military-Focused Organizations:
   • USO (United Service Organizations): They provide programs, services, and live entertainment to United States service members and their families.
   • Operation Homefront: This organization provides financial assistance, housing, and support services to military families.
   • Blue Star Families: They offer support to military families through various programs and resources.
2. Volunteer Locally:
   • Family Readiness Groups (FRGs): Many military bases have FRGs that support families, especially during deployments. Contact a local military base to find out how you can assist.
   • Local Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospitals: Volunteer at VA hospitals to support veterans and their families through various services.
3. Offer Professional Services:
   • Financial Counseling: Help military families with budgeting, financial planning, and managing benefits.
   • Legal Assistance: Provide pro bono legal services to assist with wills, powers of attorney, and other legal matters.
   • Healthcare Services: If you have medical or mental health training, volunteer to provide care or support.
4. Provide Emotional Support:
   • Mentorship Programs: Offer to mentor military children or spouses, helping them navigate the unique challenges they face.
   • Support Groups: Facilitate or participate in support groups for military families.
5. Donate and Fundraise:
   • Care Packages: Organize or contribute to sending care packages to deployed service members and their families.
   • Fundraising Events: Host or participate in fundraising events to support military charities and initiatives.
6. Community Involvement:
   • School Programs: Support or start programs in local schools that cater to children from military families.
   • Community Events: Help organize community events that honor and support military families, such as picnics, holiday celebrations, or appreciation days.

Become A Volunteer Today

Are you ready to step up for a military family? Register today

The Title Sponsor of the GreenCare for Troops program Title Sponsor is Nufarm. SnowCare for Troops program in BOSS Snowplow. Platinum Partners include Toro, SiteOne Landscape Supply, AMGUARD Environmental Sciences  and Heritage Landscape Supply. The Silver Partner is Arborjet/Ecologel.

Affiliate Partners include the Connecticut Grounds Keepers Association and the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association.

GreenCare for Troops is endorsed by the National Association of Landscape Professionals