Military Family

Summer Events for Ohio Military Families

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We are so excited for our upcoming OMK Camps and Events throughout the summer. However, there are plently of other events happening throughout the summer for military families! We want families to make the most of summer 2024, so here are some events to put on your calendar for the upcoming months.

 

Pawsome Paintings June 9th, 2024 11:00 AM

From USO:

“You and your cherished canine companion are warmly invited to a unique and entertaining Dog Painting Event! Let your furry friend’s artistic talents shine as they create their own masterpiece on canvas. We’ll supply all the necessary materials, including a variety of paint colors you can pick from and everyone’s favorite treat – peanut butter.

This event promises to be a delightful opportunity for you and your furry family member to bond in a fun and creative way. Simply bring your dog along and watch as they unleash their inner artist!

Location: DSCC Mission Park at 401 N Yearling Rd. Whitehall, OH 43213

Eligibility: Dogs of active military members families, including Reserve and National Guard members. RSVP”

 

Deployed Families Dinner June 20th, 2024; 5:00 PM

From USO:

“Come to the USO Center on Wright-Patterson AFB for dinner and camaraderie while your loved one is deployed. Enjoy a catered meal, a visit from a therapy dog, and the support of your military community. Crafts or games for children. Joy for you! For currently serving military families – Active Duty, Guard, or Reserve. RSVP”

 

Military Appreication Night – Toledo Mud Hens June 27th; 7:05 PM

“The Mud Hens will once again honor the men and women who have served or are currently serving in each branch of the U.S. Armed Services. Join us for Military Appreciation Night on Thursday, June 27 as we pay tribute to the brave men and women who have proudly served our country. More info”

 

Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay Military Days July 1-5

From USO:

“We are would like to share some information regarding the highly anticipated Military Days with the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium and Zoombezi Bay. The discount to Zoombezi Bay is available to anyone. There are going to be coupons on cases of Pepsi that will be available at Kroger.

Mark your calendars for Columbus Zoo Military Family Days, set to occur from July 1-5. During this period, individuals presenting a valid military ID will be granted free admission, with the option to purchase additional tickets at a 50% discount. Tickets will be available for purchase at the parks ticket windows.

We appreciate your understanding with these changes. For any inquiries or further assistance, please feel free to contact ohiostaff@uso.org.”

 

Warrior Resiliency Celebration – Family Picnic July 20th 12:00 PM to 04:00 PM

“Have you served in the military or have a family member that has served? If so, we want to invite you to the Warrior Resiliency Celebration! Veterans, service members, and their families are invited to join the Warrior Resiliency Team at Greene County Veterans Services’ and Greene County Parks & Trails for the 2nd annual WRT Celebration! We’ll have loads of fun with Backyard Olympics, music, and a picnic with hot dogs, burgers, popcorn, beverages, and more! Don’t miss it! Attendees will also receive information on resources available to Veterans. Registration is requested for planning purposes. This picnic is FREE to attend but registration is requested for planning purposes. RSVP”

 

NEOPAT Military Family Engagement Day July 28th; 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

“Embark on a day of family fun and appreciation at the NEOPAT Military Family Engagement Day, set amidst the captivating backdrop of the Cleveland Zoo. It’s a time to celebrate the resilience and strength of our military families, who stand steadfastly behind our brave veterans. From interactive exhibits to engaging activities, every moment is designed to foster bonds and create lasting memories. This event is free to veterans and active military families. Click HERE to sign up.”

Events and Celebrations for National Veterans and Military Families Month

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November is National Veterans and Military Families Month. During this month we recognize and pay homage to the sacrifices and services of our nation’s veterans and military families.

Throughout November there are many events and celebrations across the state of Ohio for veterans and military families. Continue reading to learn more about the events offered for National Veterans and Military Families Month.

 

Veterans Day Ride – Akron, OH

November 7

“Join us for a heartfelt appreciation of duty and service! Depart from the Akron Depot and embark on a memorable 90 minute excursion. As you journey through the picturesque Cuyahoga Valley National Park, spanning 26 miles of track, take in the beauty of nature while honoring those who have bravely served our nation. This special train ride is exclusively for veterans and up to three family members, and it’s absolutely free!”

Learn More: https://www.cvsr.org/national-park-scenic-3/ 

 

USO Wright-Patt Coffee Connections-Playdate Edition – Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Center

Nov 8, 2023 10:00 am

“Military spouses are encouraged to gather at the USO to hang out with other mil spouses, meet new friends, enjoy coffee and tasty treats! Children welcome, but not required! 10am-12pm Wednesday, 8 Nov, USO Wright-Patterson.”

Learn More: https://ohio.uso.org/events/313 

 

Veterans Day Event & Expo – Canton, OH

Nov 11, 2023, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm 

“The day will include:

  • Free admission to all U.S. Service Members, National Guard members and Veterans plus one (1) guest.
  • Free admission for Blue Star Mothers and Gold Star Families.
  • A free commemorative Veterans Day pin, while supplies last.
  • 20% discount at the Hall of Fame Store.
  • The Hall will also present a Veterans Day Expo from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. featuring Veteran-based services and organizations.

A special giveaway of a Salute to Service helmet will be raffled off. Guests will receive a checklist at the point of entry — every booth must be visited to enter the raffle.”

Learn More: https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/62062/ 

 

Veterans Day Ceremony at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum – Columbus, OH

Sat. Nov 11, 2023, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm 

“Join us to honor and celebrate the selfless service of millions of Veterans who have defended our freedoms and way of life during our annual Veterans Day Ceremony.”

Learn More: https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/61777/ 

 

Veterans Day Ceremony – Beavercreek, OH

Saturday, November 11, 2023 2:00 p.m.

“Every year, the City of Beavercreek hosts a special Veterans Day Ceremony to honor the brave men and women who have served our country.”

Learn More: https://www.beavercreekohio.gov/810/Veterans-Day-Ceremony 

 

USO Ohio Dandelion Club Virtual Book Club – “Otto Tales – Today is Thanksgiving” – Virtual

Nov 18th, 2023 11:00 am

“Join us for the USO Military Child Youth Dandelion Club Book Club – Virtual -Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 11 am. This month’s book is “Otto’s Tales – Today is Thanksgiving” by Prager U. This program is for Military Kids (dependents) of currently serving (active, guard and reserve) military members. Please contact tkarabanovs@uso.org with any questions”

Learn More: https://ohio.uso.org/events/305 

 

For more events and celebrations, visit:

https://news.va.gov/125526/find-your-veterans-day-events/ 

https://ohio.uso.org/events 

Fall Craft For Families – Turkey Windsocks

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Happy Fall, ya’ll! As the weather gets cooler, you might be wondering what kind of activities can keep your kids entertained indoors. Check out this fun and cost efficient craft for your family!

thanksgiving kids craft turkey windsocks

(Image from Happiness is Homemade)

What you’ll need:

  1. Recycled Aluminum Can
  2. Brown Paint
  3. Craft glue
  4. Orange Paint Pen
  5. Large Googly Eyes
  6. Ribbons-Fall Colors
  7. Feathers, Felt, and/or Construction Paper-Fall Colors
  8. Scissors
  9. Masking Tape (optional)

Directions:

  1. Start by painting the Aluminum Can with the brown paint. 
  2. After the brown paint is dry, use your orange painter’s pen to draw an upside-down triangle as the turkey’s “beak.”
  3. Then, attach the googly eyes using your craft glue.
  4. Using your choice of feathers or construction paper, create the turkey’s “tail” by gluing the feathers/construction paper to the top of the back of the can on the inside rim. The can will have sharp edges, you can apply the masking tape there to protect your fingers.
  5. Cut 10-15 pieces of ribbon at about 18” in length.
  6. Apply a thick layer of craft glue to the inside rim at the bottom of the can, and then place your ribbon streamers. Allow the glue to dry.
  7. Cut out a red waddle (in either felt or construction paper). Use your craft glue to attach it beside the beak.
  8. Attach ribbon to the inside rim of the top sides of the can using craft glue to create a handle.

Adapted from: Happiness is Homemade. For more fun, Fall crafts, check out their website:

https://www.happinessishomemade.net/thanksgiving-kids-craft-turkey-windsocks/ 

5 Mental Health Resources for Military Families – Suicide Prevention Month

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Content Warning: Mention of mental health and suicide

 

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and more specifically National Suicide Prevention Week is September 10, 2023-September 16, 2023. This month is dedicated to raising suicide awareness and bringing together those who have been impacted by suicide.

According to the US Department of Defense, the suicide rate among active duty military troops in 2021 was 24.3 per 100,000. The DOD reports that there has been an increasing trend in suicide among active duty troops since 2011, with the exception of a decrease between 2020 and 2021. Even more, the DOD reports that in 2020, 202 military dependents died by suicide.

The DOD recognizes that suicide is a tragedy that changes families forever, which is why the DOD is taking diligent efforts to commit to suicide prevention in the military. In 2022, the DOD hired 2,000 prevention personnel, stationed across the world. 

Beyond DOD efforts, the resources for military troops and their families are abundant and accessible. In times of mental health crises, get help right away. The following are mental health/suicide prevention resources and support for individuals in times of need.

 

Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors

“TAPS is the national nonprofit organization providing compassionate care and comprehensive resources for all those grieving the death of a military or veteran loved one.”

https://www.taps.org/mission 

 

DOD’s Military OneSource

“Military OneSource from the Department of Defense is your 24/7 gateway to trusted information, resources and confidential help. When MilLife happens, it’s your “first line of support” — giving service members and military families tools to stay well and thrive.”

https://www.militaryonesource.mil/ 

 

Red Cross’ Military and Veterans Caregiver Network

“The Military and Veteran Caregiver Network (MVCN) offers peer-based support and services to connect those providing care to service members and veterans living with wounds, illnesses, injuries and/or aging.”

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/military-families/services-for-veterans/military-veteran-caregiver-network.html 

 

Veteran Suicide Prevention

“If you’re a Veteran in a mental health crisis and you’re thinking about hurting yourself—or you know a Veteran who’s considering this—get help right away. You’re not alone.”

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1j0Ktj2D-BF8pfMYODJmJ01y_ZiEWuUBNLZQc0ukFaPA/edit 

 

Military and Suicide Prevention-American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

“AFSP is committed to protecting those who protect us and believes that Veteran and military suicide prevention must continue to be a national priority.”

https://afsp.org/military-and-veteran-suicide-prevention/ 

 

References:

“Active Duty Suicide Rate Drops; Austin Says More Work Needed.” U.S. Department of Defense, www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3195429/active-duty-suicide-rate-drops-austin-says-more-work-needed/#:~:text=Fewer%20service%20members%20died%20by,said%20at%20a%20media%20briefing. Accessed 14 Sept. 2023. 

“Veteran and Military Suicide Prevention Resources.” Action Alliance, theactionalliance.org/veteran-and-military-suicide-prevention-resources. Accessed 14 Sept. 2023.

10 Scholarships For Military Kids

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College applications, scholarship submissions, and senioritis. All three are things that come along with changing leaves and the cool, fall weather. This timeless tradition is no different for military families. With that in mind, there are millions of dollars in scholarships allocated for military kids each year. This post details 10 scholarships exclusively for military kids that will help you prepare for the upcoming application season.

How can military kids take advantage of these funds? Apply! 

 

American Legion Legacy Scholarship

“The American Legion’s Legacy Scholarship provides college funding to children of post-9/11 veterans who died on active duty, or those who have a combined VA disability rating of 50 percent or greater.”

  • Application Timeline: January 1-April 1 2024

 

AMVETS Children/Grandchildren Scholarships

“This application is specific to graduating high school seniors (child or grandchild) of an Honorably Served Veterans, Active Duty and Guard/Reserves.”

  • Application Timeline: January 15 – April 30 2024

 

Fischer House Scholarships for Military Children

“The Scholarships for Military Children program is open to unmarried military dependent children under the age 23 who possess a valid Uniformed Services Identification (USID) card. In addition, a student’s parent(s)/sponsor(s) must be one of the following: active duty, reserve/guard, deceased, or retired from the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, or Space Force.”

  • Application Timeline: Opens mid-December 2023

 

Army Scholarship Foundation

“Applicants must: Be sons or daughters of regular active duty, active duty Reserve, or active duty National Guard U.S. Army members in good standing, OR Be spouses of serving enlisted regular active duty, active duty Reserve, or active duty National Guard U.S. Army members in good standing, OR Be sons or daughters of former U.S. Army members who received an honorable discharge or medical discharge, or who were killed while serving in the U.S. Army. Be high school seniors, high school graduates, or registered as undergraduate students at an accredited college or post high school vocational/technical institution.”

  • Application timeline: January 15-April 15 2024

 

Coast Guard Foundation Scholarships:

“Support for education is a cornerstone of our commitment to the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard and their families. Our scholarships are one of the ways we thank our brave men and women for their steadfast service to our nation, while also ensuring their family members can afford to reach their higher education dreams.”

 

Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation

“The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation was established to honor the service and sacrifice of Marines and their families. That’s why we are grateful for your tax-deductible donations. As our Nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships to military children, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation helps cover the cost of attending post-high school, undergraduate, and career and technical education programs. Every gift has a significant life-changing impact. With your support, we can make sure that no Marine family is left behind.”

 

The Folds of Honor Higher Education Scholarship

“We ensure that families who’ve sacrificed so much for our country and communities receive the education and opportunities they deserve. Whether it’s K-12th grade or higher education, we believe the cost of pursuing their academic dreams should not be an additional burden.”

 

Navy League of The United States Scholarships

“College should never be out of reach for a family member of the sea services. The Navy League Foundation guarantees this support by awarding scholarships to high school seniors who will attend college in the fall. Navy League Foundation scholarships are available to children and grandchildren of veterans or active duty sea service men and women, as well as members of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps.”

 

Children of Warriors National Presidents’ Scholarship

“It is important to acknowledge the sacrifices of our service members who preserve our freedom, but that is not enough. The sacrifices of the children of those who served should also be honored. Providing funds to assist these children so they can pursue higher education is a concrete way of showing how much we, as a nation, care.

The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors the Children of Warriors National Presidents’ Scholarship to support the children of our warriors. These scholarships are awarded to 15 students annually who excel in academics and volunteer in their communities.”

 

Wings Over America Scholarships

“Wings Over America Scholarship Foundation annually sponsors 50 scholarships to further the post secondary education of Navy dependents from the aviation community. Most scholarships are $5,000 and some are renewable.

Scholarships may be used for trade school certification, community college or four-year university/college undergraduate study and cover tuition only at an accredited institution.

If an applicant’s tuition is fully covered by other scholarships from their institution, ROTC, or Post 9/11 Bill/Yellow Ribbon benefits, they are ineligible to receive a scholarship. Students attending service academies are also ineligible.”

  • Application timeline: Opens October 1, 2023

 

Those are just 10 of the abundant selection of scholarships for military kids and dependents. Here are a few resources for students as the college application season progresses:

Busting the Myths About Scholarships – Military.com

https://www.military.com/education/money-for-school/learn-how-to-find-scholarships.html 

Scholarships for Military Dependents and Families

https://www.bestcolleges.com/resources/military-dependents-scholarships/ 

 

References:

Mullinix, Heather. “Scholarships for Military Dependents and Families: BestColleges.” BestColleges.Com, 17 Jan. 2023, www.bestcolleges.com/resources/military-dependents-scholarships/.

Embracing Pride: Support and Resources for LGBTQ+ Military Youth and Families

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June is a month of celebration, pride, and inclusivity as we honor Pride Month. At OMK we stand with and support our LGBTQ+ military youth and families. In this post we will highlight the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in the military and provide resources available for LGBTQ+ youth in Ohio.

Pride in the Military:

LGBTQ+ people have existed throughout history, including Ancient Greece and two-spirit people in Native American cultures. LGBTQ+ people are present in all parts of society – they are people we know and love, and even people who serve in our military.

In the United States less than 1% of citizens volunteer to serve in the armed forces, and 6.1% of military personal identify as LGBTQ+ according to research conducted in 2015 by Meadows, et. al.

LGBTQ+ individuals have been part of the military since its formation, with Lieutenant Colonel John Lauren being one of the earliest recorded in the Revolutionary War. Since then, many more LGBTQ+ individuals have served our country.

Despite their bravery, the stories of these individuals are often unknown or overshadowed due to the military’s history of anti-LGBTQ+ policies (Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, Transgender Military Ban) which led to the less-than-honorable discharges of an estimated more than 100,000 service members due to sexual orientation or gender identity (The Williams Institute, 2010).

Recent years have brought policy advancements for our LGBTQ+ service members; but there is more to be done to achieve military inclusivity.

Resources for LGBTQ+ Military Youth & Families in Ohio:

  • Community Centers:
    • The LGBT Center of Greater Cleveland, Equitas Health, and Stonewall Columbus provide a wide range of support and resources for LGBTQ+ individuals, including youth. These centers often offer counseling services, support groups, educational programs, and social events to create safe and inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ youth to connect, learn, and thrive.
    • Equitas Health along with PAPI work to offer PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), which prevents HIV, and STD testing free of cost to all Ohio residents with or without insurance.
  • Counseling Services and Safe Spaces:
    • Organizations like the Trevor Project provide mental health support, crisis intervention, and suicide prevention services specifically tailored to LGBTQ+ youth. They offer online chat and phone hotlines to provide immediate support and guidance.
    • Many insurance websites can assist in your search for counseling for LGBTQ+ individuals. OSU’s provider search can be found here.

Support for LGBTQ+ Individuals in the Military:

  • Modern Military Association of America offers legal services, advocacy, and community support to address issues faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the military.
  • Military Equal Opportunity (MEO) Offices throughout Ohio are responsible for ensuring equal opportunity, diversity, and inclusion within the military. They provide support, guidance, and resources for LGBTQ+ individuals who may face discrimination or harassment.

Social Opportunities and Connection:

  • Black, Out, & Proud serves as a resource for Black LGBTQ+ people.
  • Rainbow Sisters meets the first Wednesday of every month for social events and outreach programs for lesbian women over the age of 40.
  • The Kaleidoscope Youth Center in downtown Columbus offers social events, a discord server, drop-in hours, movie nights, D&D groups, and more for LGBTQ+ youth.
  • The Prim Youth Initiative in Dayton plans and hosts events for LGBTQ+ youth. They also offer support groups and a library.
  • PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) has chapters across Ohio that offer support and social groups for LGBTQ+ youth and their families.

References:

Meadows, S. O., Engel, C. C., Collins, R. L., Beckman, R. L., Cefalu, M., Hawes-Dawson, J., Waymouth, M., Kress, A. M., Sontag-Padilla, L., Ramchand, R., & Williams, K. M. (2015). Health Related Behaviors Survey: Sexual Orientation, Transgender Identity, and Health Among U.S. Active-Duty Service Members. RAND Corporation, RB-9955/6-OSD, 2018. As of May 26, 2023: https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_briefs/RB9955z6.html

The Williams Institute (2010). Discharges under the Don’t Ask/Don’t Tell policy. Retrieved from: https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/Discharges-DADT-Women-Race-Sep-2010.pdf

Marching Towards Success: National and Local Resources for Military Families

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Ohio Military Kids believes in helping our military youth to grow & succeed by providing them with any available resources. We know that military life can be challenging, and that is why we are committed to supporting the families and youth of those who have served our country. In this post, we’ll highlight three programs that are working to support military families: The National Military Family Association, Purdue University’s Military Teen Adventure Camps, and the six Troop and Family Assistance Centers throughout the state.

 

Continue reading Marching Towards Success: National and Local Resources for Military Families →

Blueberry-Lemon Energy Balls

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You’ll Need:

3/4 cup walnuts

1/2 cup pitted dates

1/4 cup dried blueberries

3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

2 tablespoon pure maple syrup

1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions:

  1. Process walnuts, dates, and blueberries in a food processor until chopped and combined – about 7 to 10 seconds.
  2. Add oats, maple syrup, and lemon juice.
  3. Continue processing until the mixture is smooth and thick. 20 to 30 seconds.
  4. Transfer the paste to a bowl, add lemon zest, and mix.
  5. Using your hands, form the mixture into 18 small balls.
  6. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Adapted from: https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/7964794/blueberry-lemon-energy-balls/

Scrabble Tile Zipper Pull

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You’ll Need:

  • Scrabble tiles
  • Popsicle stick
  • Binder clips
  • Glue-On Bail
  • Lanyard Clip
  • Heavy Duty GlueBackpack with attached scrabble tile zip pull

Directions

  1. Measure and trim a popsicle stick so all the tiles will fit.
  2. Add glue to one side of the stick and arrange tiles straight & evenly. Leave enough room at the top for the bail. Clamp binder clips to the tiles and let set for 2 hours.
  3. Apply the bail to the back using glue. Secure with a binder clip and let set for two hours.
  4. Attach the lanyard clip to the bail and clip it on your backpack!

No bail? Try using the silver piece from an extra small binder clip instead!

Adapted from: https://www.momtastic.com/family/diy-for-kids/448307-scrabble-tile-zipper-pull/

OMK’s Declassified Back to School Survival Guide

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Ohio Suicide Prevention Campaign – Be Present

A resource for parents, teens, and young adults who want to learn more about supporting their peers. Be Present hosts a wealth of information for parents and students about establishing healthy routines, taking care of yourself, and having difficult conversations with people you care about. Youth who are struggling can also find support on this site, or by texting ‘4HOPE’ to 741-741

https://bepresentohio.org/

Developing a Growth Mindset – Learning Heroes

Developing and practicing a Growth Mindset sets us up to succeed! Try out this interactive website – bealearninghero.org/growth-mindset/ – to learn more about developing and using a growth mindset.

Healthy Living – Start Talking!

Across Ohio organizations are working to prevent drug use among some of our most vulnerable citizens – our youth. Start Talking! provides tools to start the conversation with our youth about the importance of living healthy, drug free lives. https://starttalking.ohio.gov/

Developing Financial Literacy – Money as You Grow

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has a great set of tips and resources to help children develop important money management skills. The resources on this site are divided by age ranges from young children to teens & young adults. https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/money-as-you-grow/

Transition – From Elementary to Middle School

Is your young one preparing to take the huge step from elementary to middle school? Consider these tips from OSU:

 

Games and Apps – Educaplay and Photomath

This year, check out interactive games on Educaplay for content on subjects from Math, to English, to the Rivers of Europe. Educaplay.com

Could you or your student use assistance with math homework? Photomath was created by a father to help their children with math homework. Caregivers can review the step-by-step directions provided by the app with their children to solve almost any math problem! https://photomath.com/en/parents