At a very young age we learn that our community heroes are often doctors, police officers, firefighters, and teachers. During our elementary school years, the most we learn about these heroes is their occupation, not necessarily how to thank them. Sure at the end of the day these heroes know that they did their job right and successfully, but it would mean so much more to them when gratitude is expressed back from the community. Here are a few ideas that can extend beyond a “thank you” for our community heroes.

Thank You Cards: Even though this is a simple gesture, this can go a long way as far as gratitude goes. Not only is a simple “thank you” card a great gesture, but it is a great opportunity to write your own personal message on the card.

Monthly Community Potluck: Even though this is usually a gathering of friends and family, a potluck at a neighborhood park for the community heroes can express immense gratitude. This is also a perfect opportunity to thank them graciously in person.

Give Them a Plaque: Giving a community hero a plaque is one of the most immense gestures they can ever receive. It is a sentimental reward that community heroes can hang up in their office as a daily reminder of the community’s gratitude.

Career Day: Career Day at elementary schools is a day reserved for doctors, firefighters and police officers alike to talk about their careers to young children. At the end of their session, they are usually followed by a “thank you” from the teachers and students, but why not extend that “thank you” by giving them desserts and thank you cards?

Thank You at Encounters: If you encounter a community hero outside of their work, make sure you take the time out to extend that thank you!

Make a Facebook Page: A good and unique way to reward community heroes is to start a Facebook group exclusively for community heroes where people can post their gratitude or share their stories with community heroes. This is a great way to give community heroes something to smile about every time they log in!

Have a Fundraiser Event: When planning a next fundraiser event, consider fire and police charities!

 

Besides this list of options, there is still so much more you can do to extend your gratitude to community heroes, just try to go beyond a “thank you”! Make a community hero’s day brighter.