While Veteran’s Day is a day to say “thank you” to the Veterans who have fought for the freedoms we enjoy in the United States, FASTSIGNS International, Inc. believes that honoring Veterans shouldn’t only occur on one day of the year.
FASTSIGNS franchisees support soldiers and Veterans in many ways including hiring Veterans, collecting donations for the American Red Cross and even providing welcome home signs for returning soldiers.
“We have tremendous respect for Veterans and are honored that more than 60 men and women have chosen to become FASTSIGNS franchisees” said FASTSIGNS CEO Catherine Monson. “Veterans are exemplary franchisees as they are disciplined, driven, self-motivated and natural leaders, making them well-suited for franchising and for FASTSIGNS.” To encourage more Veterans to use those skills and become franchisees, FASTSIGNS International has a special Veteran Franchise Program with many benefits, including a period of reduced royalties and a discounted franchise fee.
Throughout the country, FASTSIGNS Veteran franchise owners continue to make a difference in their communities. Here are two of them...
Mike Thatcher, Veteran and franchise owner of FASTSIGNS of Columbus, Ohio, said “We put a poster in our window to remind people that Veterans Day is coming,” said Thatcher. “We have a large Veterans Day parade in Columbus, which we always participate in. We drive a decorated vehicle and carry any Veteran unable to walk the parade. We are a sponsor for Milvets of Ohio - the Military/Veterans Education Foundation - which is the parade organizer. This year the parade honors the American Legion's 100th year. We also sponsor a table at the yearly Armed Forces Day luncheon.”
Michael Gaines, Veteran and franchise owner of FASTSIGNS of Kenosha, Wisconsin, assists Kenosha Veterans Services by offering discounted signage and design. “I always offer Veterans preferred discounts to honor those that serve our country. I've donated banners, flags and more over the last few years and will continue working to help those that protect our American way of life. Our center will decorate to honor our vets.”
Our corporate team also includes a number of Veterans, and in 2016, FASTSIGNS International, Inc. was awarded the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, the highest recognition given by the U.S. Government to employers for their outstanding support of employees serving in the Guard and Reserve.
On this Veteran’s Day, we say thank you to the men and women who have served and protected us in the past, today and in the future.