The top concerns often reported by military service members are time away from family (and the impact that separation has on their family), their children’s education and childcare, and frequent relocations. The USO in Arizona assists with these concerns through a myriad of impactful programs and events. This $25,000 gift from the Thunderbirds Charities will be used to support local service members and their families through the USO’s resiliency-building programs. These programs include military spouse support programs, youth programming for pre-school and school-aged military children, military family days, baby showers for expecting service members and spouses, and programming for single service members. Military families face many unique challenges because of their military service.

“With military families relocating every two to three years,” said Tim Mullin, Executive Director, USO Intermountain. “Military children also face the challenges of life- altering moves in their formative years, repeatedly adjusting to new peer groups. To help even the youngest members of military families overcome these obstacles, USO hosts a multitude of children’s events for youth of all ages, designed to build resiliency, improve education, and build a sense of community.”

Youth programs include art projects, pre-school power hours, sporting events, learning new skills, and special educational outings. To further assist with these transitions, the USO in Arizona also provides pre- and post- deployment family events, giving families a no-pressure place to connect through fun activities. In addition to serving transitioning families, the USO hosts events for military families to gather for complimentary activities and meals.

United Service Organizations, Inc. (USO)

This grant is part of the Spring 2025 cycle. View a list of all Recent Grantees.