T H E
S T A T I O N
F O U N D A T I O N
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ANNUAL REPORT
2017 ANNUAL REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS 2-3
__________________ OUR
MISSION :
4-5
__________________ OUR
FOCUS :
HOMECOMING FOR THE SOF COMMUNITY
LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
6-17 __________________ LEGACY : MENTORING GOLD STAR YOUTH 6-9
_________________________ INTRODUCTION
10-13_________________________ THE CROSSING 14-17___________________________ LiT – LEADERS IN TRAINING 18-21__________________ NEW
CONSTRUCTION :
KID’S PLAYGROUND
22-25__________________ NEW
CONSTRUCTION :
ART CENTER
26-39__________________ HOMECOMING : RESTORATION FOR SOF FAMILIES 26-29___________________________ INTRODUCTION 30-33___________________________ FAMILY FOUNDATION WORKSHOPS 34-35___________________________ SPOUSE PERFORMANCE PROGAM 36-37___________________________ RESTORE 38-39___________________________ TrAC 40-43__________________ FINANCIALS : THE YEAR IN NUMBERS 40-41___________________________ INTRODUCTION 42-43___________________________ THE YEAR IN NUMBERS
The freedom our nation enjoys will never be taken for granted. The Station
™
was founded by SOF veterans who understand the sacrifices our quiet warrior families make in service to our nation. We honor their commitment and strive to support them as they return home and reintegrate into their family and community.
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Homecoming is more than returning from active duty. Readjusting proves difficult for 2
many SOF warriors and families. So when they arrive at Base Camp Jimmy, we walk with them side-by-side, listening to their story. And share our own history of the journey home only when the time is right and they are ready.
OUR MISSION
HOMECOMING FOR THE SOF COMMUNITY The effects of combat extend well beyond the battlefield – disrupting the lives of service members and their families. This is especially true for the nation’s most quiet professionals – our Special Operations Forces (SOF). The heavy demands and ever-increasing expectations SOF endure make it extremely difficult for them to preserve health, wellness and readiness. As SOF members, we knew firsthand the cumulative burden of combat. And how crucial it was to provide the same level of support to returning personnel as they were provided during combat. We felt the urgency to protect this community before it was too late.
The result is
The Station Foundation ®. Since October 2012, The Station has impacted over 400 families. Because we understand the stigma involved for any SOF who seeks help, we provide a safe, remote, intimate environment where families can focus on rebuilding relationships and learn how to use their unique skillset to flourish upon their return to community life.
Early on,
we recognized that family transition workshops were just one void in SOF care. So The Station began tailoring workshops to support a variety of SOF service members (active duty, transitioning, or separated from the military), spouses, children, and GOLD STAR* families. *GOLD GOLD STAR identifies children and spouses of SOF warriors who lost their life in service to our country.
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OUR FOCUS
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The vital difference we strive to make is reflected in the success of SOF individuals and families as they continue to thrive in life beyond military service. The Station exists to foster the hope that prevails when our participants invest fully in themselves and those they love. This report intends to reflect the joy and deep connections gained through those who visit The Station. But it can only hint at the tremendous work, dedication and perseverance our participants put forth to make such moments a reality. Reporting on our progress reminds me of how much these families invest in themselves and how important these experiences are for our country as it struggles to heal from war. Homecoming is just the first step on the long road back for a nation that remains consumed by combat. 2017 brought over 100 families through The Station, with over 400 families served to date. Our Legacy Project – which addresses the needs of GOLD STAR children – tripled in size. We’ve doubled many of our Homecoming Project programs and continue to design authentic solutions that relieve the unrelenting burdens and sacrifices endured by our nation’s quiet professionals and their families. I am grateful to be part of an organization that commits itself daily to address this incredibly complex problem. It is an honor to be part of The Station. I hope you see the hope, resilience and a relentless commitment to living life fully that is reflected in the following pages. Thank you for being a part of this – we could not do it without you.
KEVIN STACY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR THE STATION FOUNDATION 4
Sometimes getting lost is the first step in finding ourselves again.
The Station’s approach incorporates mental, physical and emotional challenges – because we know engaging both our mind and body is the path to a balanced, healthy life. The Montana wilderness setting unplugs participants from their daily routine and provides an opportunity to focus on their core in new, profound ways.
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3x
MORE PEOPLE PARTICIPATED IN THE CROSSING EXPERIENCE
We honor the promises made to our fallen warriors. You are never 6
forgotten. We will take care of your family. Your life serves as a source of strength and love.
LEGACY
MENTORING GOLD STAR YOUTH Our GOLD STAR children are young, but have already endured profound loss and disruption. When they arrive at The Station, we pair them with SOF members who served alongside their parent. These mentors share insights about who their parent was, what they stood for, and how their son or daughter reflects their very best. CONTINUTED ON NEXT PAGE
IN THEIR OWN WORDS “This is one place I feel like I belong...” – Braelyn B., Special Forces GOLD STAR daughter
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LEGACY
MENTORING GOLD STAR YOUTH The Station equips our GOLD STAR children to flourish in the face of ongoing and future challenges. We help them learn who they are and how to develop their strengths. We stand beside them throughout middle school, high school and college – providing mentorship, scholarships and then internships in their chosen career.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS “...Since The Station, my kids do their chores – without being told...The mood in our house is so peaceful and full of respect...Lorenz and Loraine have taken over the clean up of our garage – with no complaints or whining...I am truly grateful.” – Lourdes P., Navy GOLD STAR spouse
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The strength to be unstoppable comes from within. GOLD STAR kids visit The Station at a critical stage in life. We provide guidance and knowledge. They develop themselves into young men and women ready to face whatever challenges life has in store.
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3x+
INCREASE IN PARTICIPATION FOR 2017-2018 YEAR
Gathering the cherished. Honoring the Fallen. THE CROSSING lets GOLD STAR 10
adolescents learn about their Fallen Warrior parent, themselves and how to develop personal strengths that will serve them as they move forward to choose their own path in life.
LEGACY
THE CROSSING Adolescent GOLD STAR children are paired with SOF mentors who served beside their parent in this 12-day right of passage wilderness/ survival training experience. The youth gain valuable insight into their parent’s life.
And an opportunity for them to see their own personality traits as a reflection of their parent’s strength. CONTINUTED ON NEXT PAGE
IN THEIR OWN WORDS “My experience with THE CROSSING was an instant fix.” – Barrett R., NSW GOLD STAR son
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LEGACY
THE CROSSING THE CROSSING experience fosters maturity and self-confidence. And helps prepare our GOLD STAR kids to cross the critical thresholds that lie ahead. And enjoy a life filled with meaning and purpose.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS “I think what you are doing is unbelievable. The experience with all of the kids was something I will never forget. The children were not the only ones who underwent a healing process. Myself especially, will go home and put a little more time, patience and love into my familiy. I believe the kids will not forget their experience there and will apply those lessons learned to any situation in life. Great job! I don’t know how you do it, but keep it up!” – Chuck H, USASOC, Mentor
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Critical insight. Practical knowledge. THE CROSSING Is a blend of self-discovery and guided preparation for becoming independent, thoughtful and savvy at a time when those qualities are usually in short supply.
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2x+
INCREASE IN LiT PARTICIPATION FOR 2017-2018 YEAR
In the end, you answer to yourself first. No one else can give you the strength 14
of character that chooses to do the right thing when no one else will ever know. That is your gift to you.
OWTH
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LEGACY
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As our GOLD STAR children reach their teens, they join the LiT program. LiT (Leaders in Training) – a 40-week development program – is designed to prepare them for a life of meaning and purpose. Each LiT participant utilizes the guidance of their parent, community volunteers and a mentor from The Station. CONTINUTED ON NEXT PAGE
IN THEIR OWN WORDS “Sepp has met or exceeded the metrics for the Bronze level program. He is very engaged with his family and takes the family enrichment part of the program seriously. I know Sepp takes a lot of pride in maintaining his relationships with each individual member of the family. I think this qualitative aspect is one of Sepp’s strongest suits.” – Andrew T., SOF active duty LiT mentor
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LEGACY
LiT – LEADERS IN TRAINING LiT offers a five day off-site training experience. This annual event focuses on personal development and civic engagement. Increasing students’ exposure to diverse cultures through visits to museums and introductions to professionals dedicated to a life of service – whether that be the NYPD, government agencies or individuals engaged in humanitarian efforts.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS This year our students visited Washington, DC. and toured the Pentagon, other government agencies, the White House and Arlington Cemetery.
“This was an amazing opportunity to learn more about our government and how the people we visited help it run. It was nice of all of them to let us come visit while they were busy and working.” – LiT GOLD STAR son
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Working on one’s self. Working with others. As our LiT students develop a strong core, they become ready to embrace one another and mature as a group – ready to explore the larger world.
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2x
ACTIVE DUTY KIDS ATTENDING OUR SUMMER CAMPS
A great place to be a kid again. The young children who visit us need a safe
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environment where they can forget the world and just play. Our new playground is just the thing for that.
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More children visit us every year. Our new play area provides a safe, stimulating, multifaceted activity area where they can enjoy playful exploration and social learning. This year our summer workshops expanded beyond outdoor exploration to inner exploration and reflection through mindfulness practices – impacting more than 30 children.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS “I want to play there for a really long time. Forever and ever! It’s perfect!” – 5-year-old active duty daughter
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NEW CONSTRUCTION
KIDS PLAYGROUND
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Our GOLD STAR and SOF children pitched in too. And had as much fun as any of the
other kids ever will. Guided by the company who made the kit – and a local tree company – Our crew had the playground up in short order. It is now ready for years of service to all the children who visit The Station.
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4x
EXPANSION OF ART DISCIPLINES AVAILABLE TO ALL
Art is a lie that tells the truth. Sometimes what we feel isn’t so obvious. While art is not real life 22
exactly, it can help us get in touch with the often complex parts of being who and where we are.
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ART CENTER
A vital part of our mission is harnessing the power to see in new ways. The new art center provides an inviting, organized, well equipped space where participants can try out ideas, methods and avenues of self-expression. This facility expands our program beyond paper making to self-portraits, jewelry, ceramics, and painting. The results are simply stunning.
IN THE EXPERTS’ WORDS “The unique aspects of art help veterans find value and meaning in their creative expressions, engage in purposeful activities and improve the overall quality of their lives. Art provides an outlet for expression of feelings and experiences that are difficult to communicate verbally.” – “Use of Art Therapy in the Treatment of Veterans”, American Art Therapy Association.
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NEW CONSTRUCTION
ART CENTER
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Creative expression helps us get to know ourselves.
It provides an effective outlet for exploration and understanding of our deepest thoughts and feelings. Art helps us discover what we value and appreciate – and who we are.
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100%
REPORT QUALITY RECONNECTION WITH SELF AND FAMILY
America’s quiet warriors and their families operate under great stress. 26
The warrior on tour, the spouse operating as head-of-home, and the children who live without their parent – at a critical point in their development – deal with high expectations and difficult circumstances.
HOMECOMING
RESTORATION FOR SOF FAMILIES Our workshops help service members, spouses and children reconnect and re-open lines of communication through a variety of holistic, reflective activities. When they return to their community, our staff follows up with periodic check-ins to help them stay focused and on track.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS “I’m so grateful to have been able to participate in such an amazing experience! The “life time-out” was much needed, as was the self-reflection and growth. It was so nice to be able to work through thoughts and feelings with my spouse and learn more about “why I feel the way I do about certain things.” My personal growth during the 10 days was exponential.” 27
HOMECOMING
RESTORATION FOR SOF FAMILIES
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IN THEIR OWN WORDS “My experience at The Station gave me tools I can use for the rest of my life. We plan on using the values portion to identify and post our family values. We also intend to use “Designing Your Life” to plan out both short- and long-term life designs. This will help us have a solid baseline that dispels misconceptions we may have of each other and smooth out our transition. Thank you very much.”
All they asked of our nation was the chance to serve. So when they return
stateside, they deserve the same level of support they had while serving our nation.
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100%
IMPROVEMENT IN MANAGEMENT OF LIFE STRESSES REPORTED
Away from the daily grind, families rediscover one another. Our remote 30
location means smart phones, laptops and televisions are not a distraction. Families are able to refocus on relationships, beginning the process of repair, restoration and new growth as a unit.
RESTORATION FOR SOF FAMILIES
FAMILY FOUNDATION WORKSHOPS In 2017 The Station rolled out a new children’s curriculum. It mirrors the lessons offered to parents, including mindful practices, character strength curriculum, and understanding our gifts.
This method improves communication by articulating who we are and increases our inner strengths – CONTINUTED ON NEXT PAGE
IN THEIR OWN WORDS “The Station sets itself apart by exposing what is REALLY important (and ignored or glossed over by many other transition courses). I hope to contribute in the future to your great line-up of officers and mentors from the private sector. Thank you so much for helping me pause and think about what is REALLY important!”
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RESTORATION FOR SOF FAMILIES
FAMILY FOUNDATION WORKSHOPS promoting meaningful, intentional lives. It is an accepted, effective approach endorsed by respected professionals.
IN THE EXPERTS’ WORDS “Utilizing mindfulness in a family capacity showed increase in acceptance, emotional attunement, and compassion within the family relationships. In addition, mindfulness approaches offer improvement to quality of parent-youth relationships and behavioral management strategies, creating a protective family environment.” – Effects of the mindfulness-enhanced strengthening families program. Developmental Psychology
“Depression and anxiety are often found in children of deployed soldiers. Teaching character strengths has been found to increase happiness and confidence in children and youth. Kids who have been taught using strengths-based language have reported a greater sense of happiness, and a more authentic sense of self.” – Positive Education Using Strengths. Psych Central
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IN THEIR OWN WORDS “I can’t say enough good things about The Station Foundation. The program restored our marriage and truly helped us understand one another and communicate in a way we haven’t been able to in years. The activities, both for us as a couple and as a family were amazing. Not only did we grow closer as a family, we also created memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. God bless ya’ll and the work you are doing. We are so grateful.” – Ellen T, USASOC Spouse
IN THEIR OWN WORDS “I am beyond thankful for the knowledge and experiences I received while here!! It was life changing for me. All the classes and yoga practices really helped me figure out who I am as a person and what I want to become.”
Often a new battle begins as soon as a warrior returns state side. We give warrior families practical tools that help them understand their challenges and build strategies for going forward as individuals and strong, robust assets to their local community.
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100%
IMPROVEMENT IN BALANCING CARE FOR SELF AND OTHERS
We need to take care of ourselves so we can be there for others. 34
Being in a support role, we are taught to always put others before ourselves. The truth is we must learn to balance between caring for others and self-nurture.
RESTORATION FOR SOF FAMILIES
SPOUSE PERFORMANCE PROGRAMS Circumstances lead many spouses to sacrifice personal needs in order to serve others. Spouse Performance Programs help them see the value of honoring self as a priority. Spouses learn to balance support for others with care for self while they function as the at-home head of family.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS “My heart and mind were opened to new ideas and practices that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. The Station has truly impacted how I will move forward as a SOF spouse...With all we worked on Sunday to Tuesday, it was nice to have a few days to process before going home...No cell phone or internet played a huge role in us being able to quickly bond and spend quality time together. Well done, I plan to support The Station in any way I can.�
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RESTORATION FOR SOF FAMILIES
RESTORE Extended service strains relationships. RESTORE helps SOF members and their children rediscover and strengthen ties in natural teamwork situations. It is well established* that wilderness programs improve children’s self-efficacy and self-esteem. Our remote Montana location provides an environment conducive to accomplishing this goal.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS “...The time I was able to spend with my son during RESTORE was the best quality and most effective bonding I’ve had with him in the past 3 years. It was instructive and challenging in many ways, but I was able to go through and work on my relationship in a new way with him. We will be able to continue what we learned and build upon that in many ways.” 36 *The Wilderness Therapy Program: Empirical Studies of Its Effect with Adolescent in an Outpatient Study.
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2 NEW MINI WORKSHOPS IN MINDFULNESS AND CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
The heart of the wilderness.
Coming back from long tours of duty can be extremely difficult. The warrior has changed. The family has changed. The children are older and have continued to mature. RESTORE helps everyone reconnect to each other, catch up and forge ahead together.
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2x
EFFECTIVENESS BY INCLUDING SPOUSES IN TrAC
The skill set of the SOF couple put them in a unique position. SOF 38
couples have unique skill sets that can be highly effective in the private sector. TrAC prepares them to transition into the civilian sector with a more complete understanding of how to thrive after service.
RESTORATION FOR SOF FAMILIES
TrAC Transition Azimuth Check – TrAC – is a mentoring workshop designed to help SOF warriors and spouses re-connect with one another and establish a healthy team unit in the home prior to separating from the military. These couples then connect with high-level executives to establish meaningful relationships with select professionals in the private sector.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS “I really appreciated the chance to “come up for air.”...The opportunity to disconnect. To be with guys who are going through a similar stage in life...Review my values and beliefs to see how I can design my way forward, and receive mentorship from top-notch business leaders.”
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FINANCIALS
THE YEAR IN NUMBERS The Station continues to serve our SOF community families as they cope with the heavy burdens of worldwide service to our nation. As we broaden our grasp of their crucial needs, we hone our tactics. This year witnessed expanded efforts to meet our SOF children where they are. And equip them to enjoy lives of meaning and purpose. CONTINUTED ON NEXT PAGE
IN THEIR OWN WORDS “This was such an amazing experience. Such an incredible team. I wish everyone I know could experience this. The combination of classes, yoga, meditation and sharing with everyone. This was just such an incredible healing experience. 40
Thank you so much for all you have done for so many families!”
Our joy is watching families reunite and rediscover purpose. We walk this path with our warrior families, but they do the hard work of finding their homecoming.
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FINANCIALS
THE YEAR IN NUMBERS F I SC AL YE A R 2 0 1 7 TOTAL EXPENSES
$857,994.72
PROGRAMS
(87%)
$742,612.41
DEVELOPMENT
( 7%)
$ 57,178.29
GENERAL/ADMIN ( 6%)
$ 51,834.95
FISCAL YEAR 2018 STATUS (REFLECTS FINANCIALS PRIOR TO RECEIPT OF PENDING DONATIONS)
CURRENTLY AVAILABLE:
$861,458.83
PROJECTED OPERATING EXPENSES
$379,588.00
NEEDED TO COMPLETE 2018 PROGRAMS JUNE – 31 DECEMBER, 2018
AVAILABLE FUNDS AS OF 31 DECEMBER, 2018
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$481,870.83
100 % 0%
FISCAL YE AR 20 1 9 PROJECTED BUDGET
[$1,200,000.00]
AVAILABLE FUNDS
[$ 481,870.83]
100 % 0%
AS OF 31 DECEMBER, 2018
CONTRIBUTIONS PENDING
[$ 595,000.00]
FOR 2018 FY
AVAILABLE FUNDS
[$1,076,870.83]
AS OF 01 JANUARY, 2019
OUTSTANDING TO RAISE
[$ 123,129.17]
JO I N O UR TE AM CABIN NAMING $250,000 - $500,000 Sponsor cabin honoring GOLD STAR child’s Fallen Warrior parent
IN-KIND WORKSHOP SUPPORT Fund transportation (airfare, vehicle rentals), lodging or meals
UNDERWRITE HOMECOMING PROJECT $500,000 Supports approximately 175 SOF participants
VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME Starting in June of each year, The Station utilizes support from select volunteers to maintain Base Camp Jimmy (our home of operations) and provide support for summer workshops (currently four workshops slated between 15 June – 30 July, 2019)
SPONSOR ONE WORKSHOP
$10,000 - $75,000
HOST A FUNDRAISING EVENT If you are interested in introducing like-minded individuals in your circle to the work of The Station, please contact Shannon Stacy at sstacy@thestationfoundation.org
We strive to be good stewards.
Both with the opportunities and the resources that are entrusted to us. We do our best to use our time, energy and contributions wisely – to promote the health and readiness of our nation’s SOF community.
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406.763.5505
1627 WEST MAIN ST. SUITE #258 BOZEMAN, MT 59715
info@thestationfoundation.org
f www.facebook.com/TheStationFoundation
A CRUCIAL STOP ON THE JOURNEY HOME
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