In This Issue:
- Scholarship Applications Now Open for the 2025-2026 Academic Year
- Over $74K Raised Celebrating the Space Force’s 5th Birthday
- Did You Know – AFAS Now Offers $150 for Baby Essentials
- New Board Member Announcement – Lt Gen (Ret) John Dolan
- Supporting Organization Spotlight – First Command
- Create a Legacy of Support with a Beneficiary Designation
Scholarship Applications Now Open for the 2025-2026 Academic Year
Students pursuing a 4-year college degree can apply for need-based tuition assistance through our Hap Arnold Education Grant program. The application window for the 2025-2026 academic year is open now through April 30th.
This scholarship is designed to assist the children and spouses of Airmen and Guardians pursue their academic goals. Award amounts are tailored to individual financial needs, taking into account family income, education costs, and information from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Those who apply for the Hap Arnold Grant will also be considered for additional educational support opportunities, including the Merit Scholarship, Grit Scholarship and interest-free loan programs.
To review the eligibility criteria and required documents, and to apply, visit afas.org/haparnoldgrant.
Over $74K Raised Celebrating the Space Force’s 5th Birthday
Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating the Space Force’s 5th birthday on December 20th! Through the incredible generosity of our donors and the support of First Command’s $25K match, we raised over $74K to directly support Guardians, Airmen and their families.
As a special thank you, the first 50 donors who gave $100 or more will receive an exclusive commemorative coin to honor this milestone. This achievement and your ongoing support ensures we can continue to honor and uplift those in uniform.
Did You Know – AFAS Now Offers $150 for Baby Essentials
Starting January 1, 2025, AFAS increased the monetary gift from $100 to $150 for those that complete the Bundles for Babies class. This class is for active-duty families expecting a child or with a newborn and teaches essential parenting and financial skills to help them prepare for their growing families. It’s also a great opportunity to connect with other parents on base.
Contact your Military & Family Readiness Center to find out if this program is offered at your base and how to register.
New Board Member Announcement – Lt Gen (Ret) John Dolan
We are proud to announce the appointment of Lt Gen (Ret) John Dolan to the AFAS Board of Trustees. With decades of distinguished military service, including leadership roles overseeing operations for millions of personnel worldwide, and his current role as a senior leader at Lockheed Martin, he brings unparalleled expertise and strategic insight to our Board. His experience and leadership will undoubtedly strengthen our efforts to continue serving our Airmen, Guardians, and their families.
Please join us in welcoming Lt Gen (Ret) Dolan to the AFAS team!
Supporting Organization Spotlight – First Command
We are proud to spotlight First Command Financial Services. For over 60 years, First Command has been dedicated to helping service members and their families plan for and pursue financial security.
As a valued partner of AFAS, they’ve demonstrated incredible generosity by matching contributions for both the Air Force and Space Force Birthday celebrations this year, contributing a total of $50K. Their ongoing support plays a vital role in helping us provide critical resources and assistance to Airmen, Guardians, and their families.
Thank you, First Command, for your support and dedication to those who serve!
Air Force Aid Society is not affiliated with First Command Financial Services, Inc., or any of its affiliated entities. First Command Financial Services, Inc. and its related entities are not affiliated with, authorized to sell or represent on behalf of or otherwise endorsed by any federal employee benefits programs referenced, by the U.S. government, or the U.S. Armed Forces.
Create a Legacy of Support with a Beneficiary Designation
Have you considered how you can make a lasting impact? Naming Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) as a beneficiary is one way to create a meaningful legacy. Your future gift empowers AFAS to continue our mission and provide critical financial assistance directly to Airmen, Guardians, and their families.