Showing support for the military, veterans and their families, CGI Federal volunteers stepped up to help the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) at their 32nd annual National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp, held over the Memorial Day weekend in Arlington, Va.
The event provides comfort and support to those who have lost loved ones in military service. Family members of all ages, friends and fellow service members were all invited to attend. Through memorial displays, expert-led workshops and opportunities to simply share memories and experiences with others who have suffered similar losses, the event brings comfort and aid to survivors.
David Manyin, a data engineer at CGI Federal, helped unbox and set up nearly 90 acoustic guitars for children attending TAPS’ Good Grief Camp. The children learned to play some songs and performed as a group, keeping the instruments afterward.
Manyin also supported event registration, preparing activity kits, organizing t-shirts for the volunteers and ensuring check-in was simple and smooth for attendees.
During the event, Manyin said he witnessed several emotional moments among attendees, including hugs, tears and shared memories. “It was touching, and it felt like the conference was serving a purpose,” he said. “I would definitely volunteer again next year.”
Elise White, another CGI Federal volunteer, donated time before the event to prepare name tags and t-shirts, among other tasks.
“Working alongside the other volunteers was truly a privilege. Many of the participants are children who have lost a parent or spouses who have lost their partners, and being in that environment really puts everything into perspective,” she said. “Watching volunteers carefully place photos of fallen heroes was especially moving. The experience reminded me why this organization is so important, and it inspired me to stay engaged and continue supporting their mission in the future.”
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