In This Issue:
1. Big News is Coming December 15!
2. Giving Tuesday Success – $406K Raised!
3. Mercy Medical Angels: 1-Year of Impact
4. Happy Birthday Space Force!
5. Did You Know –Scholarships & Education Support Available
6. Supporting Organization Spotlight – NFCU & BWF
7. Smart Giving in 2025 and 2026
Big News is Coming December 15!
We have something exciting to share with you! On December 15, AFAS will unveil a major update to our identity – one that reflects who we are today and the military families we proudly serve.
Stay tuned for the announcement next week and be sure to visit our website and social media channels. You won’t want to miss it!
Giving Tuesday Success – $406K Raised!
This year, we once again teamed up with our sister military relief societies – Army Emergency Relief (AER), Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA), and Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) – to raise crucial funds for military families through our #MakeGivingYourSuperpower campaign for #GivingTuesday.
Together we raised more than $406K to support service members and families across every branch. This is an amazing 33% increase from the nearly $305K raised last year. And thanks to Lockheed Martin’s incredible contribution, that impact was doubled!
This momentum matters, because every dollar raised helps provide financial assistance, education support, and essential resources to those who sacrifice so much for our nation. Thank you for standing with them!
Mercy Medical Angels: 1-Year of Impact
We’re proud to celebrate one year of partnership with Mercy Medical Angels, an organization that provides free, life-saving medical transportation for our Airmen and Guardian families.
Over the past year, we’ve provided 308 trips totaling nearly $92K, helping families reach essential medical treatments, behavioral health care, rehabilitation services, and more.
We’re deeply grateful for this partnership, which ensures our military families never face urgent medical challenges alone.
Happy Birthday Space Force!
On December 20, we celebrate the 6th birthday of the United States Space Force!
To all the Guardians serving today, and the families who support them, thank you for your dedication, innovation, and service to our nation. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to celebrate, you can make a gift supporting Guardian families at afas.org/donate.
Did You Know – Scholarships & Education Support Available
Scholarships Open in January
Starting January 2026, students pursuing a 2- or 4-year college degree can apply for need-based tuition assistance through our Hap Arnold Education Grant Program for the 2026–2027 academic year.
Designed for the children and spouses of Airmen and Guardians, this grant considers family income, educational costs, and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) details to tailor awards to each student’s financial needs.
More information will be available in early January at afas.org.
Spouses: Tuition Funding Still Available
Financial assistance is still available for spouses looking to advance their education or career skills. The Bee Arnold Spouse Tuition Program is still accepting applications and offers up to $2,500 for entry-level job training or part-time undergraduate studies.
Eligible recipients may also receive additional childcare assistance to help cover costs while attending classes. Apply today at afas.org.
Supporting Organization Spotlight – NFCU & BWF
This month, we proudly spotlight Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) and the Bob Woodruff Foundation (BWF) for their continued commitment to supporting our military families.
Through NFCU’s new $2 million set of grants, with BWF serving as the grant manager, significant support has again been awarded to all four military relief organizations: Air Force Aid Society, Army Emergency Relief, Coast Guard Mutual Assistance, and Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.
We’re honored to be part of this united effort and deeply grateful for their partnership in empowering and uplifting our military families.
Smart Giving in 2025 and 2026
As 2025 comes to a close, many supporters are considering how to make the greatest impact with their year-end giving. Whether through a traditional cash gift, a donation of stock or other appreciated assets, a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF), or a recurring monthly gift, each option can help you maximize both your impact and potential tax benefits.
Beginning in 2026, several changes to charitable giving laws will take effect, impacting itemized deductions, AGI thresholds, and giving limits. For many donors, 2025 may be the final year to take full advantage of today’s more favorable giving rules, making now an ideal time to consider your charitable giving strategy.
Wishing you and your family a safe and joyous Holiday Season – and a Happy New Year!