Another way of giving like us, but not like us, is the way celebrities volunteer. We might help out by packing gift boxes for service men and women or by sending them holiday cards. Celebrities, on the other hand, can give of their talent. If you’re of a certain age, you’re already ahead of me. Bob Hope! His Christmas specials for were an American tradition, and 68 years after Hope first took his radio show on the road, performers are still showing up for the troops.
All thanks to the United Services Organization – the USO. Stephen Colbert took his entire show to Bagdad recently under the auspices of the USO. Rapper David Banner, comic Jimmy Fallon, and sports personalities like the NFL’s Don Shula and Will Witherspoon have all dropped by to show their support. All around the globe. All for free.
What you might not know is that the USO is not funded by the military or the government. And they do a lot more than entertain. They provide a wide variety of services, from phone cards and comfort kits to a “USO in a Box” – a few pallets of equipment and supplies that can be converted into an information and entertainment center in about 20 minutes. Internet, video games, DVDs – all in a comfortable climate-controlled unit. Pretty nifty.
Which brings us back to the whole microgiving thing. (See how I am?) 15 bucks buys one of those phone cards, or some personal items that can be hard to come by in the middle of nowhere. Volunteering is easy, too. There are local branches across the country and overseas that would welcome a personal appearance from you. No audition required.
The Master at Work
[PS: As you can imagine, there are some not-so-scrupulous types out there in cyberspace who try to play on your emotions regarding our service men and women. If you're wondering about where to send your money or lend your support, please check out www.ourmilitary.mil. Thanks!]
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Tags: Bob Hope, Christmas, donate, microgiving, military, Stephen King, troops, USO, volunteer
