Today’s DIY project was less about upcycling and crafting and more about caring and connecting.
Just a few blocks from my home sits a small Veterans’ Memorial — a tiny corner on a busy street to honor those who served our country. Over time, it had been overlooked and overgrown. The weeds had taken over, litter had accumulated, and the space had lost its shine. It was now even home to a discarded cabinet door!
Today, in honor of Veterans Day, I decided to take action. Armed with a few tools, a lot of heart, and a quick trip to Goodwill, I turned this forgotten corner into a bright, respectful place of remembrance.
Here’s how I did it — and how you can, too:
1. Clean and Clear
Start by pulling weeds, picking up trash, clipping branches, and sweeping away the season’s debris. It’s amazing how a bit of elbow grease can make! The crisp, sunny day made it a joy to be outside — a little fresh air, a little service, and a lot of satisfaction. While I worked on this project solo, consider inviting a family member or friend to join you and create some memories in the process.
Believe it or not, this tiny space filled four whole yard bags! Even if that had been all I accomplished, it already looked and felt so much better. Sometimes clearing space — whether in your yard or your heart — is the first and most powerful step in transformation.
2. Add Patriotic Touches — by Finding Good at Goodwill
Next is the fun (and meaningful) part: decorating! Visit Goodwill to see what items you might find to add accents to your project.
I headed to my local Goodwill nonprofit retail store on New York Avenue, my go-to spot for all things creative for lower-than-low prices. I found several perfect items: small American flags, a wooden star-shaped art piece, and a few red, white, and blue accents. Each piece added just the right amount of sparkle and spirit — like a “thank you” note written in color and light — without overwhelming the sacred space.
It’s amazing what you can find at Goodwill when you look with a purpose. Those gently used treasures can become powerful symbols of appreciation and pride.
3. Respect and Reflect
Once everything is in place, take a quiet moment to simply stand there and say, “thank you.”
This wasn’t just a DIY project — it was an act of gratitude. While I don’t have immediate family who served in the military, I deeply appreciate those who have. Their courage and sacrifice protect the freedoms that let me do something as simple and joyful as this: beautify, create, and give back.
Sometimes we forget how fortunate we are to live in this country, with its imperfections and its promises. Working outdoors, with my hands in the weeds and my heart in the moment, I felt profoundly grateful. I imagined veterans and their families passing by and seeing that someone cared — that their service was seen, valued, and honored. Finding Your Good does that, too. Ensuring folks are seen, valued, and honored.
4. Transformation — the Goodwill Way
Goodwill is all about transforming people and communities, as well as giving new life to pre-loved items and creating new purpose through small acts of good. The upcycled decorations didn’t just brighten the memorial; they amplified its message. They reminded me that even the simplest finds can serve a higher purpose.
As I stood back to admire the finished space, I thought: sometimes it doesn’t take a parade to honor a hero — just a pair of gloves, a few flags, and a grateful heart.
This Veterans Day, I encourage you to take a moment to look around your neighborhood. Is there a forgotten bench, garden, or marker that could use a little TLC? With just a few Goodwill-found treasures, you can help your community sparkle (for just a buck or two)— and say “thank you” in a creative, heartfelt way. After all, doing good is good for everyone.
Similar Reads:
- DIY: How to Upcycle a Mirror to Reflect Your Pride
- DIY: How to Use Plants & Paint to Upcycle a Mirror
Tim Kime
Artist, Motivational Speaker, Life Coach
