Five & Thrive

Sometimes, holidays look a little different for military families. Thanksgiving might be spent far from loved ones, with friends who’ve become family, or even celebrating early or late to accommodate the mission. Flexibility and community are at the heart of it all, reminding us that home is wherever we’re together. How are you celebrating this year? #fiveandthrive

Ready to Start a New Chapter in Your Life? Chapter 36 can help dependents and veterans with service-connected disabilities plan the best use of their VA benefits. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Personalized Career Planning and Guidance (Chapter 36) program explores your abilities and interests and can help map a path to employment. See if you’re eligible at https://lnkd.in/geVgHEUR.

Elizabeth Rotenberry, a Marine Corps spouse and devoted caregiver, turned her challenging journey into a mission for change. After her husband’s service-related injury, Elizabeth confronted firsthand the gaps in support for military families and saw an opportunity to drive positive change. Now, through the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, she champions awareness and systemic improvements, connecting caregivers with essential resources and a strong network of support. Her story illuminates the resilience of military caregivers and inspires a brighter future for families everywhere. Read Elizabeth’s full story at https://lnkd.in/ei_upa-j.

Our partner The Exchange has earned a spot on Military Times’ Best for Vets Employers list for the 11th consecutive year! With top rankings in the government agency and retail categories, the Exchange is dedicated to supporting Veterans, military spouses, and family members through career opportunities. Discover how the Exchange is making a difference in Veteran and spouse employment at https://lnkd.in/gz4CBaX4.

“I didn’t retire. I’m still going.” This statement, made by Holly Vega, wife of a USMC veteran, shows that the motto “Semper Fidelis” or “Always Faithful” applies to Marines – and their spouses. For most, retirement means closure, but for Holly, whose husband recently retired after nearly three decades of service, this is where her journey begins. After spending 25 years moving every 2-3 years, Holly is looking forward to having her own career and focusing full time on the non-profit she co-founded, Military Hearts Matter. Read Holly’s full story at https://lnkd.in/ei_upa-j. Learn more about Military Hearts Matter at https://lnkd.in/efSM-qkp

The holidays can be an incredibly challenging time for grieving families, especially for the children of our fallen heroes. That’s why every December, the Gary Sinise Foundation hosts Snowball Express—a five-day experience for over 1,750 children of the fallen, along with their surviving spouse or guardian. Held annually at Walt Disney World? Resort, this special retreat offers these families time to honor their fallen loved ones while also providing a blend of fun entertainment and inspiring programs. It’s a chance for families to find comfort in one another’s support and create new memories, all while surrounded by the magic of Disney. As we enter the holiday season, let’s remember how vital programs like Snowball Express are in bringing hope and healing to those who have sacrificed so much. Learn more about how you can apply or volunteer to make a difference during the holiday season at https://lnkd.in/gEr8a8CB. #fiveandthrive #SnowballExpress #GarySiniseFoundation

Discover the healing power of art with The Veterans Art Project (VETART.org) – offering free, hands-on art classes in ceramics, glass, woodworking, and bronze casting, VETART brings military families and civilians together through creative experiences in a welcoming environment. Led by talented artists, these classes are held in world-class facilities and provide a welcoming space to build skills, foster wellness, and grow community bonds. Looking for flexibility? They also offer virtual classes! Learn more about this inspiring initiative at https://lnkd.in/gZgqisJF. #fiveandthrive

The COMPACT Act is a lifeline for veterans in crisis, providing critical access to emergency care — even for those who may not qualify for traditional VA services. Under this legislation, veterans experiencing suicidal thoughts can receive emergency treatment at any medical facility, with up to 30 days of inpatient and 90 days of outpatient care for challenges like homelessness, PTSD, and substance abuse. This is about ensuring every veteran has access to the urgent support they need, wherever they are. Learn more at https://lnkd.in/guVS7dN6 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs #fiveandthrive #healthcare

The Department of the Air Force Senior Leader Orientation Course (SLOC) brought together an incredible group of organizations, all focused on supporting military families and enhancing quality of life. Five & Thrive was honored to participate, sharing our core belief that Family Readiness IS Mission Readiness. Huge thanks to Flatter, Inc. for coordinating this platform and providing the opportunity for so many dedicated organizations to share their impactful work. Together, we’re building partnerships that strengthen military families and the Total Force. Easterseals DC MD VA | Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors | Air & Space Forces Association | Fisher House Foundation | Military Family Advisory Network | National Military Spouse Network | Partners in PROMISE | Military Child Education Coalition? | MCEC? | Boulder Crest Foundation

TRICARE Open Season is here from November 11 through December 10! This is your annual opportunity to review, update, or change your coverage. If you’re currently enrolled in TRICARE Prime or Select, this is your chance to ensure your plan best meets your family’s needs. Any changes you make will take effect on January 1, 2025 — so mark your calendars and take advantage of this time to prioritize your family’s health!