NPL Dedicated, LLC’s Post

“You can’t get ahead if you’re always starting over." - Jennifer Goodale. Great article expressing the struggle of military spouses creating and sustaining their own careers. Well done, Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). I'd like to highlight an additional valuable resource: the FourBlock Military Spouse Career Readiness program. Although it doesn't focus on policy or legislation, this program empowers military spouses by helping them define their career visions and build the necessary toolkit to achieve their goals. Often, military spouses put their own aspirations on hold to support the military's needs, leading to a loss of personal identity. The collaboration with Prepare to Launch U reignites their confidence, helps them recognize their talents, and equips them to advocate for themselves in the workplace. 🔗https://lnkd.in/gbex3bBu #MilitarySpouses #MilitarySpouseEmployment

"Child care accessibility, identified as a problem back in the Army’s 1990 analysis and raised as a key recommendation in the new Quality of Life Panel report, is also getting a closer look." Go ahead and take a look at that MOAA article (yes I ctrl+f for child care before reading any articles) One of the biggest hurdles in the type of advocacy that we do through Operation Child Care Project is the additional burden of explaining why there is a problem. Organizations that help homeless veterans find housing don't have to explain why veteran homelessness is an issue; it is understood. Organizations that set up food boxes/pantries/support don't have to explain why hungry soldiers are an issue; it is understood. VSO organizations focused on increasing healthcare access to disabled veterans don't have to explain why they need healthcare; it is understood. Child care touches everything. We see it affect enlisted and officer families and their ability to serve their country and their families. We see it as a primary barrier to transitioning veterans who find themselves without assistance programs to close the gap with their new salary. The list of situations is endless. It has been highlighted since the 1990s, and we are still educating on its impact. One thing I am grateful for is that the conversations I am having today are much different than the ones I was having seven years ago. When I bring up childcare policy considerations, I am no longer redirected to "ask the local FRG how they can help." I see more organizations like Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) and Military Family Advisory Network digging in on what needs to change to fit our modern families. The conversations with families will never get easier, but the barriers to advocating for them are getting smaller.

Something to think about

The Life of a Military Brat: Resilience and Self-Sufficiency Growing up as a military brat comes with its unique set of challenges and experiences. The term "military brat" is a badge of honor among the children of military personnel, symbolizing the unique culture and community they share. These children often move frequently, attend multiple schools, and face long periods of separation from their deployed parents. It's a lifestyle that shapes them in profound ways. One of the most significant aspects of being a military brat is the development of resilience. The constant changes and uncertainties teach these children to adapt quickly to new situations, be it a new school, new friends, or a new home. They learn to cope with the absence of a parent, which, while painful, instills in them a level of independence and strength that serves them well into adulthood. Self-sufficiency is another trait that military brats often develop early on. With one parent frequently away on deployment and the other managing the household, these children learn to take on responsibilities beyond their years. They become adept at problem-solving, often taking care of younger siblings, and contributing to the household in meaningful ways. Despite the hardships, there are also positive aspects to this lifestyle. Military brats are exposed to diverse cultures and people, which can foster a sense of open-mindedness and acceptance. They often have a strong sense of community, as military families tend to form close bonds, supporting each other through the ups and downs of military life. The experience of growing up in a military family is unique and shapes individuals in lasting ways. The resilience and self-sufficiency developed through this lifestyle are invaluable traits that help these individuals navigate the complexities of life with confidence. While the challenges are real, so too is the strength and camaraderie that come from being part of the military community. It's a life that forges individuals who are ready to face the world head-on, with a spirit of perseverance and a heart full of courage. I am proud to be a member of this tribe!

This Memorial Day we recognize and honor the sacrifice of our service members. We remember those we lost and are grateful to every soul who fought for our country. Thank you to our American soldiers, veterans, military, and service workers. May God strengthen those still in the field and may there be a safe trip home. Eureka Wealth Solutions will be pausing today to reflect and remember, full of gratitude; for many among us have paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we may be free. We are the United States of America because of the bravery of those who have stood strong on the front lines. #ImpactInvesting #investments #wealthmanagement #financialplanning

My most vivid and most painful memory in 23 years in the US occurred on this day 23 years ago. We lost too many innocent families that day. And so many more since then - brave, selfless people who sacrificed their life so we wouldn't have another 9/11. We cannot be safe without military families. As we remember and mourn those who we have lost today, please consider expressing gratitude to military families who sacrifice every day to keep us safe. Here are some options... 1. Thank them for their service 2. Ask them how we can express our gratitude 3. Volunteer in organizations that support military families Help members of military families build fulfilling careers in the civillian sector... 4. Offer free training 5. Conduct mock interviews 6. Offer mentoring 7. Help with job hunting 8. Consider for internships / apprenticeships 9. Offer jobs 10. Brag about how awesome they are from the rooftops Never forget 9/11. Never forget who sacrifices every day since so we don't have another 9/11.

As Memorial Day comes around, it's good to remember what the day is really about. It’s not just the start of summer or a time for big sales. This is a day to honor the brave men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. military. Their sacrifices are why we get to enjoy so many freedoms every day. So, how can we keep the spirit of Memorial Day alive in our everyday lives? It can be as simple as taking a quiet moment to think about those who gave their lives, doing something to help someone in need, or just saying thanks to someone who’s served. These little things mean a lot and help us keep their memories alive. Memorial Day also encourages us to be like those we're remembering—selfless and brave. We can do that by helping out in our community, standing up for what's right or making a move for our future that we were afraid to do. By living out these values, we honor their legacy and make a positive difference just like they did.  Have a meaningful and memorable Memorial Day! #MemorialDay2024 #HonorAndRemember #CourageAndResilience #CommunityStrength #NeverForget #TheWorldChangers #ChangeYourFinancesChangeYourWorld #YouChangeTheWorldChanges

This #VeteransDay, we take a moment to honor and express our gratitude to all those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, as well as the sacrifices made by them and their families. We recognize the unique challenges faced by military youth, who often deal with frequent relocations and separations. Mentoring can play a crucial role in providing these young people with the support and stability they need during transitions. By fostering meaningful connections, we can help these youth navigate their circumstances and thrive. Learn more about how mentoring can make a difference for military youth here: https://bit.ly/3Ujn2UJ. #MentoringAmplifies

Today, we celebrate the courage and loyalty of our K9 Veterans! Did you know that March 13 commemorates the birth of the United States K9 Corps in 1942, formed for the first military dogs who served during World War II? Their loyalty and bravery will always be remembered. Read these articles to learn more: https://lnkd.in/gn_XAb2M https://lnkd.in/ghbrDJz3 #K9Heroes