Honoring our Veterans at Jacksonville Jazz Fest
As we wrap up Military Appreciation Month, the AARP Jacksonville team had a special surprise in store for all Veterans who attended the 2024 Jacksonville Jazz Festival.
Our Veterans proudly risked their lives to serve our country, and we wanted to make sure they enjoyed The Jacksonville Jazz Festival in style at The AARP Veterans' and Member's Lounge. This was an exclusive tent just for Veterans and AARP members, where they could sit back, relax, and learn more about AARP's various Veterans, Active Duty, and Military Family resources.
Not only did the tent include complimentary food and bottles of water, but it also had comfy chairs and — most importantly — fans to beat the Memorial Day heat! Veterans also received bags with some special AARP goodies, including a link to the brand-new Veterans Home Benefits Guide — a free resource with information on how to request home modifications.
This event was planned and executed by a group of passionate AARP Jacksonville volunteers — many of whom are Veterans themselves — led by Executive Councilmember Cheryl Jefferson.
"I am so glad that AARP participated in this year's Jacksonville Jazz Festival," she explained. "We wanted all the Veterans who stopped by to feel seen and recognized — and to spread awareness of the resources that can smooth their transition to civilian life."
Behind every Veteran is a story of resilience and courage, and we are grateful to all who stopped by to share them with us. Take a look at the gallery below to see just a few of the many heroes we met over the course of the weekend.
For more information on AARP's resources for Veterans, Active Duty, and Military Families, visit us at aarp.org/veterans.
