In This Issue:
- Giving Tuesday #missionGIVE Update
- Recent Event Highlights – Honoring & Supporting our Military Community
- Celebrate the Space Force’s Birthday
- Tuition Assistance for Spouses Still Available
- BBB Report – Marketplace Challenges Facing the Military Community
- Supporting Organization Spotlight – NFCU & BWF
- Make an Impact Before Year End
Giving Tuesday #missionGIVE Update
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, AFAS raised over $114,000 during this year’s #missionGIVE campaign! These funds will directly support programs and services for Airmen, Guardians, and their families. A special thanks to Lockheed Martin for their generous matching gift.
This accomplishment was part of a combined effort by the four military aid societies – Air Force Aid Society, Army Emergency Relief, Coast Guard Mutual Assistance, and Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society – to raise critical funds for our military communities. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who made this success possible. Together, we are making a lasting impact!
Learn more about this initiative here.
Recent Event Highlights: Honoring & Supporting our Military Community
This November, AFAS participated in two impactful events dedicated to honoring and supporting our military community:
- Military Appreciation Breakfast Panel (Washington, DC)
On November 11, Booz Allen Hamilton hosted an event honoring past and present service members and their families. AFAS CEO Ed Thomas joined Army Emergency Relief CEO Michael Grinston, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society COO Dawn Cutler, and Coast Guard Mutual Assistance CEO Brooke Millard in an impactful conversation. The discussion highlighted the importance of community, connection, and our unwavering support for service members and their families.
- Air Force Wounded Warrior Program (Maryland)
On November 18, AFAS Chief Operating Officer Kris McBride and Director of Communications Chad Britton participated in the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program CARE Fair in National Harbor, MD. They connected with over 120 Warriors, Caregivers, and Veterans to share critical resources available through AFAS. Additionally, AFAS sponsored the Closing Celebration lunch at Joint Base Andrews on November 22, further demonstrating our commitment to those who serve and have served.
We’re honored to have participated in these incredible events and look forward to continuing our outreach in 2025!
Celebrate the Space Force’s 5th Birthday with First Command
On December 20, we celebrate the 5th birthday of the U.S. Space Force, honoring the Guardians who protect and advance our nation’s capabilities. To mark this milestone, First Command has once again pledged to match donations up to $25,000. We are grateful to First Command for their continued dedication to improving the financial futures of our Nation’s military families.
Join us in celebrating this special occasion by donating now through December 20th and double your impact!
Tuition Assistance for Spouses Still Available – Apply Now!
Funding is still available for Air Force and Space Force spouses pursuing higher education. The Bee Arnold Spouse Tuition Program offers spouses up to $2,500 to pursue entry-level job training or part-time undergraduate degrees.
As an added benefit, recipients are also eligible for a childcare grant to help cover some of the costs of childcare needed to pursue their education.
Don’t miss this opportunity. Learn more and apply today at afas.org.
BBB Report – Marketplace Challenges Facing the Military Community
Our friends at the BBB Institute recently released their Marketplace Challenges Facing the Military Community Report. The report highlights prevalent scams and fraudulent activities targeting the military community and provides actionable recommendations to safeguard against these threats.
Supporting Organization Spotlight – NFCU & BWF
In November, Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) announced a multi-year partnership with the Bob Woodruff Foundation (BWF) and the four military aid societies: Air Force Aid Society, Army Emergency Relief, Coast Guard Mutual Assistance, and Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.
This collaboration includes a $2 Million annual investment across the four aid societies, strengthening our shared commitment to providing financial assistance and critical resources to service members and their families. AFAS is proud to be part of this unified effort to serve those who serve our nation.
Thank you, Navy Federal and BWF, for your dedication and support. Learn more about the partnership here.
Make an Impact Before Year End
As the year draws to a close, there’s still time to make a difference. Your end-of-year gift provides vital resources and creates positive change beyond the holiday season.
Every gift, no matter the size, helps us continue our mission supporting Airmen, Guardians, and their families when they need it most.
Learn how you can tailor your giving at: https://afas.giftlegacy.com/