ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ken Fisher is chairman and chief executive officer of Fisher House Foundation.

America asks military families to endure deployments, missed milestones, and constant uncertainty. In return, we offer words of thanks and gratitude on Veterans Day with parades, social media posts, and calls to support military-focused organizations. Now, a week past Veterans Day I want to ask, what happens next? Does our support continue?

Our system works to support veterans and military families with the benefits and services they receive from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and there are organizations, like ours, who work to provide support to military families year-round. Despite these efforts, it’s simply not enough. It’s not enough because, according to the VA, we have lost more veterans to suicide than on the battlefields of the Global War on Terror. It’s not enough because, tonight, more than 30,000 veterans don’t know where they’ll rest their heads when they go to sleep.

It’s not enough because our veterans signed up to protect our freedoms 24/7, 365 days a year and we owe them more than an annual “Thank You.”

The system designed to support those who have worn the uniform can only do so much. It is imperative for our society to place the needs of veterans, service members, and their families front and center -- regardless of whether we’re marking a holiday or special occasion.

The sacrifices veterans and their families make for our country are profound and enduring, and civilians can never fully understand the magnitude of what they give. We owe them that same unwavering commitment every day of the year: care, assistance, and support that meets their needs.

What gives me hope is seeing the incredible dedication of nonprofits across the country stepping in to fill the gaps. We recently awarded support through our Fisher Service Awards to incredible groups, like the Caregiving Youth Student Leadership Program, Military Child Education Coalition; Dina Naazbaa Partnership, America’s Warrior Partnership; Operation Rebound, Challenged Athletes Inc. | dba Challenged Athletes Foundation; Exceptional Families Matter Grant, Exceptional Families of the Military; and Wounded Warrior Umpire Academy.

Like Fisher House, and many other nonprofits, these organizations work tirelessly to support veterans, military families, and the greater military community. These organizations stand ready to step in, ensuring no veteran or family goes without help, even in uncertain times

This year, I had the honor of opening the doors to our 100th Fisher House, a milestone that represents more than just bricks and mortar. It is a testament to the power of community, the strength of volunteers, and the unwavering commitment of Americans who show up for our veterans every day, regardless of what happens in Washington. These homes provide not just a roof, but comfort, stability and hope for families navigating the most challenging periods of medical care for their loved ones.

On Veterans Day, and every day that follows, we celebrate the courage of those who served. But honoring them means more than ceremonies and parades; it means ensuring they and their families are constantly supported. Their service was 365 days a year; our support should be too. At Fisher House, the lights will always stay on, for those who have worn the uniform and for the families who stand beside them.