Soldiers’ Angels Volunteers Are Changing the Lives of Veterans
Hear first-hand testimonials from the Soldiers' Angels Orlando Food Distribution in our video Behind the Bag.
September 16, 2024
At Soldiers’ Angels, our mission to support Veterans and their families would not be possible without the dedication of our incredible volunteers. Each month, they step up to make a difference, ensuring that Veterans receive essential resources and the support they deserve. Cheryl Sims, the Soldiers’ Angels Orlando Area Director, recently shared some heartfelt stories from the volunteers who power these efforts during monthly Soldiers’ Angels food distributions.
In a touching video, volunteers from organizations like Orlando Health, Lockheed Martin, Sodexo, Universal Orlando, and more share their personal experiences working with Soldiers’ Angels. Their testimonies reveal the deep impact their efforts have—not only on the Veterans they serve but also on themselves as volunteers.
“A Chance to Give Back”
For many of these volunteers, supporting Veterans is a meaningful way to show gratitude. One volunteer from Lockheed Martin shared how Veterans are woven into the fabric of their company culture.
“This is a way for us to give back to those who have given so much to our country,” they said. The impact of their work is immediate, as they witness firsthand the smiles and relief on Veterans’ faces when receiving much-needed food and supplies.
Another volunteer from Orlando Health expressed a similar sentiment. “It’s not just about giving out food. It’s about making a connection and showing Veterans that they are not forgotten.”
The commitment to being present for our Veterans, to offer not just support but also human connection, is echoed throughout the testimonies.
“It Fills Your Heart”
Several volunteers highlighted the personal fulfillment they gain from participating in these events. One team member from Universal Orlando shared, “This experience fills your heart with gratitude. You see how much these small acts mean to the Veterans, and it’s truly rewarding.”
Giving back, for them, is more than just an obligation—it’s a privilege.
The powerful sense of community is evident in how teams from different organizations come together for a common cause. Whether packing food or handing out supplies, these volunteers create a warm and welcoming environment for every Veteran at every event.
The Impact on Veterans
The volunteers are quick to point out that the impact goes beyond distributing food. One of the volunteers mentioned, “For many of the Veterans, this is more than just receiving groceries. It’s a lifeline and a reminder that there are people who care.”
Soldiers’ Angels food distributions provide a vital service, especially in times of financial uncertainty and rising costs, but they also serve as moments of connection and recognition.
Cheryl Sims’ leadership and dedication have helped cultivate a strong volunteer base that consistently delivers results. The event is as much about uplifting Veterans as it is about creating lasting bonds within the community.
Looking Forward
As Soldiers’ Angels continues to serve Veterans across the country, the work of volunteers remains at the heart of our mission. The stories shared by volunteers from Orlando Health, Lockheed Martin, Sodexo, Universal Orlando, and others remind us that service goes beyond meeting physical needs—it touches the soul. Every moment spent in service of our Veterans is a moment spent honoring their sacrifice.
Want to get involved? Soldiers’ Angels is always looking for more passionate volunteers to join the mission and sponsors to help the program continue to run. This event goes beyond Orlando! It is also held in Atlanta, Georgia; Charleston, South Carolina; Denver, Colorado; Dallas, Texas; and San Antonio, Texas.
Together, we can continue to support our Veterans and ensure they know they are appreciated and remembered.
Watch the video to hear these stories firsthand and learn more about the incredible work being done in Orlando: Watch Here