Associations provide help for families

[CommunityEditor]

We know how it is. You are HH6, the head of the household, the one in charge. Have you ever wondered whether there was anything or anyone out there who could give you some help? Provide some relief while you provide the sustaining power behind your airman's career? Well, how about relief — by association?
We have long believed that there's a huge gap between the wonderful resources that military associations provide and the families that need them. As a result, we thought a few informal introductions were in order. You may be surprised at what you're missing.

Networking, idea exchange, and personal, professional development
At this year's annual meeting of the Association of the United States Army, more than 25,000 active-duty and Guard soldiers, Depart ment of Army civilians and, yes, family members learned about AUSA's myriad initiatives for national and local communities. There were Military Family Forums, networking events and a host of authors to meet.

To find out more, visit http://www.ausa.org.

Resources for your everyday life
When you're talking military families, the National Military Family Association, http://www.nmfa.org , is perhaps the most recognizable association. Like AUSA and others, NMFA has a two-front mission: representing military families and championing legislation on Capitol Hill that enhances and improves our quality of life. It also supports us in our local communities.

Another of our favorites is the Armed Services YMCA, http://www.asymca.org . Funded by donations from caring Americans, this group operates at 16 branch locations and nine affiliated community YMCAs, as well as six Defense Department/Homeland Security Department affiliates worldwide.

According to its Web site, ASYMCA offers essential programs such as child care, hospital assistance, spouse support services, food services, computer training classes, health and wellness services, and holiday meals, among many others.

We've learned that the only way to get along in this military life is to associate, associate, associate. The best part: Whether you are a service member, spouse, active duty, or Guard or reserve, there is room, and relief, for everyone.


Article: http://www.militarytimes.com/communi...relief_071022/