A Heartfelt Tribute: VEA Volunteers Continue Legacy of Service
On September 11, a group of UC Davis Health employees committed their day to honoring the memory of those lost in the tragic events of that fateful day in 2001. This National Day of Service saw over a dozen volunteers, primarily from the Real Estate team, Facilities Planning and Development, and Health Equity by Design for Inclusive Excellence, gather at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery. Led by the Veterans Employee Association (VEA), the initiative serves to honor not just the heroes who have served in the military but also those whose lives were deeply affected by the events of 9/11.
Connecting Through Community Service
The act of volunteering at the cemetery was more than just a day’s work; it was a powerful testament to community and resilience. Volunteers engaged in meaningful tasks such as cleaning headstones, landscape maintenance, and providing refreshments to participants, fostering connections among one another and paying tribute to veterans. VEA Chair Miles Thorne, alongside Matthew Perez, worked diligently to plan this event, reinforcing their commitment to annual remembrance through service. Thorne stated, "Your time, energy, and compassion honored the legacy of those who served our nation. Acts like these remind us that service doesn't end with military duty; it continues in how we show up for each other and our community."
A Commitment to Remembrance
The annual day of service is only one part of a broader plan by the VEA to ensure that the legacy of the military and of 9/11 are honored every year. Their upcoming participation in Wreaths Across America exemplifies their ongoing commitment to remembering and recognizing veterans. This event emphasizes the importance of maintaining this connection with the past—one that serves as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made for everyone’s freedom.
The Larger Role of Employee Resource Groups
At UC Davis Health, Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), like the VEA, play a vital role in fostering inclusivity and community engagement. Open to all employees regardless of their backgrounds—race, ethnicity, gender identity, or religion—these groups are crucial for building a culture of appreciation and support within the workplace. They act as a bridge, connecting diverse perspectives and encouraging participation in communal activities that strengthen bonds within the organization and beyond.
Why Days of Service Matter
Participating in a Day of Service—the act of laying aside personal agendas to focus collectively on community needs—creates significant emotional and human connections. For employees, it fosters a strong sense of purpose, enhances teamwork, and instills pride in the workplace. Inevitably, it gives participants moments to reflect on their gratitude for the freedoms they enjoy and the sacrifices made in service of those freedoms.
Conclusion: A Call for Continuous Engagement
As the VEA forges ahead with its commitment to community service and remembrance, it encourages all staff members to partake in future events. Each opportunity allows employees to engage more deeply with the values of community, respect, and remembrance. Whether through volunteering or simply expressing gratitude, these gestures weave a fabric of honor that is essential for keeping memories alive. If you serve within UC Davis Health—and even if you don’t—consider finding your path to volunteerism, and help echo the calls of service and remembrance in your own way.
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