84th Family Readiness Handbook by John McConnell

84 Training Command th

Soldier and Family Resource Book

DE P AR T ME NT OF T HE AR MY HE ADQUAR T E R S , 84T H T R AINING C OMMAND 230 B R ANDE NB UR G S T AT ION R O AD F OR T K NOX , K Y 40121-4132

08 June 2010

Office of Commanding General Dear Soldiers and Families: One of the most important assets to the Army Reserve is families. No Soldier joins the Army Reserve alone. The family joins also. We like to say, “We don’t enlist Soldiers. We enlist families!” Because of this commitment it is important to build and maintain strong Army Reserve Family Programs to provide coordinated and responsive quality of life services. This guide has been compiled by the 84th Training Command Family Programs Team to assist each Army Reserve Family in understanding what the Army Reserve Family Programs has to offer. There are many great information, training, education, awareness and outreach, referral and follow-up services available to our families. The 84th Training Command Family Programs team is committed to assisting you and your family in utilizing these valuable resources. Thank you for your dedicated commitment to the Soldiers and Families of the 84th Training Command! STRIKE HARD!!! ARMY STRONG!!! FAMILY STRONG!!! Sincerely,

Daniel J. Zebrauskas CSM,USAR Command Sergeant Major

Theodore S.Jendusa Command Executive Officer

Jeffrey W.Talley Major, General,USAR Commanding General

Important Information and Point of Contacts (POC)

Acknowledgements:

84th Training Command Commanding General MG Jeffrey W. Talley Email: jeffrey.w.talley@us.army.mil

Special Thanks to the 84th Family Programs for putting together this resource book, the Families who supplied the awesome pictures for the cover, and Sarah Andriola for designing our cover.

84th Training Command Command Sergeant Major CSM Daniel J. Zebrauskas Email: dan.zebrauskas@us.army.mil

Disclaimer:

84th Training Command Command Executive Officer CXO Theodore S. Jendusa Email: ted.jendusa@us.army.mil Name and Rank of Sponsor:_______________________ Name of Unit:__________________________________ Major Command:_______________________________ Unit address:___________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ Commanderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Name:____________________________ First Sergeant's Name:___________________________ Staff Duty Phone:_______________________________ Chaplain Name and #:___________________________ _____________________________________________ Family Programs POC and #:_____________________ _____________________________________________ FRG POC and #:_______________________________ _____________________________________________

Other ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________

The sites provided here are resources for the Soldiers and Families of the 84th Training Command. The presence of logos, URLs or other information identifying private or non-profit agencies or other non-federal entities does not constitute an endorsement by the 84th Training Command, the Department of the Army or the Department of Defense. COL Goblirsch, SJA

NOTES

QUICK LINKS

______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________

American Red Cross www.redcross.org 1-877-272-7337

Army OneSource www.myarmyonesource.com

Army Reserve Family Programs www.arfp.org

Military Homefront: www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil

Military One Source www.MilitaryOneSource.com 1800-342-9647

Military Installations www.militaryinstallations.dod.mil

Operation Homefront www.operationhomefront.net 1800-722-6098

Operation Military Kids www.operationmilitarykids.org 1800-464-8107

CHILDCARE

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US General Services Administration (GSA) www.gsa.gov 816-926-7063 The GSA and the U.S. Army have partnered together for affordable childcare within the federal childcare centers. The Army Childcare Subsidy Benefit Program provides payments directly to federal childcare centers located throughout the United States. The program benefit is open to U.S. Army patrons to include U.S. Army Active Duty Soldiers, activated U.S. Army Reserve, activated Army National Guard Soldiers and Army DOD Civilians. Active Duty personnel will be able to use the federal childcare centers and will be charged the same rate they would be charged if they were receiving childcare on a military base. The provider will charge the regular federal rate and the difference between the Army fee and the federal fee will be reimbursed directly to the childcare provider. If you are interested in more information or want to locate a federal childcare center in your area call Judy Gonzales at 816-926-7063 or send an email to army.childcare@gsa.gov

Sittercity www.sitterycity.com Sittercity.com is America's largest and most trusted site for matching parents with local babysitters and nannies as well as dog walkers, senior care providers and tutors, with over a million caregiver profiles nationwide. Parents looking for sitters can use the four-step screening process, which includes checking references, reading caregiver reviews, conducting interviews and utilizing free access to background checks to find the perfect match for their family.

NACCRRA

INDEX

www.naccrra.org/MilitaryPrograms/army 1-800-424-2246 (Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday 8:30 am â&#x20AC;&#x201C;7:00 pm EST) The U.S. Army and NACCRRA (National Association of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies) have joined forces to help Army Families find and pay for quality off-post child care. Our goal is for Army parents to have peace of mind knowing that their children are in safe, nurturing child care settings while they work, attend school or are deployed. Eligible Families may also qualify for Army Fee Assistance to help pay part of the cost of child care for their children from birth through age of 12.

The American Freedom Foundation 40 The American Legion 51 The Armed Forces Foundation 40 The Armed Forces Vacation Club 33 The Soldiers Project 28 The Trevor Romain Foundation 31 The US Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims 49 The US Department of Veterans Affairs 48 Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) 18 Tillman Military Scholarships 8 Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors 31 TRICARE 25 Troops to Teachers 49 Turbo TAP.org 39 United States Organization (USO) 40 United We Serve 40 Unmet Needs 19 US Armed Forces Legal Assistance 24 US Army MWR 33 US General Services Administration (GSA) 2 US Office of Personnel Management Veterans Information 49 US Wounded Soldier Foundation 41 USAJOBS 11 VA Home Loans 23 VA Loans 50 VA Research and Development 50 Vet Jobs 12 & 50 Veterans Administration Survivor Services 31 Veterans Affairs Publications 50 Veterans and Families.org 51 Veterans of Foreign Wars 51 WarriorCare.mil 25 Wounded Warrior 41 Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program 41-43

COUNSELING

Military Family Life Consultants (MFLC)

INDEX

1-888-755-9355 MFLCs provide short-term, non-medical counseling assisting the needs of active duty, National Guard and Reserve Component members and their families with everyday issues. Consultants typically make contact during pre- and post-deployment training, but may approach military members and their families in places such as libraries, local restaurants or bowling alleys. Regardless of how you meet them, MFLCs are there to talk to and help with lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s challenges. It is an opportunity to reach out and speak confidentially to someone about your thoughts and needs. They provide support for relationships, crisis intervention, stress management, grief, occupational hazards, anger management, depression and other challenges military families face. Services are free and private; between you and the consultant.

MilitaryOneSource www.MilitaryOneSource.com 1-800-342-9647

MilitaryOneSource can refer you for (up to) 12 sessions of face-to face counseling through their Affiliate Providers, or Short-Term Solution-Focused Telephonic Consultations, or Online Consultations. They also provide 24/7 counseling on the phone.

Give an Hour (GAH) www.giveanhour.org A nonprofit organization that provides free mental health services to US Military personnel and families affected by the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Free Annual Credit Report 21 Freedom Is Not Free 36 Give 2 The Troops 35 Give an Hour (GAH) 4 Gold Star Wives of America 29 Guardian Angels for Soldiers Pets 34 Hadit.com Veteran to Veteran 45 Helmets to Hardhats 13 & 45 Hire Veterans.com 11 & 46 Hire Vets First 11 & 44 Homeownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Assistance Program 23 InCharge Institute 18 JAGCNET 24 Jump $tart Coalition for Financial Literacy 52 Junior Achievement 53 Kristin Brooks Hope Center 28 Military Brat Life 53 Military By Owner 22 Military Child Education Coalition 53 Military Family Life Consultants (MFLC) 4 Military Homefront 22 Military Impacted Schools Association 54 Military Kidz 52 Military Money 17 Military One Source 4, 6, 7, 12, 20, & 28 Military Pets Foster Project 37 Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) 7 Military Spouse Job Search (MSJS) 13 Military Youth on the Move 54 Military.com 6, 9, 20, & 32 MilitaryHire.com 11 My Money 18 NACCRRA 3 National Foundation For Consumer Credit (NFCC) 17 National Guard Youth Challenge Program 54

INDEX Afterdeployment.org 34 American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. 29 Army Benefits Tool 16 Army Career and Alumni Program (ACAP) 10 Army Emergency Relief (AER) 19 Army Family Action Plan (AFAP) 15 Army Family Covenant 14 Army Family Team Building (AFTB) 14 Army Housing Referral Network 22 Army Once Source 12 & 34 Army Reserve Family Programs 14 Army Reserve Family Programs Financial Readiness Program 17 Army Reserve Warrior & Family Assistance Center 15 &27 Army Spouse Employment Partnership 13 Army Well-Being 16 & 29 Army Wounded Warrior Program 35 ARMY.MIL 16 Behavioral Health 27 Better Business Bureau Military Line 20 & 35 Blinded Veterans Organization 44 Boys and Girls Club of America 52 Career One Stop 7, 12, & 44 Child Youth & School Services 52 Civilian Personnel Online (CPOL) 10 Department of Labor Veterans Opportunities 44 Disabled American Veterans 45 DoD’s Mental Health Self-Assessment 27 Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve (ESGR) 10 Employer Partnership of the Armed Forces 13 Exceptional Family Member Program 15 Family Support Network 19 Feds Hire Vets 10 Fisher House 36 Fort Family 16

Operation Stephen’s Touch www.stephenstouch.org 1-888-40-TOUCH (408-6824) The Stephen’s Ministries is a non-denominational ministry that provides a one-on-one free confidential listening ministry to members of military families living without a loved one. The caring listening is being offered to spouses, parents, adult children and siblings of those who died or those who are dealing with separation due to military service. Stephen Ministers care for people who are suffering some difficulty or trauma in their lives. Stephen Ministers don't give advice and they don't proselytize. If the person receiving care wishes, the Stephen Minister may say a prayer during the session for them but that is totally optional.

DEPLOYMENT

Military One Source

National Guard Youth Program www.jointservicessupport.org/FP/Youth.aspx The National Guard realizes that Guard Youth face a unique set of challenges and problems. The National Guard Youth Program is available to help provide the support and resources they need to help deal with separation from a parent, child care issues, difficulties with school, or any other problems. This program serves children and youth ages 6-18 and provides opportunities for youth to develop their physical, social, emotional and cognitive abilities and to experience achievement, leadership, employment, friendship and recognition.

Operation Military Kids (OMK) www.operationmilitarykids.org/public/home.aspx Operation Military Kids is the U.S. Army's collaborative effort with America's communities to support the children and youth impacted by deployment. Through a network of community partners, OMK provides youth program opportunities for school age, middle school and teenaged youth and connects them to support resources where they live.

www.militaryonesource.com 1-800-342-9647 Education, relocation, parenting, stress - you name it Military OneSource is here to help you (24/7) with just about any need which includes: childcare, personal finances, emotional support, relocation information, resources for special circumstances or private counseling in the local community. Available by phone or online, their free service is provided by the Department of Defense for active-duty, Guard, and Reserve service members and their families. The service is completely private and confidential, with few exceptions.

Military.com www.military.com Military.com's free membership connects Service Members, Military Families and Veterans to all the benefits of service â&#x20AC;&#x201D; government benefits, scholarships, discounts, lifelong friends, mentors, great stories of military life or missions, and much more

Operation Homefront Scholarships for Military Children www.militaryscholar.org/index.shtml The Scholarships for Military Children Program was created to recognize the contributions of military families to the readiness of the fighting force and to celebrate the role of the commissary in the military family community.

www.operationhomefront.net 1-800-722-6098 Operation Homefront (OH) Operation Homefront provides emergency financial and other assistance to the families of our service members and wounded warriors. OH also provides the following: Food, Critical Baby Items, Vehicle Repairs, Home and Appliance Repairs, Furniture and Household Items, Vision Care Assistance, and Moving Assistance.

EDUCATION

Junior Achievement www.ja.org JA Worldwide is the world’s largest organization dedicated to educating students about workforce readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy through experiential, hands-on programs. The Junior Achievement program helps to prepare young people for the real world by showing them how to generate wealth and effectively manage it, how to create jobs which make their communities more robust, and how to apply entrepreneurial thinking to the workplace.

Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) https://aiportal.acc.af.mil/mycaa The Department of Defense (DoD) Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) program provides up to $6,000 of Financial Assistance (FA) for military spouses who are pursuing licenses, certificates, credentials or degree programs leading to employment in Portable Career Fields. MyCAA also pays for High School Completion courses, GED tests and English as a Second Language (ESL) classes.

Military Brat Life

Military One Source

www.militarybratlife.com Military Brat Life is an online magazine which celebrates all that is unique and special about growing up in a military family. Military Brat Life is a forum where all Military Brats from all service branches can share their experiences, their stories, and support brats who need help coping with the world outside of military bases.

www.MilitaryOneSource.com 1-800-342-9647 Military One Source you can assist with the following: 1. Provide research for other scholarships 2. Provide special consultation to help select College (be sure to request specifically what is underlined!)

Military Child Education Coalition www.militarychild.org A model of positive leadership and advocacy, the MCEC’s work is focused on ensuring quality educational opportunities for all military-connected children affected by mobility, family separation, and transition. The MCEC performs research, develops resources, conducts professional institutes and conferences, and publishes resources for all constituencies.

Career One Stop www.careeronestop.org CareerOneStop is a U.S. Department of Laborsponsored Web site that offers career resources and workforce information to job seekers, students, businesses, and workforce professionals to foster talent development in a global economy.

Thanks USA

Boys and Girls Clubs of America

www.scholarshipamerica.org/thanksusa Thanks USA provides college, technical and vocational school scholarships for Military children and spouses. Awards granted to dependent children are for first-time undergraduate study at an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational-technical school and are NOT for non-degree licensure/certificate programs or graduate study. Spouses may use the award for a firsttime undergraduate degree at an accredited two- or fouryear college, university, or vocational-technical school. Spouses may also use the award for non-degree licensure/certification programs regardless of whether an undergraduate degree has already been completed. Both dependent children and spouses who have completed a vocational program or associate's degree may use the award for study toward a first time bachelor's degree.

www.bgca.org The Boys and Girls Club offers programs and services to promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging and influence. Boys & Girls Clubs are a safe place to learn and grow â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all while having fun. They are truly The Positive Place For Kids.

Tillman Military Scholarships

Jump$tart Coalition for Financial Literacy

www.pattillmanfoundation.org/tillman-militaryscholars.aspx 1-480-621-4074 The Tillman Military Scholarship provides scholarships for Service Members and their dependents (children and spouses). Even with the GI Bill many Service Members (and their dependents) may lack the financial means to pursue their educational goals. The Pat Tillman Foundation established the Tillman Military Scholarships to close this gap and help them access educational opportunities and encourage their life long commitment to service. The Tillman Military Scholarships also cover direct study-related expenses.

Child, Youth & School Services www.arfp.org Child, Youth & School Services recognizes the challenges of our Soldiers and their Families. By offering quality programs for children, youth and students, CYS supports the Army Family Covenant by reducing the conflict between mission readiness and parental responsibility.

www.jumpstartcoalition.org Jump$tart is a national coalition of organizations dedicated to improving the financial literacy of prekindergarten through college-age youth by providing advocacy, research, standards and educational resources. Jump$tart strives to prepare youth for life-long successful financial decision-making.

Military Kidz www.militarykidz.com A web site for kids to have fun and learn in a fun military environment. You need a password, or as they call it an ID this is one you can make up and has nothing to do with the official military ID system.

Post 9/11 GI Bill

This is to be a tabbed page with Youth on the tab.

www.gibill.va.gov 1-888-442-4551 The Post 9/11 GI Bill provides financial support for education and housing to individuals with at least 90 days of aggregate service on or after September 11, 2001, or individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days. Generally, you may receive up to 36 months of entitlement under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. You may receive benefits for any approved program offered by a school in the US that is authorized to grant an associate (or higher) degree. The Department of Defense may offer you the opportunity to transfer benefits to your spouse or dependent children.

Military.com www.military.com/scholarship/search-forscholarships.do Military.com website has a search engine to explore other possible scholarships.

EMPLOYMENT

VA Loans

Army Career and Alumni Program (ACAP)

www.valoans.com This site provides facts and figures about VA lending limits by state.

www.acapexpress.army.mil ACAP helps demobilizing Reserve Component Soldiers and their families successfully transition from active duty. ACAP centers are staffed with experienced transition and employment assistance counselors who can provide personalized counseling and assistance.

Veterans Affairs Publications www1.va.gov/vhapublications Welcome to the Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Documents Home Page. This web site contains information regarding VHA -wide policies, procedures, requirements and other information of general applicability.

VA Research and Development www.research.va.gov The Office of Research and Development (ORD) aspires to discover knowledge, develop VA researchers and health care leaders, and create innovations that advance health care for our Veterans and the nation.

VetJobs.com www.vetjobs.com 1-877-838-5627 (877-VetJobs) VetJobs is the leading Internet niche job board for reaching the 10.5 million military Veterans currently in the work force, the 200 thousand Active Duty military personnel who transition each year, and the over 400,000 members of the National Guard and Reserve who return to the United States each year from extended deployments, and their Family Members.

CPOL (Civilian Personnel Online) www.cpol.army.mil The Army offers abundant opportunity for challenging and rewarding civilian employment in virtually all career fields and in all parts of the world. CPOL has job search and other tools in your search for employment with the Army.

Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve (ESGR) 1-800-336-4590 www.esgr.org ESGR was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve component members and their civilian employers and to assist in the resolution of conflicts arising from an employee's military commitment.

Feds Hire Vets www.fedshirevets.gov U.S. Office of Personnel Management’s Governmentwide Veterans Employment Website is a critical component of the Federal Government’s strategy for the recruitment and employment of Veterans.

Hire Vets First www.hirevetsfirst.dol.gov/search.asp A comprehensive career website for hiring veterans of America's military.

MilitaryHire.com www.militaryhire.com Military Hire is a job and resume website for Veterans. There are thousands of jobs posted by companies. Veterans are able to post their resume and search for jobs for absolutely no cost.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims www.uscourts.cavc.gov The United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims is a national court of record, established under Article I of the Constitution of the United States. The Court has exclusive jurisdiction to provide judicial review of final decisions by the Board of Veterans' Appeals, an entity within the Department of Veterans Affairs. The Court also seeks to help ensure that all Veterans have equal access to the Court.

National Veterans Foundation

Troops To Teachers

1-888-777-4443 www.nvf.org NVF provides outreach services that assist veterans and families in need with food, clothing, transportation, employment, and other essential resources. The NVF Employment Center includes a job center with employment opportunities specifically for Veterans and a job events calendar with job fairs and more.

www.dantes.doded.mil Troops to Teachers provides Counseling and Referral services to military personnel interested in beginning a second career in public education as a teacher. The DANTES Troops to Teachers office will help applicants identify teacher certification requirements, programs leading to certification and employment opportunities.

U.S. Office of Personnel Management Veterans Information

Recruit Military www.recruitmilitary.com 513-683-5020 RecruitMilitary is a full-service military-to-civilian recruiting firm in the United States.

USAJOBS www.usajobs.gov USA JOBS provides job listings to search and apply for employment with the Federal Government.

www.fedshirevets.gov This site contains information for job-seeking veterans, veterans currently employed by the federal government, and federal human resources specialists. This site will assist individuals in determining a Veteran's special rights and privileges for federal civil service employment.

Patriot Guard Riders

Vet Jobs

www.patriotguard.org The Patriot Guard Riders is a diverse amalgamation of riders from across the nation. We have one thing in common besides motorcycles. We have an unwavering respect for those who risk their very lives for Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s freedom and security.

Post 9/11 GI Bill www.gibill.va.gov The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides financial support for education and housing to individuals with at least 90 days of aggregate service on or after September 11, 2001, or individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days. You must have received an honorable discharge to be eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs www.va.gov 1-800-827-1000 The United States has the most comprehensive system of assistance for veterans of any nation in the world. This benefits system traces its roots back to 1636, when the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony were at war with the Pequot Indians. The Continental Congress of 1776 encouraged enlistments during the Revolutionary War by providing pensions for soldiers who were disabled. After the Civil War, many State veterans homes were established. The establishment of the Veterans Administration came in 1930.

www.vetjobs.com 1-877-838-5627 VetJobs is the leading Internet niche job board for reaching military veterans. VetJobs helps with translating the military experience to civilian equivalents jobs. VetJobs has thousands of employers and averages more job postings than any other military or intelligence related job board. The Employment Assistance section has guidance on how to organize a job search, write a resume, interview and identify your next employer.

Army One Source www.myarmyonesource.com Army One Source has links to employment resources for veterans and military spouse.

Career One Stop www.careeronestop.org/militaryspouse/ CareerOneStop's military transition website connects spouses with high quality career planning, training, and job search resources.

Military One Source www.militaryonesource.com 1.800.342.9647 Military One Source will provide individual job consultations and also will do research about what jobs are in your area.

The National Resource Directory www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov The National Resource Directory (NRD) is a Web site for wounded, ill and injured Service Members, Veterans, their families and those who support them. 48

Military Spouse Job Search (MSJS)

National Veterans Legal Services Program

http://msjs.americasjobexchange.com Military Spouse Job Search is designed to enhance the employment opportunities for spouses of US Military members with employers committed to hiring military spouses and to connect employers with a talented, global, diverse workforce.

www.nvlsp.org/ 1-202-265-8305 The National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP) has been the voice of veteransâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rights for more than 25 years. NVLSP is an independent, non-profit, charitable organization acting to ensure that the U.S. government honors the pact made with our 25 million veterans.

Employer Partnership of the Armed Forces www.armyreserve.army.mil The Army Reserve Employer Partnership Initiative recognizes Soldiers for their service. This program is a partnering between the Army Reserve and public and private sectors to maximize potential job opportunities for Soldiers in a variety of positions and career fields.

Office of Veterans Business Development www.sba.gov OVBD is dedicated to serving the veteran entrepreneur by formulating, executing, and promoting policies and programs of the agency that provide assistance to veterans seeking to start and develop small businesses.

Army Spouse Employment Partnership www.myarmyonesource.com ASEP is a group of committed employers from the private sector, military, and federal government who want to hire military spouses and support the military community. Visit the Education, Careers, & libraries section of www.myarmyonesource.com to see a list of ASEP Partners. Click on the ASEP emblem and roll your mouse over the company logos to find information about the company and job application procedures.

www.oldwardogs.us Old War Dogs is a site designed for these old dogs to practice their new tricks blogging without having to compete with the fluid skills of younger, more technically savvy bloggers. While we may be too old to carry a gun in the ranks, we can still pound these keys.

Helmets to Hardhats

Paralyzed Veterans of America

Old War Dogs

www.helmetstohardhats.org Making a successful transition form the military into the civilian workforce can be difficult. Helmets to Hardhats was formed to help Soldiers with their transition into careers in the construction industry.

www.pva.org The Paralyzed Veterans of America, a congressionally chartered veterans service organization founded in 1946, has developed a unique expertise on a wide variety of issues involving the special needs of our membersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; veterans of the armed forces who have experienced spinal cord injury or dysfunction.

FAMILY SUPPORT

Army Reserve Family Programs

Disabled American Veterans

www.arfp.org Gives information on Army Family Team Building, Army Family Action Plan, Child and Youth Services, Volunteer opportunities, Yellow Ribbon Reintegration program, FRG’s, ESGR, Army Reserve Warrior and Family Assistance Center, and current Announcements.

www.dav.org 1-877-426-2838 (877-I AM A Vet) Made up exclusively of men and women disabled in our nation’s defense, the Disabled American Veterans is dedicated to one, single purpose — building better lives for all of our nation’s disabled Veterans and their families. They provide free, professional assistance to Veterans and their families in obtaining benefits and services earned through military service and provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and other agencies of government.

Army Family Covenant www.myarmyonesource.com/ CommunitiesandMarketplace/ArmyFamilyCovenant On 8 October 2007, the Army unveiled the Army Family Covenant, which institutionalizes the Army’s commitment to provide Soldiers and Families a better quality of life. It commits the Army to improve Family readiness by: Standardizing Family programs and services, Increasing accessibility to health care, Improving Soldier and Family housing, Ensuring excellence in child, youth and school services, and Expanding education and employment opportunities for Family members.

Army Family Team Building (AFTB) www.myarmyonesource.com or www.arfp.org AFTB is a volunteer run program that gives Soldiers and Families training and knowledge to become selfsufficient in their communities. Level I focuses on the basics skills and knowledge (“Army 101”), Level II teaches personal development skills, and Level III teaches leadership skills and inspires students to take on leadership roles in their community. AFTB class can be taken online at www.myarmyonesource.com or in a classroom at most Army installations or by contacting your Army Reserve AFTB/AFAP Program Specialist. Once completing the 3 levels you can take the Instructor Trainer Course and be a volunteer instructor for AFTB. 14

Hadit.com Veteran to Veteran www.hadit.com A Veteran Based Site to Guide Veterans through the Veterans Affairs process for filing a claim for service connected disability compensation. They combine the knowledge, skills, and abilities of Veterans to provide other Veterans the information and support they need dealing with the VA system.

Helmets to Hardhats www.helmetstohardhats.org Making a successful transition from the military into the civilian workforce can be difficult. Helmets to Hardhats (H2H) was formed for this reason and is dedicated to helping National Guard, Reserve, retired and transitioning Active Duty military members connect to quality career and training opportunities in one of America's most challenging and rewarding industries – the construction industry

Blinded Veterans Organization

Army Family Action Plan (AFAP)

www.bva.org If you are a blind or visually impaired Veteran, or if you are a relative or a friend of one, or if you just wish to become involved or assist in some way, please contact us. The Blinded Veterans Association was established specifically to help Veterans and their families meet and overcome the challenges of blindness. The organization welcomes those who can offer their ideas, thoughts, and service in achievement of this worthy objective.

www.myarmyonesource.com or www.arfp.org AFAP is a program designed to get the “people’s perspective” of quality of life issues. It is the Army’s primary tool to communicate to leaders issues of importance to Soldiers, Retirees, Family members, and Civilians. Some AFAP issue topics include: Benefits, Entitlements, Education, Medical, Dental, Finances, Childcare, Employment, Relocation, and Family Readiness. To submit an issue go to the www.arfp.org website and click on AR-AFAP issues and submit issue or contact your AFTB/AFAP Program Specialist.

Career One Stop www.careeronestop.org/militarytransition Key to Career Success Web site is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor through the CareerOneStop project as part of the department's assistance to Service Members, military families, employers and the workforce staff serving them. Much of the content in Key to Career Success is based on U.S. Department of Laborsponsored resources and has been customized to meet the needs of recently separated military personnel.

Department of Labor Veterans Opportunities www.dol.gov/dol/jobs/veterans.htm Provides information about how DOL supports the Veterans Hiring Initiative along with links to jobs and resources at DOL and other federal agencies.

Hire Vets First hirevetsfirst.dol.gov This site provides Veterans, Reservists, and National Guard Members with information on the rights and benefits associated with securing employment.

Exceptional Family Member Program www.myarmyonesource.com/ FamilyProgramsandServices/FamilyPrograms/ ExceptionalFamilyMemberProgram The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is a mandatory enrollment program that works with other military and civilian agencies to provide comprehensive and coordinated community support, housing, educational, medical, and personnel services to Families with special needs. The Respite Care Program is a component of EFMP that provides a temporary rest period for Family members responsible for regular care of persons with disabilities.

Army Reserve Warrior and Family Assistance Center www.arfp.org/wfac 1-866-436-6290 Provides a compassionate team of Soldiers to help you find solutions that deal with the challenges we face everyday in the Army Reserve.

Army Well-Being www.armywell-being.org Army Well-Being is directly linked to the relevance and readiness of our Army. Well- Being programs focus on meeting the needs of Soldiers (Active Duty, Army National Guard and Army Reserve), DA Civilians, Veterans, Retirees and Families â&#x20AC;&#x201C; before, during and after deployment. Army Well-Being organizes and integrates these quality of life initiatives and programs into a WellBeing "framework.

ARMY.MIL www.army.mil/community/state The www.army.mil website houses all kinds of information pertaining to Army members as well as some state specific information.

Army Benefits Tool www.myarmybenefits.us.army.mil Army web site with links that Soldiers and Families can use to get information on pay, benefits and entitlements; web site has a section on casualty affairs and survivors assistance.

Fort Family www.fortfamily.org or www.usar411.org 1-866-345-8248 Fort Family is a virtual installation focused on providing Soldiers and their Families with support and quality of life program resources. Support personnel are available 24/7/365!

This is to be a tabbed page with Veterans Benefits on the tab.

FINANCIAL

Army Reserve Family Programs Financial Readiness Program

Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program

www.arfp.org/financialreadiness The Army Reserve Financial Readiness Program offers services to assist Soldiers and their families with their financial planning within the Army Reserve is critical to all Soldiers, more especially the Troop Program Unit (TPU Soldier. Training opportunities are available to Soldiers and Families. AFTB/AFAP Program Managers can schedule Financial Readiness Training for commands at their request. Assistance can be provided for Budgeting, Financial Emergencies, Saving and Investing, Credit and Collection, Home Buying or renting, and Taxes.

The Secretary of Defense initiated the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program which provides information, services, referral and proactive outreach programs to Soldiers of the Army Reserves and their Families through all phases of the deployment cycle.

National Foundation For Consumer Credit (NFCC)

All Soldiers who were deployed outside of the continental U.S. are REQUIRED to register and attend the 30, 60, 90 day post deployment events.

www.nfcc.org NFCC is the nation’s largest and longest serving national , non-profit credit counseling network. They offer budget counseling and education, debt management plans, and financial literacy counseling.

Military Money www.militarymoney.com Military Money supports military families by helping to make informed financial decisions. The website explores financial issues such as money management, home and family life for military families, education and career advice, deployment and relocation and transitioning to the civilian world.

The goal of the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program is to prepare Soldiers and Families for mobilization, sustain Families during mobilization and reintegrate Soldiers with their Families, communities, and employers upon redeployment or REFRAD (Released from Active Duty).

There are seven Events that makeup the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program.  Event 1 is the Alert Phase. The Soldier is notified of the upcoming MOB/Deployment.  Event 2 is the Pre-Deployment Phase. Important paperwork is completed during this phase. A Family Programs Assistant provides the MOB briefing for the Soldier and Family Members. The 107-R is completed with at least one point of contact listed for the Soldier.  Event 3 takes place 30-60 days after the Soldier deploys. This is for the Family Members only.  Event 4 takes place 30-60 days before the Soldier re-deploys. This is for the Family Members only.  Event 5 takes place 30 days after Post Deployment. This is for the Soldier and Family Members. 42

US Wounded Soldier Foundation

My Money

www.uswoundedsoldiers.com 1-214- 924 0269 The mission of the US Wounded Soldier Foundation is to provide for the needs of our combat Veterans deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. It's our way of saying, 'Thank You' for their dedication and loyalty to t the United States and the citizens they have pledged their lives to protect.

www.mymoney.gov Mymoney.gov provides valuable financial education to include retirement calculators, starting a business, and home ownership.

Wounded Warrior www.woundedwarriorproject.org The mission of Wounded Warrior Project is to honor and empower wounded warriors. Their purpose is to raise awareness and enlist the publicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aid for the needs of severely injured service men and women, to help severely injured service members aid and assist each other, and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet the needs of severely injured Service Members.

Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program www.arfp.org The legislatively mandated Yellow Ribbon program provides information, services, referrals and proactive outreach programs to Service Members and their Families through all phases of the deployment cycle. The intent of the program is to prepare the Service Members and their Families for the deployment, sustain their Families during the deployment and reintegrate the Service Members with their Families, communities and employers upon re-deployment or release from active duty.

InCharge Institute www.incharge.org Incharge Institute is a debt solution program and is a partner of the DoD. They are a national, non-profit, credit counseling agency offering confidential and professional budget counseling, debt management, and financial education programs.

Save and Invest www.saveandincest.org Save and Invest is an online resource center providing information on saving and investing as well as a offering financial training.

Smart About Money www.smartaboutmoney.org Provides articles, worksheets, tips, and financial calculators for most financial decisions. The website is dedicated to helping families make sound financial decisions throughout lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ups and downs.

Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) www.tsp.gov TSP is a Federal Government-sponsored retirement savings and investment plan. It offers the same type of savings and tax benefits that many private corporations offer their employees under 401(k) plans.

Army Emergency Relief (AER)

The Armed Forces Foundation

www.aerhq.org AER is the Army’s own emergency financial assistance organization and is dedicated to “Helping the Army Take Care of Its Own.” Reservists must be on Title 10 orders for more than 30days. Assistance is available for: food, rent, emergency transportation and vehicle repair, medical and dental, personal needs when pay is delayed or stolen, and funeral expenses. All loans are interest free and some assistance are grants.

www.armedforcesfoundation.org 1-202-547-4713 The Armed Forces Foundation is dedicated to providing comfort and solace to members of the military community through financial support, career counseling, housing assistance and recreational therapy programs. They offer programs to Active Duty, Retired personnel, National Guard and Reserve component and their loved ones.

Service Members Civil Relief Act

United Service Organization (USO)

www.military.com/benefits/legal-matters/scra/overview Soldiers on Title 10 orders can gain legal protections to include: Termination of Residential Leases, Automobile Leases, Evictions from leased housing, 6% Interest Rate on credit cards, loans , and mortgages, Enforcement of Liabilities and Taxes.

www.uso.org The USO is a congressionally chartered, nonprofit organization, and is not a part of the federal government. Since 1941, the USO mission has remained the same: to provide morale, welfare and recreation-type services to service members and their families.

Family Support Network

United We Serve

www.legion.org/familysupport 1800-504-4098 The American Legion’s Family Support Network is ready to provide immediate assistance to service personnel and families whose lives have been directly affected by Operation Iraqi Freedom and America’s War on terror.

www.unitedweservemil.org

Unmet Needs www.vfw.org This is a VFW program, funded by donations to be granted to military families in need. Just click on Programs and National Military Services (VFW Support) and Unmet needs for more information.

1-972-398-2327

The BattleBuddy Program helps give Service Members and Veterans back one of the most important things they have lost when they come home from war or separate from Military service, a BattleBuddy. Imagine going through life in a world where you don't quite fit in anymore, and where no one quite understands what you have been through. There are others just like you, and they are seeking someone to walk through it with too. BattleBuddy facilitates those relationships, for veterans and family members alike. BattleBuddy Family Retreats are the foundation of the program.

Soldierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Angels

Savings Deposit Program (SDP)

www.soldiersangels.com 1-626-529-5114 Soldiers' Angels is a volunteer-led non-profit organization providing aid and comfort to the men and women of the United States Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and their families. â&#x20AC;&#x153;May No Soldier Go Unloved," encapsulates the motivation behind Soldiers' Angels. The volunteers of Soldiers' Angels work tirelessly to demonstrate active care and concern for veterans, the wounded, deployed service members and their families.

This Program allows Soldiers who are serving in a combat zone to earn a higher rate of interest on the money they deposit into savings. Must be in a combat zone for at least 30 days and be receiving hostile fire pay. Can save up to $10,000 in a single deployment at an annual interest rate of 10%. Account stops earning interest 90 days after redeployment.

TurboTAP.Org www.turbotap.org The DoD Transition Assistance Program was developed to assist in the transitioning of military personnel and family members leaving the service. Returning to civilian life is an exciting time, but is also a complex undertaking. There are many steps to take, with questions to be answered. The DoD Transition Assistance Program is here to help.

Military.com www.military.com Offers a tax guide provides information specific to military taxes, such as figuring gross income, combat zone exclusion, doing taxes overseas, family spouse issues, permanent change of station, civilian exemptions as well as information on filling taxes.

Military One Source www.militaryonesource.com 1-800-342-9647 Provides free tax filling services and free tax consultations to military members and their families.

The American Freedom Foundation

Better Business Bureau Military Line

www.americanfreedomfoundation.org The American Freedom Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)3 public benefit corporation organized to honor veterans of America's armed forces and raise money and awareness for various veterans' organizations with special emphasis directed to welfare and educational issues facing those wounded in action, those disabled and families and children of veterans killed in action during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

www.bbb.org/us/military BBB Military Line is a program of the non-profit U.S. Better Business Bureau (BBB) system, and encourages service members, retirees, DoD civilians and their families to use the free consumer services and materials offered by the BBB.

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Free Annual Credit Report

Operation Homefront

www.annualcreditreport.com AnnualCreditReport.com allows consumers to obtain a free credit report from each to the three nationwide consumer credit reporting companies once every twelve months.

www.operationhomefront.net 1-800-722-6098 Operation Homefront provides emergency financial and other assistance to the families of our Service Members and Wounded Warriors. Operation Homefront provides direct services to alleviate a military familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s actual/complete emergency financial burden, as well as counseling and/or recovery support

Operation Second Chance www.operationsecondchance.org 1-301-938-2834 Provides support for the Soldiers and Marines while they at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and then to further assist them when they transition either back to duty or back to civilian life. They provide aid in the recovery and rehabilitation of wounded service men and women, to assist in the modification of housing to accommodate disabled veterans, to assist the families of wounded service men and women and to facilitate the transition of wounded Service Men and Women back into civilian society.

Our Military Kids www.ourmilitarykids.org/ 866-691-6654 Our Military Kids grants are made to honor the sacrifices military parents make and to ensure that the children have access to activities and support that help the children better cope with challenges arising during a parent's deployment or injury recovery.

HOUSING

Army Housing Referral Network

Freedom Is Not Free

www.ahrn.com This website is designed to improve the process of securing available housing for relocating military members and their families. Members can search for off-base rentals, military FSBOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, military shared rentals, and temporary lodging accommodations. It is free to post a rental, roommate wanted, or a for sale by owner listing. This site is sponsored by the DoD and all military services.

www.freedomisnotfree.com 1-858-847-9999 Freedom is not free is a mission driven organization dedicated to assisting wounded Service Members and their families, and the families of the fatally wounded. They fulfill their mission by making grants to Purple Heart recipients and their families to meet their immediate financial needs, including but not limited to, the expenses associated with medical care, travel, home modification and paying bills.

Military By Owner www.militarybyowner.com This site allows military families to advertise their home for sale by owner or for rent, for a small fee. You can also search for homes for sale or rent and by military base location. Some moving resources are provided as well.

Military HOMEFRONT www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil/moving Military HOMEFRONT has an abundance of information and resources for military moves. Plan a move, search military installations, look-up benefits and allowances, and use budget and planning worksheets all on this website.

Fisher House www.fisherhouse.org 1-888- 294-8560 The Fisher House program is a unique private-public partnership that supports America's military in their time of need. The program recognizes the special sacrifices of our men and women in uniform and the hardships of military service by meeting a humanitarian need beyond that normally provided by the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs. The Fisher House Foundation donates "comfort homes," built on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers. These homes enable family members to be close to a loved one at the most stressful time - during the hospitalization for an unexpected illness, disease, or injury. No family pays to stay at any Fisher House!

Operation Family Fund www.operationfamilyfund.org 760-793-0053 To assist the injured and families of the those who have been injured or killed as a part of the Global War on Terrorism, domestic or abroad, military or civilian. 22

Army Wounded Warrior Program

VA Home Loans

www.aw2.army.mil 1-800)-237-1336 Taking care of wounded warriors is an important part of the Army's mission. The Army Wounded Warrior Program (AW2) is the official U.S. Army program that assists and advocates for severely wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers, Veterans, and their Families, wherever they are located, for as long as it takes. AW2 provides individualized support to this unique population of Soldiers, who were injured or became ill during their service in Overseas Contingency Operations since 9/11.

www.homeloans.va.gov www.valaons.com This is a military benefit offered by the VA for home loans. Currently the only home loan that you can put $0 down on a home. Check out the website for application requirements and current rates.

Better Business Bureau Military Line www.bbb.org/us/military As a partner in the Department of Defense (DoD) Financial Readiness Campaign, BBB Military LineÂŽ brings BBB services to military personnel (including Reservists and National Guard), retirees, DoD civilians, and their families. Through Memoranda of Understanding with the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps, and through status as a Coast Guard Qualified Organization, BBB Military Line offers a variety of free services and consumer education to the military via local BBB outreach as well as on the Web

Give 2 The Troops www.give2thetroops.org To support the physical, moral, and spiritual health of America's armed forces in combat zones around the world through the letters and packages prepared and shipped by caring volunteers.

Homeownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Assistance Program http://hapusace.army.mil The Department of Defense (DOD) is proud to offer the Homeowners Assistance Program (HAP) to eligible service members and federal civilian, including nonappropriated fund, employees. The program is authorized by law, and administered by the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to assist eligible homeowners who face financial loss when selling their primary residence homes in areas where real estate values have declined because of a base closure or realignment announcement. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) temporarily expands the HAP to assist service members and DOD employees who are wounded, injured or become ill when deployed, surviving spouses of service members or DOD employees killed or died of wounds while deployed, service member and civilian employees assigned to BRAC 05 organizations, and service members required to permanently relocate during the home mortgage crisis.

Check Your Installations Relocation Program and Housing Office for more Information! 23

LEGAL

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JAGCNET www.jagcnet.army.mil JAGCNET provides information on all legal matters. You may also contact your local installations JAG office or your commands Staff Judge Advocate for legal advice.

U.S. Armed Forces Legal Assistance www.legalassistance.law.af.mil This site is a joint initiative of the Armed Forces legal assistance offices that aims to provide general legal information to the military community to enhance its readiness.

Operation Enduring Lamp www.abanet.org/legalservices/helpreservists Operation Enduring Lamp is an ongoing project of the American Bar Association Standing Committee on legal assistance for military personnel. It is a group of state and local bar associations that have made a commitment to recruit volunteer attorneys ,and in many cases offer training and facilities to volunteers, in order to assist military legal assistance providers with civil law matters affecting service members.

MEDICAL

Military.com

TRICARE

www.military.com Military.com's free membership connects Service Members, military families and Veterans to all the benefits of service â&#x20AC;&#x201D; government benefits, scholarships, discounts, lifelong friends, mentors, great stories of military life or missions, and much more. We believe that the benefits earned in the service should be easier to access and written in plain English. We're passionate about helping members make the most of military experience throughout life.

www.tricare.mil North: 1-877-874-2273 South: 1-800-444-5445 West: 1-888-874-9378 Check out the website for TRICARE benefits and TRICARE Reserve Select Plan information.

National Park Service www.nps.gov Since 1916, the American people have entrusted the National Park Service with the care of their national parks. With the help of volunteers and park partners, we are proud to safeguard these nearly 400 places and to share their stories with more than 275 million visitors every year.

National Resource Directory www.nationalresourcedirectory,gov The National Resource Directory (NRD) is a Web site for wounded, ill and injured Service Members, Veterans, their families and those who support them. It provides access to services and resources at the national, state and local levels to support recovery, rehabilitation and community reintegration. Visitors can find information on a variety of topics including benefits & compensation, education & training, employment, family & caregiver support, health, homeless assistance, housing, transportation & travel and other services & resources.

Operation Hero Miles

WarriorCare.mil

www.heromiles.org The nonprofit Fisher House Foundation administers the "Hero Miles" program for the Department of Defense. The program is comprised of individual airlines whose passengers donate their frequent flyer miles to assist service members and their families. Specifically, Fisher House Foundation provides free airline tickets to military men and women who are undergoing treatment at a military or VA medical center incident to their service in Iraq or Afghanistan, and their families.

www.warriorcare.mil WarriorCare.mil serves a portal to various resources for wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers.

Strategic Outreach to Families of Reservists www.sofarusa.org Strategic Outreach to Families of All Reservists is a pro bono, mental health project that provides free psychological support, psychotherapy, and prevention services to extended family of reserve and national guard deployed during the Global War on Terrorism from time of alert through the period of reunion and reintegration.

Suicide Prevention Know the Signs Watch for these key suicide warning signs, and provide the Lifeline number to anyone exhibiting them.

Talking about wanting to hurt or kill oneself Trying to get pills, guns, or other ways to harm oneself

Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide Hopelessness Rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge Acting in a reckless or risky way Feeling trapped, like there is no way out Saying or feeling there's no reason for living. If someone you care about shows any of these warning signs, be an ACE: ASK CARE ESCORT

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org 1-800-273-TALK (8255) Veterans Press 1 The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a 24-hour, toll-free, confidential suicide prevention hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. The call is routed to the nearest crisis center in their national network of more than 140 crisis centers. The Lifeline’s national network of local crisis centers, provide crisis counseling and mental health referrals day and night.

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The Trevor Romain Foundation www.trevorromainfoundation.org The Trevor Romain Foundation is a nonprofit organization. They create and produce a series of comfort kits that are customized to meet a child’s specific needs. Whether a child has experienced the loss of a loved one, has a family member deployed in the military, or has been diagnosed with cancer, a comfort kit will be developed to include resources that are both educational and comforting to that child.

Army Reserve Warrior &Family Assistance Center arwfac@usar.army.mil 1- 866.345.8248 We help all members of the Army Reserve Community deal with the challenges we face every day. When you call on us for help, we become partners with you in finding solutions. Our motto is “Whatever it Takes” and that’s what we’ll do to connect you with the solutions you deserve.

Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors

Behavioral Health

www.taps.org 1-800-959-8277 (TAPS) TAPS is the 24/7 tragedy assistance resource for ANYONE who has suffered the loss of a military loved one, regardless of the relationship to the deceased or the circumstance of the death. TAPS has established itself as the front line resource to the families and loved ones of our military men and women

www.behavioralhealth.army.mil Information for Soldiers, their Families and the public on how to help Soldiers deal with the stress of war. Topics include-behavioral-health needs before, during and after deployments; pre-and post-deployment health assessments; post-traumatic stress disorder; suicide prevention; Battlemind training; and resources where Soldiers and Families can get help. Some of the tools available will help Families recognize symptoms of stress disorders, and help parents explain deployments to children of various ages.

Veterans Administration Survivor Services www.vba.va.gov/survivors This web site is dedicated to the surviving spouses and dependents of military personnel who died while in active military service and to the survivors of veterans who died after active service. We are grateful for the opportunity to provide quality information and assistance to family members suffering the loss of their husbands and wives, sons and daughters.

DoD’s Mental Health Self-Assessment www.pdhealth.mil/mhsa.asp 1-877-877-3647 An online survey that Soldiers and Family Members can take anonymously at any time to assess whether they have symptoms of a mental health issue, the assessment does not provide a diagnosis, but serves as a screening tool; in the printout, individuals are provided with a resource list.

31 27

Kristin Brooks Hope Center

National Military Family Association

www.hopeline.com/ 1.800.SUICIDE (1.800.784.2433) The Kristin Brooks Hope Center was created to help those in crisis find help and hope immediately. The site gives you a raw, personal glimpse into depression, and how it affects those around you. In addition, you will find the only clear, step-by-step path for you to follow out of the darkness.

www.militaryfamily.org/ 703.931.6632 The National Military Family Association is an organization with strong grassroots support balanced with professionalism that makes us a leader in the field. Not only do we support military families â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we are military families. Spouses, parents, and family members make up our staff and board positions. We speak up on behalf of military families and empower husbands, wives, and children to understand and access their benefits.

Military One Source www.militaryonesource.com 1-800-342-9647 Military OneSource is here to help you with just about any need. Available by phone or online, our free service is provided by the Department of Defense for activeduty, Guard, and Reserve service members and their families. The service is completely private and confidential, with few exceptions.

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) www.myarmyonesource.com Our Fallen Warriors have paid the ultimate sacrifice. The Army has a commitment to their Families. Those families deserve our respect, gratitude and the very best we can provide. The purpose of SOS is to deliver on that commitment by providing access to support, information and services to the closest location to where the Survivor resides when and for as long as they desire.

The Soldiers Project www.thesoldiersproject.org 1-877-576-5343 The Soldiers Project is a private, non-profit, independent group of volunteer licensed mental health professionals including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, registered nurses and marriage and family therapists. They provide free counseling and support to military Service Members who have served or who expect to serve in the Iraq and/or Afghanistan conflicts and to Veterans of those conflicts. They see Active Duty as well as members of activated Reserve or Guard units and their Family Members.

The National Resource Directory www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/ The National Resource Directory (NRD) is a Web site for wounded, ill and injured Service Members, Veterans, their families and those who support them.

28 30

SURVIVOR SUPPORT

American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. www.goldstarmoms.com 202-265-0991 Welcome to American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. We're an organization of mothers who have lost a son or daughter in the service of our country. If you've lost your child in the service of the country and would like the community of others in your situation, we invite you to join us. No one knows how you feel like another mother who has lost a child.

Army Well-Being www.armywell-being.org We champion Well Being as a lifestyle. We help Soldiers (Active Duty, Army National Guard and Army Reserve), Army Family Members, DA Civilians, Veterans and Retirees improve their lives and careers with myriad news, information and actionable recourses.

Gold Star Wives of America www.goldstarwives.org 1-888-751-6350 Gold Star Wives of America, Incorporated is an organization of widows and widowers whose spouses died while on active duty in the military services or as the result of a military service connected cause. The primary mission of GSW is to provide service, support and friendship to the widows and widowers.

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Kristin Brooks Hope Center

National Military Family Association

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Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors

Behavioral Health

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TRAVEL

Military.com

TRICARE

www.tricare.mil North: 1-877-874-2273 South: 1-800-444-5445 West: 1-888-874-9378 Check out the website for TRICARE benefits and TRICARE Reserve Select Plan information.

Operation Hero Miles

WarriorCare.mil

www.warriorcare.mil WarriorCare.mil serves a portal to various resources for wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers.

The Armed Forces Vacation Club

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www.afvclub.com 1-800-724-9988 The Armed Forces Vacation ClubÂŽ (AFVC) is a "space available" program that offers military and other Department of Defense-affiliated personnel the opportunity to enjoy vacations at popular destinations around the world â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for the incredibly low price of just $369* USD per unit, per week. Armed Forces Personnel and their family and friends have access to spacious accommodations at more than 3,500 resorts, apartments, condominiums and homes in more than 80 countries.

U.S. Army MWR www.armymwr.com Soldiers are entitled to the same quality of life as is afforded the society they are pledged to defend. Keeping an Army ready to fight and win takes more than hard work and training. Soldiers need a balance of work and play. The FMWRC mission is to create and maintain "First Choice" MWR products and services for America's Army, essential to a ready, self-reliant force.

TROOP SUPPORT

after deployment.org

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www.afterdeployment.org Approximately 20% of OIF/OEF Service Members report adjustment problems in the months following a deployment. Limited provider availability and the stigma of being labeled with a â&#x20AC;&#x153;mental illnessâ&#x20AC;? are some of the barriers to seeking face-to-face care. In this light, the need for online behavioral health tools has never been greater. afterdeployment.org is an online resource supporting Service Members, their Families, and Veterans, with common post-deployment concerns. The website provides self-care solutions targeting post-traumatic stress, depression, anger, sleep, relationship concerns, and other mental health challenges.

Army OneSource www.myarmyonesource.com 1-877-811-ARMY Our goal is to provide access to accurate and timely information about a variety of topics to Soldiers & Family members. Army OneSource (AOS) will improve the awareness of and accessibility to programs and services that support Soldiers & Family members, especially those who are geographically dispersed and do not live close to an installation.

Guardian Angels for Soldiers Pets www.guardianangelsforsoldierspet.org Supporting our Military, Veterans, and their beloved Pets to ensure the pets are reunited with their owners following a deployment (combat or peace-keeping mission) in harm's way to fight the global war on terrorism or unforeseen emergency hardship impacting their ability to retain their pet's ownership rights.

Army Wounded Warrior Program

VA Home Loans

Check Your Installations Relocation Program and Housing Office for more Information! 23

Army Housing Referral Network

Freedom Is Not Free

Military Pets Foster Project www.netpets.org NetPets.Org's, MilitaryPetsFOSTER Project has been created to be the liaison between those of you who have to have your beloved pets fostered and the foster homes all over this country. The actual fostering is a free service. Any veterinary expenses, pharmacy, foods and other extraordinary expense of this type will, of course, be your responsibility. We at NetPets.Org, all of our members & volunteers, salute you for protecting our country and keeping us safe & secure.

Operation First Response www.operationfirstresponse.org 1-888-289-0280 Operation First Response serves all branches of our nations Wounded Warriors and their families with personal and financial needs. Services are provided from the onset of injury or illness, throughout their recovery period and along their journey from military life to the civilian world.

Operation Forever Free www.operationforeverfree.org 469-892-7200 The Directors of Operation Forever Free are involved in land development and the home-building industry. Collectively, a decision was made to form an organization that would express gratitude by financially assisting Service Men and Women who have been wounded. Operation Forever Free will review the needs of injured service men and women, as they are brought to the attention of the organization. Operation Forever Free will then evaluate and assess the organization's ability to meet such needs. 37

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Free Annual Credit Report

Operation Homefront

www.annualcreditreport.com AnnualCreditReport.com allows consumers to obtain a free credit report from each to the three nationwide consumer credit reporting companies once every twelve months.

Soldierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Angels

Savings Deposit Program (SDP)

Military One Source www.militaryonesource.com 1-800-342-9647 Provides free tax filling services and free tax consultations to military members and their families.

The American Freedom Foundation

Better Business Bureau Military Line

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Army Emergency Relief (AER)

The Armed Forces Foundation

Service Members Civil Relief Act

United Service Organization (USO)

Family Support Network

United We Serve

www.unitedweservemil.org

1-972-398-2327

US Wounded Soldier Foundation

My Money

www.mymoney.gov Mymoney.gov provides valuable financial education to include retirement calculators, starting a business, and home ownership.

Save and Invest www.saveandincest.org Save and Invest is an online resource center providing information on saving and investing as well as a offering financial training.

Army Reserve Family Programs Financial Readiness Program

Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program

National Foundation For Consumer Credit (NFCC)

All Soldiers who were deployed outside of the continental U.S. are REQUIRED to register and attend the 30, 60, 90 day post deployment events.

 

Event 6 takes place 60 days after Post-Deployment and is for the Soldier and Family Members. Event 7 takes place 90 days after Post-Deployment. This event is only for the Soldier.

The program includes information on current benefits and resources available to help overcome the challenges of reintegration. The 30, 60, 90 day post-deployment or REFRAD requirements are for reintegration purposes only are preformed in Annual Training (AT) status for the Soldiers. Soldiers are authorized to bring 2 Family Members at government expense. However, additional Family Members will be considered on an individual basis if room is available. Dates and locations for events are listed on the Army Reserve Family Programs home page at www.arfp.org. Soldiers must register on-line and immediately notify the Family Programs Office and their Unit of Assignment. Family Programs will ensure funding is made available to all authorized attendees. Units will provide assistance and local procedures for order processing. Invitational Travel Worksheets will be required for each Family Member who attends the event, in order to process Travel Authorizations. It’s critical that processing of travel authorizations not be delayed. All attendees must have orders in hand prior travel start date. Soldiers can contact the 84th Family Programs at 502624-8956 for additional information, dates or assistance in getting yourself and your Family Members registered for the events.

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VETERANS BENEFITS

Blinded Veterans Organization

Army Family Action Plan (AFAP)

Hire Vets First hirevetsfirst.dol.gov This site provides Veterans, Reservists, and National Guard Members with information on the rights and benefits associated with securing employment.

Army Reserve Family Programs

Disabled American Veterans

HireVeterans.com www.hireveterans.com As part of The Veterans Today Network, we service hundreds of thousands of job seekers from the military community - Active Service Members, Veterans, DoD Civilians, Spouses, Family Members and others. Recognized by industry experts as a leader, we offer Employers access to resumes and job postings so that they can reach our unique visitors. For U.S. Veteran Job Seekers, we offer the very best and relevant jobs offered by world class companies in the USA and abroad. Through our alliances with many veterans organizations and other military agencies, HireVeterans.com has established its brand as a top e-recruiting site for the veterans of our armed forces.

National Veterans Foundation www.nvf.org 1-888-777-4443 To serve the crisis management, information and referral needs of all U.S. Veterans and their families through: Management and operation of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only toll-free helpline for all veterans and their families.

National Veterans Training Institute www.nvti.ucdenver.edu/home NVTI was established in 1986 to further develop and enhance the professional skills of veterans' employment and training service providers throughout the United States. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor / Veterans' Employment and Training Service, and administered by the University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center with training conducted in Denver, Colorado and at selected regional sites in the U.S. and abroad.

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Military Spouse Job Search (MSJS)

National Veterans Legal Services Program

Helmets to Hardhats

Paralyzed Veterans of America

Old War Dogs

Patriot Guard Riders

Vet Jobs

Army One Source www.myarmyonesource.com Army One Source has links to employment resources for veterans and military spouse.

Career One Stop www.careeronestop.org/militaryspouse/ CareerOneStop's military transition website connects spouses with high quality career planning, training, and job search resources.

Military One Source www.militaryonesource.com 1.800.342.9647 Military One Source will provide individual job consultations and also will do research about what jobs are in your area.

Hire Vets First www.hirevetsfirst.dol.gov/search.asp A comprehensive career website for hiring veterans of America's military.

National Veterans Foundation

Troops To Teachers

U.S. Office of Personnel Management Veterans Information

Recruit Military www.recruitmilitary.com 513-683-5020 RecruitMilitary is a full-service military-to-civilian recruiting firm in the United States.

USAJOBS www.usajobs.gov USA JOBS provides job listings to search and apply for employment with the Federal Government.

VA Loans

Army Career and Alumni Program (ACAP)

www.valoans.com This site provides facts and figures about VA lending limits by state.

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Veterans and Families.org www.veteransandfamilies.org To help our Veterans get home both mentally and emotionally so they may reconnect with their families to raise happy, healthy children in a safe and stable environment where both parents are supportive and emotionally available. To assist our homecoming Veterans and their families in successfully transitioning home from deployment and from military to civilian life and to keep families together through the trials of homecoming while working in tandem with all government and civilian resources, agencies, employers and educators.

Veterans of Foreign Wars www.vfw.org The VFWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to " honor the dead by helping the living" through Veterans' service, community service, national security and a strong national defense. The VFW's voice has been instrumental in establishing the Veterans Administration, creating a GI bill for the 20th century and developing the national cemetery system.

The American Legion www.legion.org The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest Veterans service organization, committed to mentoring and sponsorship of youth programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting a strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow Service Members and Veterans.

YOUTH

Thanks USA

Boys and Girls Clubs of America

Tillman Military Scholarships

Jump$tart Coalition for Financial Literacy

Military Brat Life

Military One Source

Military Impacted Schools Association

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www.militaryimpactedschoolsassociation.org Military Impacted Schools Association (MISA) is a national organization of school superintendents. Our mission is to serve school districts with a high concentration of military children. Formed in 1986, MISA works on funding, legislation, partnerships and programs for military families on the move. MISA conducts workshops for educators and provides resources on connectedness, building resilience, military life, transition, and deployment.

Military Youth on The Move http://apps.mhf.dod.mil/myom Moving can be really exciting, but it can also be pretty hard. This site was designed with you in mind, covering topics specifically for military youth, like dealing with a deployment and moving to a new location, but also everyday youth topics like dealing with divorce, getting enough exercise and making money!

National Guard Youth Challenge Program www.ngycp.org The mission of the National Guard Youth Challenge Program is to intervene in and reclaim the lives of 1618 year old high school dropouts, producing program graduates with the values, life skills, education, and self-discipline necessary to succeed as productive citizens.

Military One Source

INDEX

Military Family Life Consultants (MFLC)

INDEX

MilitaryOneSource www.MilitaryOneSource.com 1-800-342-9647

INDEX National Guard Youth Program 55 National Military Family Association 30 National Park Service 32 National Resource Directory 25, 30, & 48 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 26 National Veterans Foundation 11 & 46 National Veterans Legal Service Program 47 National Veterans Training Institute 46 Office of Veterans Business Development 47 Old War Dogs 47 Operation Enduring Lamp 24 Operation Family Fund 36 Operation First Response 37 Operation Forever Free 37 Operation Hero Miles 32 Operation Homefront 6 & 38 Operation Military Kids (OMK) 55 Operation Second Chance 38 Operation Stephenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Touch 5 Our Military Kids 38 Paralyzed Veterans of America 47 Patriot Guard Riders 48 Post 9/11 GI Bill 9 & 48 Quick Links 1 Recruit Military 11 Save and Invest 18 Savings Deposit Program (SDP) 20 Scholarships for Military Children 55 Service Members Civil Relief Act 19 Sittercity 2 Smart About Money 18 Soldierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Angels 39 Strategic Outreach to Families of Reservists 25 Suicide Prevention 26 Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) 30 Thanks USA 8

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NACCRRA

INDEX

NOTES

QUICK LINKS

American Red Cross www.redcross.org 1-877-272-7337

Army OneSource www.myarmyonesource.com

Army Reserve Family Programs www.arfp.org

Military Homefront: www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil

Military One Source www.MilitaryOneSource.com 1800-342-9647

Military Installations www.militaryinstallations.dod.mil

Operation Homefront www.operationhomefront.net 1800-722-6098

Operation Military Kids www.operationmilitarykids.org 1800-464-8107

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Important Information and Point of Contacts (POC)

Acknowledgements:

84th Training Command Commanding General MG Jeffrey W. Talley Email: jeffrey.w.talley@us.army.mil

Special Thanks to the 84th Family Programs for putting together this resource book, the Families who supplied the awesome pictures for the cover, and Sarah Andriola for designing our cover.

84th Training Command Command Sergeant Major CSM Daniel J. Zebrauskas Email: dan.zebrauskas@us.army.mil

Disclaimer:

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