KCVA Stand Down — September 2024

This summer I missed the hours of toothpaste sorting, the overwhelming smell of Irish Spring Soap, and boxes filled with shampoo falling on my head that the Heart of America Stand Down had to offer. However, since 2024 the Kansas City Veterans Association Stand Down has stepped in to serve veterans in need in the KC area.

The Heart of American Stand Down I grew up with was shut down during the pandemic, but just last year the KCVA brought back an annual Stand Down to serve veterans — and of course Kids4Vets was there.

Kids4Vets volunteers Grace, Bella, and Luciana along with my younger brother Jack and my mom all attended the Stand Down on September 10. This year we didn’t do a collection as in the past but the seven of us spent hours carrying bags for veterans, getting supplies for them, and giving directions. Each of us had the opportunity to meet and talk to veterans and learn their stories — my favorite part of the Stand Down.

After six hours of volunteering in the September heat, and many donuts later we served over 400 veterans. So, same time next year?