Today we celebrate Memorial Day. This day is so much more than a time for vacations, barbecues or beach days. Memorial Day is a chance to commemorate our U.S. veterans and everything they have done for this nation.

This Memorial Day, we remember and honor the men and women who have served our country’s armed forces—specifically those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. If you want to do more to give back this Memorial Day, check out these ideas to see how you can get involved.

Volunteer at a veterans cemetery.

Honor fallen heroes by using today as an opportunity to thank them for their service. Check in your community to see if there are any local veterans’ cemeteries who are in need of service or upkeep. Some cemeteries have volunteering opportunities that include giving tours, helping with maintenance, raising and lowering flags or even groundskeeping. Use today as a chance to honor those who gave it all by keeping their resting place in the best condition.  

Decorate a memorial site.

Along with volunteering and upkeep, you can also decorate veterans’ memorial sites. Show your gratitude by setting American flags, flowers or other decorations on otherwise bare sites. If you really want to make a day out of it, get friends or family involved so you can split up the cemetery and make sure every headstone has a decoration.

Send the troops a care package.

For the military men and women who are still serving in and outside of the United States, consider putting together a care package to thank them for their service. Things to consider including: a handwritten letter, an arts and crafts piece, snacks, candy, pain relievers, toothpaste, pen and paper, books and especially some uniquely American goodies. 

You’ll be able to brighten a military man or woman’s day, and the troops who receive the care package will definitely feel the appreciation, no matter how far away they are.

Support a Memorial Day charity run.

Many nonprofit organizations offer charity runs in support of Memorial Day and other veterans’ programs. Check to see if there are any events going on in your neighborhood and consider getting involved. You could sign up to run, serve as a volunteer or even stand on the sideline and cheer people on to boost morale. However you get involved, your contribution will help make for a valuable Memorial Day.

Donate to a veterans’ cause.

Finally, if you want to help give back this Memorial Day, look into local and national veterans’ causes to see how you can contribute through your time or donations. Whether it’s donating an old cell phone to help troops abroad call home, volunteering at a local home for veterans or supporting a homeless veteran meals program, your gift can make a world of difference in the lives of those who have given so much for our country.

Today and every day, we honor the men and women who have served our country boldly and made the ultimate sacrifice. Live an altruistic life and make this Memorial Day about more than the barbecues or beach by giving back to these heroes.