Showing Appreciation in September

As our nation commemorates September 11, we can intentionally show appreciation and love to men and women who daily lay down their lives in service. Your women's group can use the month of September to honor those who sacrificially serve your community. Here are a few simple ways to reach out to men and women who fight fires, enforce laws, and protect the innocent:

1. Appreciation breakfast - Invite local firefighters and police officers to attend a breakfast in their honor. Prepare a meal using recipes from the "Cooking for a Crowd" e-newsletter, share a public word of appreciation, and have a time of prayer for each branch of service.
2. Thank-you card - Send a personalized thank-you card to each police station and firehouse. Include a gift card to a popular restaurant, dessert joint, or coffee shop for them to enjoy.
3. Baked treats - Deliver a plate of baked treats to each police station. Include a note of thanks from your women's group.
4. Home-cooked meal - Drop off a hot meal to each firehouse. Use large disposable aluminum pans for a simple & hearty meal (i.e., chili, cornbread, and a veggie tray; or tossed salad and baked pasta with meat sauce and cheese). Don't forget to include a note of thanks from your women's group.

Compiled by the National Women's Department