Open letter to Riverside High School, students, parents and the surrounding community:

Dear neighbors,

I am writing this letter to share our experience with Riverside High School and how it pertains to Veterans Are Heroes SC (VAH). Our organization was selected by the student council of Riverside to be the recipient of the 2025 Spirit Week fundraising event. VAH is a relatively small organization that is entirely volunteer-based. After we gave our presentation, we discussed how impressed we were with the attention that we were given. The questions asked were insightful and thoughtful. We felt confident that regardless of who won, the students were going to make an informed decision as they were engaged throughout what must have been a very long morning. We felt very blessed to even be considered.

The amount of time required to plan, prepare, and implement the activities of spirit week goes so far beyond a week. This is evident in every activity–these kids have invested their all into each event. Seeing their level of commitment further cemented our commitment to supporting them. We have strived to attend every community event, and throughout all of them, we have been treated with kindness, respect, and acceptance as if we have known each other since grade school. We have witnessed how the students engage with each other as well, with positivity, kindness, and celebration of diversity. It is truly heart warming.

We sat together last evening marveling at the amazing human beings that we have had the privilege of working with at Riverside. The faculty, staff, and parents should be extremely proud of the young adults that are preparing to take on the world. As a community, please continue to support their philanthropic efforts so that other organizations can be impacted and experience all of the passion and excitement that these young people possess. And when you see a Warrior walking among you, thank them for what they are doing.

It truly has been an honor to work with these students, the faculty, and the parents. We are so grateful for each of you. Keep doing well by doing good.

With gratitude,

Veterans Are Heroes SC

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