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Military Life

Different Groups Within the Military: Why They Matter

By Caroline Schafer • April 2, 2025
5 minute read
Military Family Spending Time Together.

The military is no stranger to diversity. In fact, one could say our community is strengthened by it. Whether among service members or family members, the different groups within the military community have shown to not only foster connection and well-being but also promote resilience among our military and their families.

These groups offer a place for mental health support, spousal employment assistance, and child and family well-being. Regardless of where you are stationed or your branch of service, active or retired, there are groups that cultivate that deep sense of community needed to boost morale. 

Spouse and Family Support Organization: 

  • Soldiers and Family Readiness Group (Army, Marines) – This program is designed to create a network of mutual support and assistance to meet military and personal deployment preparedness.
  • Commander’s Key Support Program (Air Force) - The program’s objective is to assist commanders in meeting the needs of the modern family by concentrating on new readiness, providing resources, and creating connectedness.
  • Ombudsman Program (Navy) - Whether ashore or afloat, this program is designed with the Navy family in mind, ensuring they receive the necessary information to meet the challenges of a military lifestyle.
  • Military Spouse Clubs - Organized by a group of spouses, this social group provides a way for spouses to gather with others while participating in fun activities and social events.
  • Nonprofits supporting military families-
    • Blue Star Families - The goal of Blue Star Families is to “empower families to thrive as they serve.” They are committed to connect military families with their neighbors, which will create communities of mutual support.
    • NMFA – This organization was created to help families thrive. They address the challenges families face and help them find viable solutions.
    • Armed Services YMCA – These facilities provide relevant programs to enhance the lives of service members and their families. 

Veteran and Active-Duty Support Groups: 

  • VFW - Serving veterans, the military, and communities, they foster camaraderie among United States veterans of overseas conflicts.
  • American Legion – The American Legion advocates for every generation of veterans, service members, and their families. They are particularly interested in “destigmatizing mental health support.”
  • Team RWB – This group offers fitness events, training, and programs designed to help Veterans lead healthier lifestyles.
  • Women Veterans Alliance - “Equip, Empower, and Encourage women who have served our country,” is what this community is committed to doing. They accomplish this through mentorship with networking, community events, and conferences.
  • Modern Military Association of America – The folks at Modern Military Association of America advocate for the rights of LGBTQ+ service members, veterans, and their families.
  • Military OneSource - From peer mentorship programs for transitioning service members to ethnic and cultural affinity groups, this is the place to find anything and everything service members and family members need. There is also information about Chaplain services and military faith groups. 

These diverse groups build a strong community, creating a stronger force and fostering high morale. 

 

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