As a military spouse you’re the head of the household — the one in charge. But, have you ever wondered if there was anything or anyone out there that could give you some help? Or if there’s some relief for you while you supply the sustaining power behind your Soldier’s career? Well, how about relief, by association?

Unfortunately, there is a huge gap between the wonderful resources that are available to military and the families that need them. And, until faced with a real problem, most of us have never thought much of our membership benefits from any association. I know I didn’t. Membership was thought to be more of a professional duty for spouses. The result: My own fact finding mission with lessons provided to you free of charge.

Here is what you may be missing:

Networking, Idea exchange, and Personal, Professional Development

For example, at annual meetings for Association of the United States Army (AUSA), active duty, guard members, DA civilians and yes, family members — more than 25,000 in total — learn about AUSA’s initiatives for national and local communities. There are Military Family forums, networking events, and a host of authors to meet.

AUSA is headquartered in Arlington, Va., but has 125 chapters located worldwide. You may have a chapter near you whose mission is also to support Soldiers and families through scholarships, recreational opportunities, meetings, and conferences. To find out more, visit http://www.ausa.org. There is also an Air Force Association, Marine Corps Association, and National Guard Association — really, something for everyone.

Another great resource for military families is the Military Officers’ Association of America (MOAA). MOAA is the nation's largest and most influential association of military officers. It’s an independent, nonprofit, politically nonpartisan organization. MOAA is very active in the legislative sector. Their Government Relations Department has five full-time lobbyists who represent the interests of the entire military community. They’re most known for their military benefits expertise. They feature many discounts and benefits to their members as well. The organization also holds a Spouse Symposium every year. In addition, they publish a very informative magazine, Military Officer. To find out more visit http://www.moaa.org. 

The most recognizable association among military families is “The Voice for Military Families” or the National Military Family Association (NMFA), http://www.nmfa.org. The original and ultimate readiness or support group and volunteer network, NMFA was organized in 1969. Again, their approach is two-fold: representing families and spearheading legislation on Capitol Hill that enhances and improves our lifestyle, all while supporting us in our local communities.

Resources for Your Everyday Life

Peruse NMFA’s online store and you’ll find their Education Resource Guide specifically for Military Spouses. On its second edition, this guide was the first of its kind to be comprehensive and informative. It’s a one-stop guide applicable to spouses in all services. Some free publications for families include advice about relocation, adoption, care giving, and choosing child care. And if you become a member, you can take advantage of discounts from Meineke to MilitaryCity.

Another great resource is the Armed Services YMCA (A for Association). Their 150 programs are imbedded in communities worldwide, and is funded by donations from caring Americans. Medical and health care assistance ranges from infant immunizations to free eye exams. Examples of children’s programs include Operation Kid Comfort where ASYMCA makes photo-transfer quilts for children left behind by a deployed service member and Operation Hero for children needing a little extra help through school. Find out more by visiting http://www.asymca.org/.

Lesson Learned

So what did I learn? Funny, it’s a lesson seasoned military spouses already know, but perhaps haven’t applied outside their normal “area of operations.” It’s the only way to get along in this life is to associate, associate, associate. And the best part is you can do this whether you’re a servicemember, spouse, active duty or National Guard. There is room, and relief, for everyone.