In recognition of military appreciation month, YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School teamed up with CBS 3 Philadelphia (CBS Philly) to host a “Coffee With Veterans” event to honor all veterans for their service.
The event kicked off on a chilly day in West Philadelphia the Monday morning of the event, but a free hot cup of coffee was just what our veterans needed to get their day started. YouthBuild Philly Business Administration Students (BAS) had the honor of serving our veterans at our Stomping Grounds Social Justice Café – a place where coffee makes everyone’s day a little brighter. Coffee drinkers had the option to choose from our “Raise your flag” drink, a dark roast, or a light roast, the “Salute.”
Students took advantage of the opportunity to engage in friendly conversation with our veterans and get to know them a little better. After hearing their stories, students felt inspired and expressed a sense of gratitude for their contribution to our country. Veterans in return, communicated their appreciation and let us know how events like Coffee With Veterans leading up to Memorial day are so important.
Throughout the event, CBS Philly interviewed veterans live to ask them about their military journey and give them a platform to share their perspective on their service, their support networks, and their community issues.
Additionally, representatives from the VA medical center were invited to inform veterans of existing and new benefits. For instance, The PACT Act is a new law signed by President Biden last year that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. The PACT Act marks the most significant expansion of VA Health Care in 30 Years.
The GI Go Fund, a nonprofit organization that provides assistance to military veterans and their families, was also on site to promote The Great Constantine Golf Across America fundraising competition. The annual event honors the passing of Lt. Col Justin Constantine, who lost his life to cancer on May 5, 2022. The competition raises money for veterans facing mental health challenges and invites Golfers across the country to participate in a virtual golf tournament to support the event’s fundraising efforts. To honor this important work, veterans and students were excited to join the cause by practicing their golf skills live at the “Coffee With Veterans” event.
As the event came to a close, students expressed the joy they felt for being able to meet so many amazing people and volunteer their time for a good cause. Big shoutout to CBS Philly for their partnership and inviting us to celebrate our veterans in such a purposeful way.
Thank you,
-YB Philly
