Ep. 67 The Unexpected Way Military Kids Are Leading Change with NMFA

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery.

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Court Ogilvie, the Chief Operating Officer of the National Military Family Association (NMFA) to explore the organization’s advocacy for military families, spouse employment programs, and the impact of Operation Purple Camp.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are.

Ep. 67 – The Unexpected Way Military Kids Are Leading Change with NMFA

The National Military Family Association, established in 1969, stands as the voice for military families, working tirelessly to enhance their quality of life. With roots in advocacy, NMFA was founded by military spouses who were determined to address inequities affecting widowed military families during the Vietnam War. Today, their mission has expanded to include various programs that support military spouses, children, and the overall well-being of military families.

Programs For Military Families That Make a Difference

During the episode, Court speaks passionately about NMFA’s various initiatives:

1. Spouse Scholarships and Employment Support: NMFA provides scholarships designed to help military spouses further their careers, acquire certifications, and gain clinical practice. As military spouses face an unemployment rate of 21%, Court emphasizes the importance of creating employment opportunities and addressing underemployment.
2. Operation Purple Camps: These week-long sleepaway camps offer military children a chance to connect, share experiences, and enjoy a much-needed break from the responsibilities they often undertake due to a parent’s deployment. The camps also provide a supportive community for parents.
3. Holistic Support for Families: NMFA takes a comprehensive approach by addressing diverse needs such as childcare, financial security, and education. They aim to fill the programming gaps and provide continuous support throughout the military life journey.

Challenges Facing Military Families

Court highlights key challenges currently facing military families:

• Teen Well-being: With nearly 50% of military teens experiencing struggles, NMFA is committed to addressing mental health and support needs.
• Financial Security: Advocating for policy changes like pay raises and full base housing allowances are essential measures, according to NMFA.
• Food Insecurity: As Court emphasizes, the issue of food insecurity ties deeply into financial challenges, underscoring the interconnectedness of these issues.

Why NMFA’s Mission Matters

Throughout the conversation, the importance of military community and advocacy remains a central theme. Court’s personal stories—from military camps to his own experiences as a military kid—reveal the indelible impact NMFA has on fortifying the lives of those who serve. With a focus on collaboration and empowerment, NMFA is dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of military families.

Listeners can learn more by visiting NMFA’s website at militaryfamily.org to learn more, support, or engage with the organization. As Court aptly puts it, "Together we're stronger." This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity that define military families and the organizations that support them.

Military Minute

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

● Last episode’s Military Minute: In what year did the military ball originate?

● Answer: 1895

● This week’s Military Minute question: What is the name of the university and the mascot for the university where court graduated with a bachelor in science?

● Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

● Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

● After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

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